Genshin Impact: Villain Impact

"Also, you can take a bath."

Lumine nodded. "Finally, a hot bath."

For some reason, Lucas felt as if he was being calculated against.

...

Late at night.

"Creak…"

With a faint sound, Signora gently pushed open the wardrobe door. Having stood inside for so long, her legs were somewhat numb.

She looked at the anonymous letter in her hand. Due to the urgency earlier, she hadn't had the chance to put it down.

Tiptoeing, she moved to the bedside, intending to place the letter on the nightstand. However, worried Lucas might not notice it, she deliberated for a moment before deciding to place it directly on his chest.

Gazing at his sleeping face, Signora felt a mixture of emotions.

"This will truly be the last time I see you." The usually cold and ruthless eighth Harbinger gently brushed Lucas's cheek with her fingertips. Who would have thought that her face could show such tender affection? "Goodbye… no, let's not meet again."

The window was right next to the bed. To minimize noise, Signora had to crouch her tall frame, moving like a sleek panther as she climbed onto the bed toward the window.

Fortunately, Lucas had the habit of sleeping with the window open; otherwise, someone as perceptive as him would definitely have woken up to the noise at such close range.

The window wasn't a side-hinged one but a vertical sliding type, with a noticeable frictional sound when being opened.

Signora placed her hands on the windowsill and leaned her upper body out. However, at that moment, a large figure blocked her way.

It was none other than the plump orange cat Lucas had fed earlier.

This cat seemed rather loyal, apparently patrolling in gratitude for being fed. Spotting a stranger sneaking out of its benefactor's home, the cat immediately hissed at Signora.

"Get lost…"

Signora hissed in a low tone. Her usual killing intent would have made any ordinary animal instinctively back off. However, the orange cat was unfazed. With a powerful leap, it jumped onto the windowsill and nudged the window latch closed with its weight.

With a "thud," the window slammed shut, trapping Signora's slender waist between the frame.

Signora winced in pain but dared not make a sound, quickly covering her mouth with her hand.

To make matters worse, her body was now half inside and half outside, stuck in the window frame.

The orange cat, meanwhile, gave Signora a disdainful glance, flicked its thick tail, and sauntered off leisurely.

"Damn you, fat cat…" Signora gritted her teeth. "Don't let me catch you, or… huh?"

Suddenly, Signora felt something pressing against her waist.

She quickly turned her head and saw Lucas kneeling behind her. Through the dusty glass of the window, she could make out that his eyes were still closed.

Was he sleepwalking?

Or was he doing this on purpose?

Uncertain of the truth, Signora didn't dare to make a sound. Despite the late hour, there were still a few scattered passersby visible on the street.

If she were seen in this position, her reputation as a Harbinger would be completely ruined.

In fact, Lucas wasn't sleepwalking, nor was he fully awake. He was in a half-dreaming state.

Someone of his level of ability often developed a form of self-defense mechanism, where even in unconscious sleep, they reacted to changes in their surroundings.

Of course, the response depended on the situation. If an enemy approached, Lucas would instinctively enter combat mode to defend himself.

But if it was…

A Lady stuck in the window?

The outcome was self-evident. In his semi-conscious state, Lucas was experiencing a vivid dream where he was back in the simulator, engaged in a Harbinger sparring session with Signora.

The actions in his dream and reality were strangely synchronized.

As for Signora, she could only cover her mouth with one hand and hold onto the windowsill with the other, desperately maintaining her balance.

Damn it, you'd better really be sleepwalking, or else…

I swear… I won't let you off!

"Ugh…"

At that moment, a groggy Lumine stumbled out of the room, rubbing her sleepy eyes and mumbling, "Bathroom…"

However, upon witnessing the scene in front of her, Lumine's eyes widened. After a brief three-second pause, she silently turned around and returned to her room.

Then, she got back into bed, pulled the blanket over her head, and muttered to herself, "It's just a dream, just a dream…"

...

The next morning.

"Time to wake up!"

Lucas stretched lazily but was bewildered to find himself waking up leaning against the windowsill.

Didn't I fall asleep properly in bed?

Since when did my sleeping posture get this bad?

"Strange, why is the window closed?" Lucas reached to lift the window for some fresh air but noticed a strip of deep red silk stuck beneath it, fluttering lightly in the morning breeze.

---

"What is this…?"

Lucas rubbed the silk between his fingers, finding it smooth and luxurious, clearly made from high-quality fabric. He had no idea how it ended up here.

Maybe it was blown in by the wind, or perhaps that fat orange cat brought it.

Thinking no more of it, he casually tucked the silk away. What he didn't notice was that a letter, bearing faint marks from being crushed and rubbed, had slipped into the gap in his bedframe.

"Lumine, Paimon, wake up." Lucas knocked lightly on the door of the inner room. "It's almost time to meet up."

About half a minute later, the door opened slightly, revealing Lumine's face. For some reason, she looked utterly drained, with pronounced dark circles under her eyes.

"Are… you okay?" Lucas asked in confusion. "Didn't sleep well?"

"It's… nothing…" Lumine replied with a somewhat ambiguous gaze, mumbling, "Just had a really strange dream I haven't recovered from yet."

In contrast, Paimon appeared full of energy, placing her hands on her hips as she asked, "What kind of dream was it?"

"It was…" Lumine glanced at Lucas, her mind involuntarily replaying the scene from last night. Shaking her head, she said, "Two Hilichurls wrestling."

She still couldn't tell whether last night's events were real or a dream. All she knew for sure was that it was… unforgettable.

"Two Hilichurls wrestling? That's definitely odd." Lucas chuckled awkwardly. "Don't dwell on strange dreams. Let's have breakfast and then head out. My treat today."

"Yay!" Paimon cheered, throwing up her hands. "From now on, you're officially Paimon's second-best companion!"

"Paimon…" Lumine's heart warmed at this comment.

It seemed this little glutton did have a conscience after all. She wasn't pampering her in vain.

"Sweet Madame and Mondstadt Specialty Meat Pies are tied for 1st place!" Paimon added smugly.

"Give me back my sentimentality!" Lumine pressed her thumbs into Paimon's temples and gave them a sharp twist.

"Help… help me!"

Paimon's cries became part of Mondstadt's morning symphony.

Apart from the still-drowsy Lumine, Signora who had recently "escaped" the scene, and the fearless fat orange cat, perhaps no one would ever know how intense last night's "battle" had been.

At Mondstadt's city gate, the dragon subjugation squad had assembled.

The group was small; against an enemy like the Stormterror, sheer numbers were meaningless. Ordinary Knights of Favonius couldn't even pierce its tough scales. The primary fighters remained the elite Vision bearers.

Acting Grand Master Jean, Vanguard Captain Eula, and Cavalry Captain Kaeya were the main forces from the Knights of Favonius. Klee, though eager to join, was firmly turned down by both Lucas and Jean.

Another potent fighter, Chief Alchemist Albedo, was unfortunately absent from Mondstadt and thus unable to participate.

As for external support, aside from Lucas and Lumine, the team also included a handful of volunteer adventurers. While some civilians had expressed a willingness to help, Jean's conscientious nature and sense of duty made it impossible for her to allow noncombatants to risk their lives.

Even with this lineup, it was clear that Mondstadt's forces were stretched thin.

If a similar event occurred in Liyue, there wouldn't even be a need for a subjugation squad. Someone like Ganyu could probably handle it solo and still make it back in time for lunch.

Of course, no nation would easily request foreign aid unless absolutely necessary. Despite its relatively weaker military, Mondstadt needed to maintain its dignity. The last time they had sought assistance from the Fatui to deal with the dragon Ursa, Mondstadt's diplomacy with Snezhnaya suffered greatly. Jean was determined not to let history repeat itself.

"Kind sir, would you like to buy a charm? It will bless your journey with safety."

Just as the squad was preparing to depart, an elderly woman with a hunched figure unexpectedly approached Lucas. In her gnarled hands was a bamboo basket filled with exquisitely crafted charms.

Given Lucas's current level of power, it was nearly impossible for someone to approach him unnoticed. Yet, this old woman seemed to have appeared out of nowhere.

"Thank you for your blessings," Lucas said with a smile, not overthinking it. "I'll buy one."

"Take this one." The old woman handed him a charm, her raspy voice soft. "It contains Qingxin flowers. Wearing it will clear your mind and brighten your vision. It's just 500 Mora."

Lucas caught a glimpse of her arm as she handed over the charm. Strangely, the exposed part of her arm appeared smooth and pale, inconsistent with her weathered hands and wrinkled face.

When he snapped out of his thoughts, however, the old woman was already walking away.

"Don't stare; it's just a disguise," said a short Knight of Favonius standing beside Lucas. The voice was familiar, and when the knight lifted their visor, a pair of mischievous green eyes met Lucas's.

"Venti?" Lucas was taken aback. "What's with the outfit?"

"Shh!" Venti hastily lowered the visor again, whispering, "A few nights ago, I got mistaken for a lyre thief and ended up locked up by that little girl from the Lawrence family. I had to use some tricks to escape."

Although Venti didn't elaborate, Lucas could easily guess what kind of tricks he meant.

"So, I'm keeping a low profile," Venti added. "This time, I'm joining you to the ruins of the Stormterror's Lair. If possible, I want to make one last attempt to awaken Dvalin's consciousness."

Stormterror Dvalin had once been a companion of the Anemo Archon. Clearly, Venti wasn't ready to give up on him.

"Understood…" Lucas sighed. "I'll cover for you, but don't blow your cover."

"Thank you, my dear friend!" Venti said gratefully. "I'll be sure to repay you someday!"

With what?

Given how he and Morax, two gods, together couldn't scrape up a single Mora, Lucas wasn't holding his breath.

"No time for chatting! Get ready to move!" Eula approached, casting a suspicious glance at Venti. "Who are you? I don't think I've seen you before."

Due to her background, Eula wasn't particularly close to other members of the Knights of Favonius. Aside from her reconnaissance squad, she didn't know many others. But given the rigorous recruitment standards of the Knights, the sight of this scrawny, ill-fitting "knight" made her naturally suspicious.

"Hey." Eula's wariness grew as Venti remained silent. "Take off your helmet. Let me see your face."

If Eula recognized Venti, not only would he fail to help with the mission, but he'd probably end up back in custody.

In the nick of time, Lucas threw an arm around Venti's shoulders and laughed. "You forgot? This is Dewin, a new recruit. He was the one who helped me find my way when I visited the headquarters the other day."

Venti immediately nodded fervently, playing along.

Eula stroked her chin thoughtfully before frowning. "Stand straighter and puff out your chest. Remember, all eyes will be on us during this expedition."

Apart from the citizens of Mondstadt, it was almost certain that the Fatui would be watching from the shadows.

"Eula!" Lucas called out, stopping her as she was about to leave. Patting her shoulder, he smiled. "Do your best this time. If you can help end the dragon crisis, people will change their opinion of you."

Eula's cheeks turned slightly pink, but she quickly masked her reaction with feigned indifference. "Hmph, I don't care what others think of me!"

With that, she turned to leave, muttering under her breath, "As long as you keep watching me, that's enough."

With the sound of a horn, the city gates creaked open. The dragon subjugation squad began their march.

At the front, Jean, clad in her dashing riding outfit, raised her voice with conviction: "We shall win this battle! Victory or nothing!"

---

"This battle will be a swift victory—returning undefeated!"

It didn't need an elaborate speech; these eight words were enough to showcase their determination.

"No wonder Varka chose her as Acting Grand Master," murmured Venti, who was standing beside Lucas. "Jean and that woman are so alike."

"That woman?" Lucas caught the hint and asked, "Are you talking about Vennessa?"

"You actually know about her?" Venti looked surprised. "For an outsider, it seems you've studied Mondstadt's history quite well."

"I've learned a little," Lucas replied with an awkward chuckle.

A little? More like he had rewritten it.

In the simulator—or rather, in a parallel world—Vennessa had been killed by his own hand.

At the end of the procession, another knight wearing a helmet like Venti's quietly fixed their gaze on Lucas's back, moving forward as the group marched.

"Finally, they've set off," a voice said from a nearby terrace.

The Doctor, calmly enjoying breakfast, observed the departing squad and smirked. "Let's hope they move quickly. I can hardly wait."

While most Mondstadt citizens dined on simple fare like bread and bacon for breakfast, the Doctor's table bore a large plate of steak, cooked to a rare degree. Each slice carved by her knife oozed faint traces of blood.

Beside her stood the "modified weapon" Ursa, wearing a mask over her mouth. Her sharp eyes were fixated on the steak.

 "You want some, don't you?" The Doctor's voice was soft yet cold. "Sorry, not yet. Only by keeping you hungry can you achieve maximum combat effectiveness."

Her words were followed by a cruel smile as she gestured toward the squad in the distance. "See those Knights of Favonius? If you want to eat, go feast on them."

But beneath her mask, Ursa muttered faintly, her voice muffled and hesitant. "Human flesh… cannot be eaten…"

Hearing this, the Doctor's casual demeanor instantly vanished, replaced by a chilling expression.

"You dare to have your own will?" the Doctor hissed "You are my property. My will is your will. I can modify you, and I can destroy you. Do you understand?"

Like a lifeless puppet, Ursa whispered, "I will always obey the orders of 'Master.'"

"That's better." The Doctor's face transformed again, this time into a sinister grin. Stroking Ursa's cheek gently, she cooed, "Don't waste the effort I've spent on you these past few years."

....

The Stormterror's Lair was not close to Mondstadt. A lone rider at full speed would need at least half a day to reach it, let alone a squad of hundreds.

According to their plan, the subjugation squad would camp midway for the night, regrouping to resume their march in the morning.

The journey had been uneventful. Although monsters frequently roamed the wilderness, the closer they were to the main roads, the fewer monsters appeared. And against such a well-equipped force, any monsters they encountered fled long before posing a threat.

Still, a few hapless Hilichurl bands crossed their path, attempting to rob the squad. They were swiftly dealt with, becoming practice dummies for the younger knights.

By nightfall, the squad had reached their designated campsite near a modest-sized lake.

Dinner was nothing fancy. Along with their rations, some of the knights had managed to catch fish to supplement the meal.

At moments like these, many couldn't help but miss Klee. If she were here, at least the fish would be plentiful and cooked to perfection.

Interestingly, Dawn Winery, one of Mondstadt's most prestigious estates, was just a few kilometers away. Staying there would have spared them the trouble of setting up camp, allowing them to enjoy a hearty meal and rest properly.

However, Kaeya's suggestion to do so had been vetoed by Jean. She didn't want to trouble their esteemed predecessor, Diluc. Furthermore, given his tendency to avoid the Knights of Favonius, it was unlikely he would welcome them.

Lucas stood by the lake, staring at the shimmering water in a daze.

The uncertainty of the mission weighed heavily on him, and a sense of unease gnawed at his mind.

"Good evening."

Jean's voice startled him. She had approached silently, smiling warmly. "Why are you standing here all alone?"

"Captain Jean?" Lucas scratched his head awkwardly. "Maybe I'm just nervous about tomorrow's battle with the Stormterror."

"Actually…" Jean hesitated, her gaze faltering slightly. "You don't need to call me 'Captain Jean.' Just call me Jean, like you do with Eula."

"Like Eula?" Lucas pondered aloud. "But you and Eula are entirely different."

So, it's true, Jean thought to herself, lowering her head in slight disappointment. In Lucas's eyes, she really wasn't the same as Eula.

"Eula never hides her feelings. She's always straightforward, daring to love and hate openly," Lucas continued. "But you… you're always wearing a mask, constrained by your identity. You're the eldest daughter of the Gunnhildr clan, the Acting Grand Master of the Knights of Favonius… but never just Jean."

Lucas's words struck Jean deeply.

He was right. Her entire life had been shaped by expectations, molding her into the person she was "meant" to be, not the person she wanted to be. She was taught to be courteous, composed, and to embody the perfect "Acting Grand Master Jean."

Perhaps the only time she felt like her true self was when she could chat with Lucas about her favorite romance novels.

"Lucas, can you promise me one thing?" Jean mustered her courage, lifting her head to meet his eyes. "When this mission is over, spend a day with me—just one day—where I can be… truly myself."

"Of course!" Lucas replied with a laugh. "We can play music and sing in the square."

Jean nodded. "And get drunk at a tavern!"

Lucas added, "Or read as many romance novels as you like!"

Jean grinned. "Or take a nap on the grass!"

Getting into the spirit, Lucas exclaimed, "Or go blow up fish with Klee!"

Jean smirked playfully. "Then I'll lock both you and Klee in solitary confinement."

Lucas froze, but Jean chuckled softly and said, "Just kidding."

"So you can joke after all?" Lucas said with a smile. "That's the real Jean. I like it."

You… like it?

Just as Jean was about to question whether Lucas's use of the word "like" held deeper meaning, an unusual disturbance rippled across the otherwise calm lake surface.

Always vigilant, Jean immediately sensed something amiss. Her hand instinctively went to her sword hilt, preparing for any potential threat.

"Everyone, stay alert!" she called out. "The lake is behaving strangely!"

At her warning, the group quickly became tense, hundreds of eyes focusing on the lake. Each member of the subjugation team was a seasoned warrior; their heightened alertness reflected their expertise. Even if a terrifying beast lurked beneath the lake, it would find itself hard-pressed against such a well-prepared force.

However, as the ripples and mist cleared, the lake revealed not a monstrous creature, but an irregularly shaped, glowing water sphere gently floating above the surface.

"What is that?" Lucas asked, puzzled. "A Hydro Slime?"

Yet, even a Hydro Slime should have discernible facial features. This sphere, however, was featureless and amorphous.

Suddenly, Jean, who had been standing beside Lucas, seemed to lose her composure. Her eyes dimmed as though her soul had been drawn away. She began to walk toward the water sphere in a trance-like state, murmuring softly, "Father… Mother… are you reconciled? And Barbara… our family can finally be whole again…"

It wasn't just Jean. Other Knights of Favonius members were also entranced, dropping their weapons and moving toward the lake with dazed expressions, mumbling various desires aloud.

"Such a beautiful sword! With it, I could become a great warrior…"

"Annina, I've loved you for so long. Please accept my proposal!"

"So much money… With this, I could retire early and open my fishing shop…"

Even Lumine and Paimon were not immune.

Lumine kept whispering "Brother…" repeatedly, while Paimon's mouth rattled off a litany of foods as though reciting a menu.

Strangely, Lucas alone seemed unaffected.

"So that's it," said Venti, who no longer bothered to conceal his identity. His brow furrowed as he observed the scene. "It's a 'Hydro Mirage.'"

"What's that?" Lucas quickly asked.

"It's a type of illusion that uses Hydro elements to manifest the deepest desires or dreams of those ensnared," Venti explained. "To us, it appears as a simple water sphere. But to the victims, it might resemble a mountain of Mora, a breathtaking beauty, or even long-lost loved ones."

"What happens if the illusion isn't broken?" Lucas pressed further.

"The illusion will draw them in until they walk into the water and drown," Venti answered grimly, though he seemed puzzled. "But such mirages are usually exclusive to the pure-water spirits of Fontaine. They're defensive rather than offensive and rarely attack other creatures."

Realizing the urgency, Lucas stepped forward and grabbed Jean's wrist, forcibly halting her steps. However, the other entranced members continued toward the water, some already waist-deep in the lake.

Though Lucas considered freezing the lake with Cryo elements, his lack of precise control over his abilities made it risky; he could inadvertently harm those already in the water.

"How can we break this illusion?" Lucas asked, a hint of panic creeping into his voice. "You must have a way!"

"There is a solution," Venti replied casually, a mischievous grin playing on his lips. "Strong stimulation can disrupt the illusion."

Strong stimulation?

Lucas, desperate to save Jean, acted without hesitation. He raised his hand and slapped Jean's cheek in an attempt to awaken her through pain. Yet, even as her cheek turned red, she remained unfazed, continuing her mechanical march toward the lake.

Years of rigorous training had evidently dulled Jean's sensitivity to pain.

Then Lucas remembered something. In the simulator, Jean had a particularly sensitive spot—one that elicited a sharp reaction whenever touched…

Without hesitation, Lucas moved behind Jean and reached for that spot, grabbing her soft ass and giving it a light squeeze.

"Ah!!"

Jean, previously entranced by the Hydro Mirage, suddenly snapped back to her senses. Reflexively, she spun around and slapped Lucas across the face with a resounding "smack." A delicate red handprint appeared on his cheek.

Yet, Lucas didn't seem angry in the slightest. Instead, he sighed in relief and asked, "Jean, are you awake now?"

"What… happened?" Jean murmured, still disoriented. "I think… I saw my estranged parents reconciling…"

It seemed this vision was a reflection of Jean's deepest yearning.

"Unfortunately, it was all just an illusion," Lucas quickly explained. "Everyone's been ensnared by a mirage. I had to… uh… take action to wake you up."

At his words, both Lucas and Jean turned red, clearly aware of what had just transpired.

"But…" Jean frowned as realization dawned. "Why weren't you affected by the illusion?"

"Good question. Why wasn't I…?" Lucas pondered, suddenly pulling out a small, ornate pouch from his chest. The faint, calming scent of Qingxin Grass wafted from it.

With his [Medical Sage] talent, Lucas quickly pieced it together. The shredded Qingxin Grass inside the pouch not only calmed the mind but also emitted a fragrance that could dispel specific types of illusions—including Hydro Mirages.

Whether it was coincidence or something more deliberate, Lucas wasn't sure.

"I've got a plan!" Lucas exclaimed. He opened the pouch and poured the Qingxin Grass fragments into his hand. "I'll scatter these, and you can use Anemo to disperse them across the area. That should break the illusion."

"Good idea!" Jean nodded. "I'm ready when you are."

Though it sounded simple, executing it was anything but. Precisely manipulating the tiny fragments with Anemo required immense control over elemental energy. Miscalculations could lead to failure, leaving the others trapped in the mirage.

"We only have one shot!"

---

At Lucas's command, he scattered the Qingxin Grass fragments into the air with a flick of his wrist. In the same instant, Jean swung her sword, channeling precise wind elements along its blade. The fragments dispersed perfectly, like a fragrant drizzle falling over the area.

Nearby, Venti had already prepared to intervene if necessary. However, his assistance proved unnecessary—Jean's remarkable elemental control ensured the Qingxin Grass was distributed flawlessly. The soothing fragrance wafted through the air, reaching the ensnared victims.

Sure enough, as soon as they inhaled the fragrance, those under the Hydro Mirage began regaining their senses. Some had been mere seconds away from submerging entirely into the lake; without intervention, they would have lost consciousness and drowned.

"Everyone, retreat to the shore!" Jean commanded immediately. "The enemy hasn't fully revealed themselves yet. Stay vigilant!"

But before the knights could fully regroup, the lake's surface suddenly churned into a massive vortex. The glowing sphere of water shifted, transforming into a colossal, eight-headed water dragon that towered over the group, roaring furiously from the center of the lake.

Its sheer size eclipsed even that of the Stormterror, and its fearsome appearance sent a wave of unease through the gathered fighters.

Yet, Lucas couldn't shake the feeling that something about this creature didn't add up.

Unlike Stormterror, this water dragon lacked the same oppressive aura of overwhelming power.

"Roar!"

The dragon bellowed in a deep, resonant voice: "Foolish mortals! How dare you disturb my slumber? Consider this a mere warning—leave now, or face my wrath!"

It can talk?

Jean, ever the cautious leader, considered the situation. Their mission was to subdue the Stormterror; engaging this creature could be an unnecessary diversion. No casualties had occurred yet, so it might be wiser to withdraw.

However, just as she contemplated ordering a retreat, Paimon shouted, "Oh no! Traveler—Traveler is gone!"

Lucas's heart sank as he realized Lumine had vanished. Even Paimon, usually inseparable from her, couldn't locate her companion. There was no doubt—Lumine was in danger.

At the water's edge, Lucas spotted a single white flower—Lumine's hair accessory. The implication was clear: she had likely fallen victim to the earlier illusion and was now submerged in the lake.

"We'll leave!" Lucas called out. "But return my friend to me!"

"How dare a mere human attempt to negotiate with me!" the dragon roared, its eight heads rising high. Around it, multiple water columns erupted violently, a clear show of force. "Leave now, or suffer my fury!"

"In that case, let me test your strength myself."

Lucas stepped forward without hesitation, his voice resolute. "Jean, Lumine is my friend. This is my responsibility to handle. Take the others and retreat."

"What are you talking about…" Jean stepped forward to stand beside him, her gaze unwavering. "Your friend is my friend. If I can't protect those in front of me, how can I protect the people of Mondstadt?"

Jean's words rallied the group, bolstering their morale. A chorus of steel rang out as the Knights of Favonius drew their swords, ready for battle.

"You cowardly beast!" Eula stormed forward, gripping her claymore with frost gathering around her. "If you think you can toy with us like this, I'll freeze you solid and shatter you!"

"How… how dare you!"

The water dragon's voice cracked as it retreated slightly. "Take another step, and I… I'll drown you!"

But this time, its voice lacked the earlier gravitas and instead trembled with nervousness.

"Enough pretending." Lucas intercepted Eula, stopping her advance. Fixing the dragon with a sharp glare, he sneered. "You're weak, aren't you?"

"W-What?"

The dragon's voice faltered further, the bravado in its tone fading. "I… I'm very strong!"

"If you're really so powerful, why resort to illusions instead of attacking directly?" Lucas asked confidently. "Water, for all its strength, is amorphous and deceptive. Your imposing form is just for show, isn't it?"

"I'll prove how 'strong' you are!" Eula snapped, her frosty claymore sparking with cold energy. "How dare you toy with us like this…"

Lucas couldn't help but wonder what Eula had seen in the Hydro Mirage that had riled her so much.

As Eula prepared to strike, the dragon visibly cowered, curling its eight heads together. "I… I was wrong! Don't kill me! I… I didn't want this to happen!"

The water dragon's form dissolved, and in its place stood a small humanoid figure made of water.

It resembled the "Slime Maidens" from stories, but its translucent blue body shimmered with a vibrant luster. It looked no older than ten, with a frightened, tearful expression.

(AN: smth like this?)

"A pure-water elemental…" Venti muttered beside Lucas. "Let's ask questions before attacking. These creatures are often Fontaine's agents, but they rarely act aggressively unless provoked. Maybe there's more to this."

Lucas was somewhat familiar with pure-water elementals.

They were living manifestations of water formed from concentrated Hydro elements. Typically found near pristine bodies of water, their strength correlated with the purity of their surroundings. Most had ties to Fontaine's Hydro Archon and acted as her spies, observing the world.

Pure-water elementals seldom attacked humans unless the water source was threatened or corrupted.

"Don't be scared," Lucas said gently, kneeling to address the creature. "What's your name? Why did you use illusions against us?"

"M-My name is Endora," the elemental stammered, her voice trembling. "A blue figure with a mask and two bunny-like ears captured me and forced me to cast illusions on you."

"A blue figure with a mask and rabbit ears…" Jean murmured, her brows furrowing. "Could it be a Hydro Abyss Mage?"

Having dealt with the Abyss Order before, Jean immediately recognized the description.

Lucas examined Endora closely and noticed a faint black sun-shaped sigil etched on her forehead.

"That's the Abyss Order's binding curse," said Kaeya, who suddenly appeared from the shadows, his tone casual. "Looks like I missed some fun."

Curious, Lucas couldn't help but wonder what Kaeya might have seen in the Hydro Mirage if he'd been affected.

"I won't hurt you," Lucas reassured Endora. "Just tell me where the blonde girl is."

"Aaaaah!"

Before Endora could answer, she let out a pained cry. Her watery form began to dissipate rapidly, her essence evaporating before their eyes. "I… I feel strange… Help… me!"

"Seems the Abyss Mage is trying to silence her to prevent her from leaking information," Kaeya remarked with a hint of regret. "What a waste."

Lucas, aware of Kaeya's ties to Khaenri'ah, suspected his insight came from his unique heritage.

"Is there a way to save her?" Lucas asked urgently.

"That curse is essentially a master-servant contract," Kaeya replied with a shrug. "You'd either need to break the contract… or overwrite it with a stronger one."

A master-servant contract?

Lucas seemed to recall something. From his storage space, he produced a charm inscribed with red talismans: "I'm not sure if this will work, but... it's worth a try!"

Without hesitation, he pressed the charm onto Endora's forehead. A golden light flashed, halting the disintegration of her body. The black sun-shaped mark on her forehead vanished instantly.

[Successful Subjugation!]

[Shikigami Information Confirmed]

[Name]: Endora

[Species]: Pure-Water Elemental

[Attribute]: Hydro

[Skills: Hydro Mirage, Water Form Summoning, Mirage Explosion, Hydro Possession]

[Gained 1000 Virtue Points for saving Endora from the brink of death!]

Relief washed over Lucas as Endora officially became his shikigami.

The talisman he used was none other than the Shikigami Talisman—a reward from the simulator. While ordinary people couldn't wield such an artifact, Lucas's Great Onmyoji talent allowed him to master its use with ease.

"I… I'm alive!" Endora exclaimed, hopping with joy. "I'm free! Thank you, Master!"

"Now, with your freedom restored, you shouldn't have any reservations," Lucas said, leaning forward. "Tell me—where is the girl?"

"Yeah, where's Traveler?" Paimon cried, her voice choked with emotion. "She's my best friend! If… if she dies—"

Seeing Paimon's distress, Lucas quickly reassured her.

"Don't worry, Lumine—"

"If she dies, you'll have to take me in!" Paimon clung to Lucas's cloak, sobbing. "Don't worry! Paimon's very easy to take care of!"

"Don't lose hope so soon!" Lucas said with an exasperated laugh. "Trust me. If the enemy's goal was just to kill Lumine, they wouldn't go through such elaborate lengths. I'd bet she's still safe."

His words weren't baseless optimism.

As someone who knew the story well, Lucas understood that if Lumine was the Traveler, the mastermind behind the Abyss Order was her brother, Aether. No matter how grim things seemed, Aether wouldn't truly harm his sister.

"I know where she is!" Freed from her contract, Endora spoke with confidence. "She's at the bottom of the lake! That blue guy captured her!"

A Hydro Abyss Mage?

"But none of us have Hydro Visions," Jean said with a furrowed brow. "If I'd known, I would've brought Barbara along."

Even though a Hydro Vision wouldn't allow someone to move freely underwater, it could reduce resistance and make diving easier.

Jean had considered taking Barbara on the expedition initially. After all, if Barbara could master her "Gigantification" ability, she might be a powerful asset against Stormterror.

However, Jean ultimately decided against it.

Barbara was reluctant to use that power, and its effectiveness against a flying opponent like Stormterror was uncertain. Most importantly, Jean didn't want to expose her sister, a support unit, to the frontlines' dangers.

Now, even Lucas was stumped. Though he could swim, he couldn't stay underwater for long, and combat in the enemy's domain would put him at a significant disadvantage.

Even Sun Wukong had his limitations underwater.

"Leave it to me, Master!" Endora suddenly declared. She leaped onto Lucas and melded into his body. "Hydro Possession!"

Bluish patterns rippled across Lucas's skin, glowing faintly like flowing water.

"This is one of my unique abilities!" Endora's voice echoed in Lucas's consciousness. "When I merge with you, Master, you'll gain the same freedom to move underwater as a pure-water elemental. But... I can't maintain it for long."

"That's fine! This is more than enough." Lucas marveled at his transformed body, then turned to the others. "I'll dive in to rescue her. Jean, you all stay here and hold the perimeter."

"Understood…" Jean hesitated briefly before nodding. "Please, come back safely."

"If you dare let anything happen to yourself…" Eula said, her eyes narrowing, "I'll hold this grudge forever."

"By the way…" Lucas glanced at Eula with a smirk. "What did you see in the mirage earlier?"

Eula's cheeks flushed red. She stammered, "Is… is this really the time for that? Just go already! I'll tell you when you get back!"

"Deal!" Lucas chuckled before turning to Jean. "And don't worry, I haven't forgotten our promise. Wait for my safe return."

With those parting words, Lucas dove gracefully into the lake, leaving Jean and Eula exchanging awkward glances.

"Tsk tsk…"

Kaeya's playful laugh broke the silence. "He's quite lucky, isn't he? With so many people worrying about him, if anything happens, I wouldn't be surprised if they drained the entire lake to find him."

"Kaeya!" Jean's face turned bright red. "Since you abandoned your post earlier, I expect a full written report on my desk by tomorrow morning!"

"As you command~" Kaeya shrugged, humming a jaunty tune as he walked away.

Deep beneath the lake…

No light reached the depths, and in the dead of night, the lakebed was shrouded in absolute darkness. Only the occasional glimmer from bioluminescent creatures flickered faintly, serving as bait for unsuspecting prey.

Yet, in one secluded corner of the lake, a faint glow revealed the presence of a small underwater palace. Encased in a shimmering bubble that separated it from the surrounding water, the palace stood like a hidden refuge.

Inside, Lumine lay unconscious on a bed made from an enormous seashell. Her eyes remained closed, her chest rising and falling softly as if in peaceful slumber.

Floating beside her was a small unknown figure clad in a blue robe. A mask obscured its face, and two rabbit-like ears jutted from its head.

----

Author's note: You can see changes to the Fontaine lore because it was not released at the time of this novel, I may do something about it in the future... Will probably do a poll to decide what to do, as I really like Fontaine and its characters.

She was none other than the mastermind behind this "kidnapping incident" and the Hydro Abyss Mage who had inscribed the contract on Endora—Kulechet.

In general, Abyss Mages were the lowest-ranking members of the Abyss Order. Though they could wield troublesome elemental magic, their individual combat strength wasn't particularly high.

But Kulechet was different. Thanks to her exceptional talent and superior capabilities, she had quickly distinguished herself among her peers, even earning a place by the side of the Abyss Order's leader—the "Prince."

This mission was personally assigned to her by the Prince: to stop this golden-haired girl from participating in the operation to subdue Stormterror.

The Stormterror's madness was itself a part of the Abyss Order's schemes. However, the Prince didn't seem concerned about the Knights of Favonius' plan to defeat the dragon. Perhaps he believed their mission was doomed to fail, nothing more than a futile act of martyrdom.

But why did he insist on stopping this particular girl? Even Kulechet didn't know the answer.

"What a beautiful girl..." Kulechet murmured as she studied the flawless features of the unconscious Lumine, resting inside the giant shell. "Why is the Prince so intent on saving you? Could it be... that he fancies you?"

The Abyssal remnants of Khaenri'ah, having long since transformed into Abyssal creatures, gradually lost their human emotions over time.

But Kulechet was different. She had always secretly admired the Prince, harboring a peculiar affection for him. Lumine's sudden appearance stirred a faint, inexplicable jealousy within her nonexistent "heart."

If only the Prince's eyes saw me and no one else...

The thought sparked a fleeting glint of murderous intent in Kulechet's eyes.

At this moment, she was still unaware that the golden-haired girl before her was, in fact, the Prince's younger sister.

"Stop!"

A sharp shout rang out from behind her. Startled, Kulechet turned around abruptly, only to see a human male standing there.

"How could a human be here?" Kulechet exclaimed in shock. "Who are you?!"

This underwater palace was crafted using her unique elemental magic. Ordinary humans couldn't possibly dive to such depths, let alone breach the water bubble protecting the palace.

"Master, that's the bad person!" Endora's form materialized beside Lucas, pointing an accusatory finger at Kulechet. "She's the one who forced me to do bad things!"

"So it was you who brought an outsider here." Kulechet sneered, recovering her composure. "No matter. After I kill your new master, I'll deal with you properly. I'll lock you in a dirty water tank and flush you down the toilet!"

"No! I don't want to be flushed down the toilet!" Endora whimpered, shrinking behind Lucas, trembling.

Although pure-water elementals didn't have physical bodies and were immune to physical pain, they required extremely clean environments to survive. Being forced to live in polluted water was the cruelest torture for them. It was clear Endora had suffered greatly under Kulechet's control.

"No one will hurt you," Lucas said coldly, fixing Kulechet with a piercing glare. "Return the girl to me."

"That's not going to happen." Kulechet raised her hand, and the shell housing Lumine snapped shut with a resounding clang. "If you want to take her, you'll have to step over my—"

Before she could finish, Lucas closed the distance between them in an instant, gripping her head and slamming her forcefully into the ground.

Pain shot through Kulechet's skull, leaving her momentarily stunned. Instinctively, she activated her teleportation magic, escaping from Lucas's grasp and reappearing several meters away.

Lucas had deliberately held back. If he had used his full strength, her head would have been reduced to a bloody pulp against the palace floor.

Abyss Mages were not particularly strong, but their ability to teleport made them difficult adversaries. Even if overpowered, they could quickly flee to safety.

But the sheer power Lucas had just displayed exceeded Kulechet's expectations.

As an Abyss Order officer, she was familiar with the combat prowess of Mondstadt's forces. The Grand Master, Varka, was currently away, and among the younger generation, even Diluc, despite leaving the Knights, was considered their most formidable fighter.

But this man didn't match any of the known profiles of Mondstadt's elite combatants.

"Return Lumine to me," Lucas said, his expression cold and unyielding. "And I might spare your life."

For reasons she couldn't comprehend, Endora sensed an oppressive aura radiating from her master. It was as if the carefree man from earlier had transformed into something entirely different.

In truth, Lucas usually suppressed his darker emotions to avoid unnerving those around him. But now, with no one but the enemy present, he felt no need to hold back.

"On land, perhaps I'd feel more threatened," Kulechet retorted, regaining her confidence. "But here, in the depths of the lake, you stand no chance. Consider yourself lucky—you'll die witnessing my true form!"

With those words, a whirlpool of water surrounded Kulechet. As it dispersed, her figure transformed.

Her new appearance resembled a humanoid mage, her body larger and her features more defined. The once-billowing robes were now snug against her figure, accentuating her form in a way that was difficult to ignore.

What the... she can transform?

This wasn't something Lucas remembered from the game.

But he could tell her power had increased substantially. She was clearly no ordinary Abyss Mage.

"Well, I guess I have no choice," Lucas muttered, cracking his knuckles. "Time to take you down."

"Stop talking big!" Kulechet waved her wand, which resembled a tree branch, and chanted in an odd tone, "Rite of Mortal Water!"

At her words, several enormous water bubbles materialized around Lucas, surrounding him entirely.

Lucas immediately recognized this move—if he touched one of the bubbles, he would be trapped inside. Even in the game, it was an incredibly annoying skill to deal with.

"Be careful, Master!" Endora said anxiously. "I was caught by that move back then!"

"Child's play!"

Lucas drew his katana, [Broken Mistsplliter], and with a sharp slash, one of the bubbles burst instantly, shattering into countless droplets.

More bubbles floated toward him, but Lucas's flowing swordsmanship left no opening. Each bubble was cut down before it could reach him.

"Master is amazing!" Endora cheered as Lucas deftly destroyed the bubbles.

In less than a minute, every bubble around him had been popped.

"It seems I underestimated you," Kulechet said, clapping her hands, though her tone remained calm. "But it's a pity—you missed one bubble."

"Wait, could it be…"

Lucas's face changed as he realized something, but it was too late. The massive bubble that had encased the palace was shrinking, tightening rapidly.

"So all those bubbles were just distractions?" Lucas muttered.

"Your observation skills aren't bad, but you're too late!" Kulechet stepped back, leaving the shrinking bubble to envelop Lucas entirely. It compressed down to a sphere barely two meters in diameter, trapping him inside.

"Hahaha!"

Kulechet approached the bubble, her face smug as she observed Lucas trapped within. "Caught you, didn't I? Now, let me think. Should I fill the bubble with water and drown you, or bury you in the lake and imprison you here forever?"

But before she could continue gloating, Lucas smiled—a strange, unnerving smile.

Raising his hand, Lucas extended it beyond the edge of the bubble as if the barrier weren't even there. He grabbed one of the rabbit-like adornments on Kulechet's hood.

"H-How is this possible?"

Kulechet was so startled she froze. Before she could react, Lucas pulled her inside the bubble with a firm tug.

"Get in here!"

With a cold grin, Lucas watched as Kulechet, still in shock, was yanked into the bubble by her hood.

"Now, who's caught whom?" Lucas sneered.

What kind of monster is this?!

Kulechet's Rite of Mortal Water was her signature move. While not invincible, it was highly effective, and she had never encountered anyone who could physically break through it, let alone pull someone else inside.

Moreover, her teleportation spell had a cooldown of an hour. For now, there was no escaping Lucas's grasp.

"Dispel the bubble," Lucas said flatly. "Don't you think it's a little cramped in here?"

Reluctantly, Kulechet nodded and released the spell. The surrounding water returned to normal, and the palace was once again free from the bubble's confines.

"D-Don't do anything reckless!" Kulechet's confidence began to waver, and a trace of fear crept into her voice. "If you kill me, the shell will crush that girl to death instantly!"

"I don't have time for games," Lucas said, his patience wearing thin. "Tell me how to open the shell, or I'll make you wish you were never born."

"Don't underestimate the loyalty of the Abyss Order," Kulechet sneered. "No matter what you do to me, I won't betray the Prince. I will never let him down."

Her resolve was admirable. The Abyss Order's members were known for their unshakable faith. Even when captured, they rarely divulged any valuable information. It was likely that any betrayal would lead to consequences far worse than death.

"You won't be able to hide anything from me."

Lucas reached out and placed a hand on Kulechet's forehead. "Interrogation Technique! Tell me how to open the shell!"

[Interrogation Technique]: Forces the target to answer one question truthfully. Success rate depends on the target's mental strength. Usable once per day.

Kulechet's eyes flickered with a faint pink glow. A moment later, she murmured as if compelled, "If the water content in my body drops below 40%, I won't be able to sustain even basic magic…"

Her voice trailed off, and when she realized what she had just revealed, her eyes widened in disbelief. "How… how could I reveal my weakness?!"

Abyss Mages didn't possess Visions; they likely drew elemental energy from ley lines. However, some Abyss Mages, like Kulechet, enhanced their powers by linking elemental energy directly to their bodies.

For Hydro Abyss Mages, this meant using the water in their bodies as a conduit for elemental manipulation. While this method granted greater control, it came with a glaring flaw—if their internal water content fell too low, they couldn't use magic at all.

The human body typically consists of 60-70% water. For Abyss Mages, the threshold was similar. At 50%, dehydration began, and at 40% or lower, severe dehydration rendered them powerless.

"So, killing you would seal the shell forever," Lucas mused. "But dehydrating you would open it. Isn't that right?"

"Hmph. So what?" Kulechet remained defiant. "You can't control water elements. How do you plan to drain the water from my body?"

"Endora, can you do it?" Lucas asked.

"I… I can't," Endora said apologetically. "To control water within a body requires precise elemental manipulation. If I accidentally extract too much, she'll die instantly."

"Hahaha!" Kulechet laughed, her confidence restored. "Looks like you're out of options. Keep wasting time, and reinforcements from the Abyss Order will arrive soon. If you don't want to die, you'd better run."

"So, I just need to dehydrate you?" Lucas's eyes narrowed as an idea struck him. A faint smile played across his lips. "Who says I need elemental manipulation to make that happen?"

"What do you mean?" Kulechet scoffed. "If you think cutting off my water intake will work, think again. I can go weeks without drinking a drop and still function perfectly."

Lucas didn't respond. Instead, he reached out and removed Kulechet's mask.

He paused briefly, then chuckled. "I didn't expect Abyss Mages to look so human after transforming. You're quite cute, actually. Fortunately you're female; otherwise, I might've been at a loss."

Kulechet's face, unmasked, was strikingly similar to a human's, with exotic features reminiscent of Kaeya's. She had an otherworldly charm that was both alluring and disarming.

(AN: Thats the best I could fine.. Excluding the lolis)

"What… what are you planning?" Kulechet stammered, sensing danger in Lucas's gaze. "If you dare try anything, I'll bite my tongue and—mmph!"

Before she could finish, Lucas summoned an ice pop and stuffed it into her mouth, preventing her from speaking—or biting her tongue.

"Master, do you have a plan?" Endora asked eagerly.

"You're still too young to understand," Lucas said gently. "Close your eyes and rest for now."

This version of Master is so kind…

Endora nodded and retreated. "Alright. I'll leave it to you, Master. Call me if you need me."

"Take your time sleeping," Lucas said with a wry smile, licking his lips. "This… might take a while."

.....

Kulechet's heart raced with panic, but with her mouth gagged, she could only make muffled sounds of protest. "Mmmph! Mmmph!"

"This is all your doing, little one," Lucas said with a calm smile, lifting his hand to unfasten the clasp of her mage's robe. "I need to release your 'valves' to reduce the water content in your body. Do you know where those 'valves' are?"

The "Ring of Manipulation" on Lucas's wrist began to emit a familiar pinkish glow. The aura, tied to the "Sin of Lust", started to seep into Lucas's consciousness, subtly influencing his actions.

Kulechet shook her head frantically. Though she understood his words individually, their combined meaning eluded her.

"It seems you've only managed to mimic a human form, but you don't truly understand the human body," Lucas said, continuing his motions without much concern. "Then let me explain. There are four valves in total."

Four?

Is that even possible?

Kulechet's face showed a look of utter disbelief. She had assumed, at most, there might be two.

"Still unwilling to dispel the magic?" Lucas's tone turned firm, as if issuing a final ultimatum. "As a gentleman, I'd rather not resort to such messy methods."

"Stop trying to intimidate me…" Kulechet's voice, though stifled, was resolute, her expression steadfast. "No matter what, I won't betray the Prince. And besides, there's no way… no way that method will actually make me lose my water content. It's impossible!"

"Impossible or not, we'll find out," Lucas said coolly, gripping her chin to force her gaze upward. "Tell me your name. My sword never strikes the nameless."

"K-Kulechet…" the girl stammered, almost involuntarily revealing her name.

Abyss creatures' true names were deeply tied to their previous lives, a remnant of their former humanity. Most Abyss creatures concealed their real names, using only aliases or titles. It was said that when an Abyss creature forgot even their true name, they would have fully succumbed to the abyss, abandoning their former selves entirely.

---

"Kulechet, is it? I'll remember that." Lucas shifted behind her, adjusting his angle. "Next, I'll call your name to confirm if you're still conscious."

"W-What?"

And so, Kulechet began to realize just how painful—and yet, how intoxicating—it was to experience life as a "human."

[Talent Activated: First Glass of Red Wine][Hydro Damage increased by 20%.]

In Mondstadt's Cat's Tail Tavern, there was a unique drink called "Slime Champagne." To prepare it, the bartender would keep a small Hydro Slime on hand. When needed, a mixing rod coated with a mildly irritating substance was inserted into the Hydro Slime's body, agitating it.

The distressed Hydro Slime would secrete a special gel-like substance, forming the base of the champagne.

This method, originally devised by the feline bartender Diona as a prank on drunken patrons, quickly gained popularity. Unfortunately, the process left Hydro Slimes fatally dehydrated, leading to a skyrocketing demand for live Hydro Slimes in Mondstadt. At their peak, they were traded like speculative commodities.

Unscrupulous merchants bought 20-30 kilogram Hydro Slimes at high prices, crammed them together in pens, and extracted their gel day and night to maximize profits.

Before long, however, Diona introduced a new line of cocktails, rendering "Slime Champagne" obsolete. The merchants who had hoarded Hydro Slimes faced financial ruin. Many, buried under crushing debt, leapt from rooftops to their deaths, earning them the nickname "Flying Entrepreneurs."

This tangent may seem unrelated, but it provides context for Lucas's current actions.

Using a similar method, Lucas was "dehydrating" Kulechet.

Of course, the "Hydro Abyss Mage Champagne" produced by this technique wasn't exactly destined to become a best-seller.

Hydration Level: 63%...

Hydration Level: 56%...

"How are you holding up, Kulechet?" Lucas's voice dripped with the malice of a devil's whisper. "Does my method work?"

"This... this is just the beginning," Kulechet gritted her teeth. "I... I can endure it..."

Hydration Level: 51%...

Hydration Level: 47%...

"Still feeling defiant?" Lucas smirked. "You're like someone chewing gum—once you start, you just can't stop."

"Shut... shut up..." Kulechet's voice grew faint, her strength waning.

Hydration Level: 45%...

Hydration Level: 42%...

"Are you still alive over there?" Lucas wiped the sweat from his brow. "If you can't hold out, just surrender. Even the fountain at Mondstadt Cathedral would resign out of envy if it saw you."

"I... I won't betray... the Prince..." Kulechet's words were airy, as if they were floating through the sky.

Hydration Level: 40%...

Hydration Level: 39%...

Finally, with a splash of water, the overly dehydrated Kulechet collapsed, unable to hold on any longer. Simultaneously, the shell that had been tightly encasing Lumine slowly opened, revealing the unconscious golden-haired girl inside.

But it wasn't just the shell that lost its magical hold. The surrounding water bubble maintaining the underwater palace also disintegrated, collapsing under the strain of Kulechet's dehydration. Water began seeping in through the thinning barriers, threatening to flood the entire area within moments.

Seeing the rising water and the still-unconscious Lumine, as well as the incapacitated Kulechet, Lucas quickly acted. "Endora! Hydro Possession!"

"At once!"

Endora, who had been in a resting state, immediately responded to Lucas's call. Upon opening her eyes, however, she looked puzzled. "Huh? Where are your clothes?"

"Not the time to worry about that!" Lucas quickly pulled his clothes back on. "Possess Lumine! We need to get out of here now!"

"But if I possess her, what about you, Master?" Endora asked, concerned. "It'll take at least five minutes to swim back to the surface."

"Who said anything about swimming?"

Holding both girls tightly in his arms, Lucas braced himself. "Ice Pillar, rise!"

Under his feet, ice energy surged and formed a pillar, rapidly carrying Lucas and the two girls upward like an underwater elevator, propelling them toward the lake's surface.

.....

"Cough, cough..."

Kulechet slowly regained consciousness, only to see Lucas holding a chilled cup of ice water, gently pouring the liquid into her mouth.

"Wha... cough, cough!"

Kulechet quickly pushed Lucas away, spitting out the water in shock. "What... what did you make me drink?"

"Relax," Lucas replied nonchalantly. "It's just plain ice water. If you don't rehydrate, you'll die."

Looking around at her surroundings and spotting the still-unconscious Lumine nearby, Kulechet understood that her mission had failed.

What she couldn't comprehend was why Lucas had brought her back to the surface and even saved her life.

Lucas wasn't the type to spare his enemies lightly. If Kulechet were just another ordinary Abyss Mage, he'd likely be digging a grave for her body by now.

But Lucas remembered that Kulechet wasn't just any Abyss Mage—she was a named officer directly serving the "Prince," Lumine's brother, Aether.

Aether would never harm Lumine. His intention in having her captured was likely to prevent her from participating in the Stormterror expedition. If Lucas killed one of Aether's trusted officers, it could create a lasting feud.

Although Lucas' power had grown considerably, he wasn't yet in a position to take on the Abyss Order as a whole.

"Why... why didn't you kill me?" Kulechet asked, her voice weak yet cautious.

"Consider it a reward for the entertainment you provided me." Lucas tossed Kulechet's mage robe back to her and chuckled. "Of all the valves I've opened, you're the most... hydrated."

"You...!"

Kulechet flushed with embarrassment, but before she could retort, Lucas had already turned away, carrying Lumine in his arms. Without looking back, he said, "Tell your master that I'll protect Lumine. He doesn't need to worry."

Lucas had briefly considered turning Kulechet into an informant within the Abyss Order, much like he had with Lyudmila from the Fatui.

Ultimately, he dismissed the idea. Abyss Mages showed no fear of death, and even if she could be turned, the Abyss Order's intelligence held little immediate value for him.

As Lucas's figure faded into the distance, Kulechet remained seated, silent and contemplative.

The events that had just unfolded felt like a surreal dream. Though it was, in essence, a punishment, she hadn't felt much pain during the process.

Instead... there was an odd sense of pleasure.

"I'm sorry, Prince," Kulechet murmured, clutching the ice cup Lucas had used to give her water. "Not only did I fail the mission you entrusted to me, but... even my soul no longer feels pure. Can I still serve by your side like this?"

.....

At the same time, in the Knights of Favonius' encampment, many were drying their soaked clothing around the campfire.

Having been pulled into the lake earlier by Endora's Hydro Mirage, most had ended up drenched to the bone.

Jean, however, stood apart, her eyes fixed on the water's surface, her brow furrowed deeply.

"It's been two hours now…" she murmured to herself. "Lucas, you mustn't let anything happen to you."

"Captain Jean, don't worry. That guy won't die so easily," Eula said as she handed Jean a food container with a small smile. "Care for a slice of Moon Pie? It's a special treat from the Reconnaissance Squad. Not many get the chance to try it."

Despite her aloof demeanor, Eula's cooking skills were unexpectedly excellent. She excelled in crafting all kinds of pastries and often prepared rations for her squad when they ventured into the field. Her treats were so well-loved that they became a reason some knights eagerly volunteered for missions.

"Thank you…" Jean said. Although she wasn't in the mood to eat, she accepted out of politeness. Taking a bite of the Moon Pie, her eyes widened in surprise. "This… this is delicious!"

"Right?!" Eula said proudly. "If that guy doesn't get a chance to try it, he'll die with regrets!"

The two exchanged a brief, genuine smile.

Due to their family histories, there had always been tension between Jean of the Gunnhildr family and Eula of the Lawrence family. Their interactions were often strained and formal.

But in this moment, they seemed more like close friends.

Perhaps the bond they now shared was forged by their mutual concern for the same man.

"They're back!"

Kaeya's voice rang out as he waved to the returning Lucas, who carried an unconscious Lumine in his arms. "I knew you'd make it."

"Let me down!"

Lumine, who had regained consciousness during the return trip, protested shyly. While she insisted she could walk, Lucas refused to let her go, fearing the strain might harm her further.

"Not happening," Lucas said firmly. "You're still weak. Don't push yourself."

"Ugh…"

Despite her complaints, Lumine instinctively leaned into his chest, feeling a surprising sense of warmth and safety.

"Traveler! Waaaah!"

Paimon flew toward them and threw herself into Lumine's arms, her tears streaming freely. "I knew you'd be okay!"

This little companion certainly hadn't been this optimistic earlier…

Still, Lucas decided not to call her out. After all, this was a heartfelt reunion.

"What took you so long?" Jean and the others approached, concern evident on their faces. "What happened down there? Was it really an Abyss Mage who captured Lumine?"

"Uh… about that…" Lucas hesitated, realizing he hadn't thought up a believable excuse.

He couldn't exactly explain that he had been "helping an Abyss Mage hydrate," could he?

"I know, I know!"

Endora suddenly emerged from Lucas's side, her cheerful voice cutting through the tension. "I saw everything! Master used a strange rod to give that bad guy a good beating and squeezed all the water out of her!"

Lucas nearly turned pale with fright.

Thankfully, the little pure-water elemental was too naive to grasp the full implications of her words.

While her description was technically accurate, the image it conjured in Jean's mind was quite different. She imagined Lucas wielding a long staff in a fierce duel against the Abyss Mage.

"I didn't know you were skilled with a staff," Jean remarked, her tone tinged with curiosity. "Is this some kind of Liyue martial art?"

Eula's eyes lit up at the idea, and she cracked her knuckles. "I'd love to see your staff techniques in action. Let's spar sometime."

Her eagerness left Lucas feeling both amused and exasperated.

After all, in the simulator, Eula had experienced his "techniques" quite a few times already.

"Sorry…" Lumine said softly, her voice filled with guilt. "This was all my fault. I'm sorry for worrying everyone."

She was still unaware that the entire incident was tied to her brother, Aether.

"These things happen," Jean said, offering reassurance. "What's important is that we're all safe now. Everyone, rest up. We have a long day ahead."

However, the earlier commotion had left the camp in disarray. Many knights were still dealing with damp clothing and disrupted routines.

Even though these were elite members of the Knights of Favonius, and such inconveniences wouldn't significantly affect their capabilities, the quality of their rest had undoubtedly been compromised.

"What a mess…"

A cold, aloof voice suddenly broke the silence.

Emerging from the shadows of the trees was a tall man with striking red hair. His expression was impassive as he surveyed the scene. "Jean, is your task force here for a picnic?"

[Image here]

"Sir Diluc?" Jean gasped in surprise. "Why are you here?"

Indeed, this uninvited guest was none other than Diluc, the owner of Dawn Winery.

"This campsite," he said casually, "was purchased by me years ago. My estate, Dawn Winery, is only a few kilometers from here. Do you think I wouldn't notice what's happening on my own property?"

"This was my oversight," Jean admitted with a sigh, knowing full well Diluc's disdain for the Knights of Favonius. "We'll leave immediately—"

"There's no need for that."

Diluc shook his head. "Come with me to Dawn Winery. There are enough guest rooms for all of you to stay the night."

"...Huh?"

Jean blinked, genuinely surprised.

Had she heard correctly?

Diluc wasn't driving them away. He was inviting them to stay.

"Haha! I knew it!" Kaeya stepped forward with a sly grin. "You must be doing this for my sake—"

But Diluc ignored Kaeya entirely, striding over to Lucas instead. "Don't misunderstand. I'm only offering because of Lucas. He's my guest of honor."

What in the world? Is this turning into some cliché romance drama?

Lucas couldn't help but question if he'd been handed the wrong script from a neighboring melodrama production.

He remained oblivious to the real reason for Diluc's hospitality: Diluc believed Lucas to be a distant relative and was even considering entrusting him with a portion of his estate.

"What a joke," Eula scoffed, crossing her arms. Her prideful nature refused to tolerate Diluc's apparent smugness. "What's so special about Dawn Winery? Must you act like you're granting us charity?"

Author's Note: Once again shadowbanned 😮‍💨😌

Would be nice if you could join my patreon.. Oh well I'll still keep updating here I guess

Although Eula and Diluc were both individuals who had their grievances with the Knights of Favonius, Eula had no particular fondness for Diluc. The idea that "the enemy of my enemy is my friend" clearly didn't apply to her.

"Indeed, nothing remarkable," Diluc said nonchalantly. "Just soft beds, fireplaces to dry your clothes, fresh food… and, of course, exclusive, non-commercially available wine."

At the mention of wine, the group's ears collectively perked up. After all, for the people of Mondstadt, wine was as essential as Adobo to the Filipinos, Nasi Goreng to the Indonesians, or barbecue to the Americans.

What's more, this was exclusive, premium wine from Dawn Winery itself!

"Master Jean!" one of the knights exclaimed. "Since we're up against a tough battle tomorrow, it would be wise to let the team have proper rest tonight. Master Diluc is surely extending his hospitality with that in mind. We mustn't decline his kindness!"

That knight was none other than Venti in disguise. No one in the entire Knights of Favonius was more tempted by fine wine than him.

"Hmph, think what you will," Diluc said, his tone indifferent. "I'm only doing this for Lucas."

From a distance, Kaeya couldn't help but smile wryly at this statement. "So, brotherly bonds do fade after all…" he muttered.

Though Diluc and Kaeya often appeared at odds, they kept in secret correspondence and still cared for each other deeply. However, Kaeya was only an adopted brother. Compared to Lucas, who might share actual blood ties with Diluc, Kaeya evidently fell short.

Ultimately, for the sake of the group's well-being, Jean decided to accept Diluc's invitation. The group would rest at Dawn Winery for the night and set out again in the morning.

This decision was met with unanimous agreement. After all, tomorrow's battle might be a deadly one. At the very least, they could enjoy one last feast.

Diluc walked alongside Lucas, casually chatting. After a moment, a thought seemed to strike him, and he asked, "By the way, about the black card I gave you… I've already been notified of the recent transactions by the finance department."

Uh-oh.

Lucas felt a chill run down his spine.

The black card Diluc had gifted him, with its one-billion-Mora annual limit, might have been intended as a polite gesture. But Lucas had gone and spent several million in just a few days. The look on Diluc's face when he saw the bill couldn't have been a pleasant one.

And to make matters worse, fifty million Mora from that amount had been used as "ransom" for La Signora.

"I'm terribly sorry!" Lucas quickly apologized. "A lot has happened lately, but I'll make sure to repay you over time."

After all, he had a smithy in Mondstadt now. Little by little, he could chip away at the debt.

"That's not what I meant," Diluc said, shaking his head. "I realized that one billion might not be enough. I've already raised the card's limit to three billion Mora. Spend as much as you need."

Diluc's reasoning was simple: the more accustomed Lucas became to a life of luxury, the easier it would be for him to naturally assume the responsibility of inheriting Dawn Winery.

Lucas, however, was utterly dumbfounded.

Are rich people happy? No. Their joy is something beyond what the average person can even fathom.

....

After a brief period of organization, the Knights were assigned rooms.

Although Dawn Winery had many guest rooms, accommodating over a hundred people was still a challenge. The solution: four people per room.

"Wait a second—there must be a mistake," Lucas said, bewildered as he looked at the three women sharing his room. "Why am I rooming with girls?"

Indeed, the three sharing the room with Lucas were none other than Jean, Eula, and Lumine.

Of course, Paimon was there too, but as emergency rations, she didn't exactly count.

"No mistake," Eula said, shrugging indifferently. "You're the odd one out. What's the big deal? It's not like we're sharing the same bed. Why are you making such a fuss?"

"Though it's admittedly a breach of etiquette," even Jean seemed unbothered, "the circumstances are unusual. We'll just have to make do."

"Exactly," Paimon chimed in, flopping onto the bed. "It's so soft! Way comfier than Lucas' bed. Right, Traveler?"

"Paimon!" Lumine quickly tried to intervene, but it was too late. Both Jean and Eula turned their gazes toward her, curious.

"It's not what it sounds like." Lucas quickly clarified. "Lumine didn't have any money for lodging, so I let her crash at my place for a night."

"Yeah, yeah," Paimon added, puzzled. "But why do Jean and Eula look so tense about it?"

"I-I'm not tense!" Eula turned away abruptly, lying down. "Let's just get some sleep. I'm tired."

"Y-yes," Jean agreed with a nod. "Tomorrow's a big day. Rest is crucial."

"You guys go ahead," Lumine said with a smile. "I slept too long earlier. I'm not sleepy now."

"Same here," Paimon said, stroking her chin thoughtfully. "Let's do something fun! How about a word game? I'll start—'as you wish'!"

"Not a noisy game," Lucas warned gently. "You'll disturb everyone else."

"Oh, right…" Paimon paused, then brightened. "Hey, I'm curious—what does Traveler's brother look like? Endora, can you recreate the scenes from the Hydro Mirage?"

"I can!" Endora said proudly. "But everyone saw different things in the mirage. I'll have to show them one by one."

"That makes it even better!" Paimon said, grinning. "We'll get to see everyone's dreams!"

"I'd like to see my brother again," Lumine said with a nod. "If I can remember his face clearly, I might be able to use it for a missing-person poster."

Though she still remembered Aether's features, time had made them blurry.

"This shouldn't take long," Lucas estimated. "At ten seconds per scene, we'll be done in under half an hour."

"In that case, could I see mine as well?" Jean's expression turned wistful. "Even if it's just a fantasy, I want to feel that happiness again."

"You're welcome to," Paimon said, turning to Eula. "What about you, Eula?"

"I-I don't want to!" Eula turned her back on them. "I'm going to sleep. Keep it down."

Thus, Endora began replaying the illusions, like a slideshow of everyone's inner dreams.

Interestingly, while Endora could project these dreams, she didn't understand their deeper meaning—she simply mirrored what had been seen.

Each dream was unique.

Some knights dreamed of being celebrated heroes like Vennessa.

Others fantasized about mountains of Mora or lavish harems.

Watching these scenes, Jean couldn't help but reflect. Even the noble knights of Favonius harbored worldly, and sometimes sordid, desires.

"Whoa! It's Master Jean!"

Paimon's exclamation drew everyone's attention to the latest scene—a vision of Jean herself.

"This…" Jean's cheeks turned a faint pink.

"Well, that's understandable," Lucas said, trying to defuse the situation. "Every man has an ideal girl he admires."

As expected, the appearance of Jean in the mirages didn't surprise anyone. If anything, it would have been more unusual for her not to appear.

In addition to Jean, images of Lisa and Amber also surfaced in the illusions.

Most bizarrely, even Kaeya made an appearance!

Considering that the only women in the expedition were in this room, and the rest of the team were all men, this revelation left everyone scratching their heads.

Jean, her cheeks faintly pink, tried to explain. "Ahem… Well, this is Mondstadt, a nation that celebrates freedom…"

"Wait, even Eula is here!" Paimon exclaimed loudly. "Looks like you're quite popular, Eula. Don't you want to see for yourself?"

"Stop spouting nonsense!" Eula, her back still to the group, grumbled in a low voice. "I'm not interested."

"Wow! It's Eula without clothes!" Paimon blurted out.

"What?!" Eula shot upright in alarm, jumping off the bed, only to see her projected image fully clothed on the screen.

Realizing she had been tricked, Eula grabbed Paimon by the cheeks, squeezing them with frustration. "This mouth of yours—always making trouble! I'll remember this grudge, you little brat!"

"Shyoo save mee! (Jean, save me!)" Paimon's muffled cries for help were ignored as Jean simply smiled. "You brought this upon yourself, Paimon. I can't help you here."

The mirages continued to roll. The next image of Eula showed her holding the family heirloom sword, standing atop a grand platform while the crowd cheered wildly below.

Behind her, the Lawrence family banner billowed majestically in the wind—a scene that exuded prestige and power.

"Wait, this scene feels… different," Paimon said, puzzled. "Could this be Eula's own illusion?"

Restoring the Lawrence family to its former glory could only be Eula's dream.

"So what if it is?" Eula said without hesitation. "One day, I'll make this vision a reality."

"Hey, look!" Paimon suddenly pointed excitedly. "Are those children standing next to Eula hers?"

In the projection, several well-dressed children stood by Eula's side, all with striking features and an air of nobility.

"Indeed," Eula replied matter-of-factly. "Once the Lawrence family is revitalized, I'll ensure that its excellent genes are passed down through the generations."

"And that man over there—he must be your husband, right?" Paimon teased.

Paimon's remark immediately drew everyone's attention.

Sure enough, the mirage now showed a man's figure from behind, holding Eula's hand with a tender intimacy. Her gaze toward him was filled with deep affection.

"Wow, so Eula has a soft side too?"

"Turn around! I want to see what Eula's future husband looks like!"

Paimon and Lumine were both chattering excitedly, unable to contain their curiosity.

Even Jean, typically calm and composed, looked a little intrigued. Who was the man Eula envisioned herself with?

"Don't you think…" Paimon said, squinting at the screen, "this guy's back looks familiar?"

"Yeah," Lumine added, tilting her head. "I feel like I've seen him somewhere before."

"No… Stop it right now!" Eula's voice broke through, her embarrassment reaching its peak. A surge of icy energy appeared in her hands as she threatened, "Skip this scene or I'll freeze you all into popsicles!"

Startled, Endora immediately halted the projection. As a pure-water elemental, she was naturally vulnerable to ice.

"Aww, what a pity!" Lumine and Paimon groaned in unison, their disappointment palpable.

Jean, however, seemed relieved—almost as if a weight had been lifted.

"Lumine, look over there!" Paimon gasped suddenly, her voice filled with astonishment. "That boy… doesn't he look like you?"

Lumine's gaze snapped to the screen, and sure enough, a slender golden-haired boy appeared in the mirage, waving warmly.

"It's… my brother!" Lumine exclaimed, her voice trembling with excitement. "It's really him!"

Though it was only an illusion, the sight of Aether stirred a deep, emotional chord within her.

Just as Lucas had speculated, the boy in the vision was indeed Aether. Here, he appeared bright and cheerful—a stark contrast to the brooding, somber Abyss Prince he had become.

If Lumine knew her brother's current state, it would surely break her heart.

"Even if it's just an illusion, it's comforting to see him," Lumine said softly, turning to Lucas with a grateful smile. "Thank you."

"Don't thank me just yet," Lucas replied with a reassuring grin. "Save it for when we find your brother."

Finally, the last mirage began—the one Jean had been quietly waiting for.

In the image, Jean's family—her parents and a younger Barbara—were happily gathered together, sharing a moment of peace and joy.

Compared to Eula's ambitious vision of restoring her family's glory, Jean's dream was simple and modest—a longing for familial harmony.

When the mirage ended, Lucas handed Jean a small, ornate box.

"What's this?" Jean asked curiously.

"It's a recording of the mirage," Lucas explained with a gentle smile. "You can play it back with a projector. For you, this wasn't just an illusion—it was a memory."

Indeed, the scenes depicted in Jean's vision were moments from her past, from a time when her family was whole and unbroken.

Moved by his thoughtfulness, Jean clutched the box tightly to her chest and said earnestly, "I'll treasure this. Thank you. Good night."

"Good night."

As the hour grew late, the group, including their small emergency food, soon drifted off to sleep.

That night passed in peace and tranquility.

It had to be said—Jean's decision to let the expedition team rest at Dawn Winery was undoubtedly the right call.

There's nothing quite as comforting as waking up in a warm, cozy bed. However, this particular warmth seemed a little too comfortable—almost as if it were at a precise 36.5 degrees.

Lucas slowly opened his eyes, intending to stretch lazily as usual. But to his surprise, his arm was restrained by something—or rather, someone.

Looking down, Lucas nearly gasped aloud.

Eula was lying beside him, her arms wrapped tightly around his, her face relaxed in peaceful slumber.

Glancing around the room, Lucas noticed that Jean's bed had already been neatly made, while Lumine and Paimon were still fast asleep.

Just then, Eula stirred, rubbing her eyes groggily before slowly waking up. She froze the moment she realized she wasn't alone in bed.

"You... You've got some nerve!" Eula exclaimed, her face flushing crimson. "How dare you sneak into my bed!"

"Take another look, will you?" Lucas replied with a smile. "This is my bed!"

Eula blinked in confusion before glancing over at the other bed. Sure enough, her own bedding was tossed aside, her sheets in disarray.

"Don't tell me… Did I get up in the middle of the night and accidentally climb into the wrong bed when I came back?" she muttered to herself, trying to piece together the situation.

As a noblewoman used to her own space, Eula wasn't accustomed to shared sleeping arrangements. It wasn't hard to imagine her mistakenly crawling into the wrong bed during the night.

"Rise and shine!"

With a cheerful shout, Lumine leapt out of bed, brimming with energy. "That was the best sleep I've had in ages!"

"Yaaaawn…" Paimon stretched with a lazy yawn, still drowsy. "Can't I sleep just a little longer?"

"No slacking!" Lumine grabbed Paimon and began dragging her off the bed. "Captain Jean's already up and about!"

"But Lucas is still asleep!" Paimon pointed toward Lucas, her brows furrowed. "Wait… Where's Eula?"

Lucas stiffened, pulling the blanket higher. Underneath it, Eula huddled against his side, her presence concealed.

"She must've woken up early too," Lucas said, offering an awkward smile. "Probably went to the restroom or something."

"Really?" Paimon tilted her head, puzzled. "I didn't think Eula was the early bird type."

"Oh, she is," Lucas replied hastily. "I heard she has a… well, let's just say she has some health habits that make her get up early. Something about... needing the restroom urgently in the morning."

"Hmm…" Paimon looked unconvinced but didn't press further.

Suddenly, Lucas winced, his expression tightening as if in pain.

Under the covers, Eula had chomped down on his arm in silent fury, clearly displeased with his excuse.

"Is everything alright?" Lumine asked, raising an eyebrow. "What's under your blanket? You're holding it awfully tight."

Although the morning chill lingered, Lucas's athletic physique meant he didn't need to bundle up quite so much.

"Ah-ha!" Paimon hovered in front of him, grinning mischievously. "Are you hiding something delicious under there? Maybe… Sweet Madame?"

"Who in their right mind would stash food under their blanket?" Lucas said, hurriedly coming up with a distraction. "I... I'm used to sleeping half-naked. You guys go out first. I need to change clothes... Anyway, you should hurry! Dawn Winery's breakfast is supposed to be amazing, but if you're late, it might all be gone!"

"No way!"

At the mention of food, Paimon immediately perked up, grabbing Lumine's hand. "Let's go, quick!"

"Wait, Paimon, slow down!" Lumine protested as the little companion dragged her out of the room.

The door clicked shut, and Lucas let out a sigh of relief. He threw off the blanket, revealing Eula, still in her pajamas, biting his arm indignantly. Because of the sudden loss of the blanket, her body also subconsciously shrank slightly due to the cold.

"You're still biting me?" Lucas raised an eyebrow. "We almost got caught because of you."

"Well, whose fault is that?" Eula released his arm and glared at him. "You're the one spouting nonsense! Calling me… constipated?!"

"Well, what was I supposed to say?" Lucas retorted.

Eula puffed her cheeks in annoyance, only for Lucas to smirk mischievously. Grabbing her slender arm, he leaned down and gently bit her wrist in return.

Though he didn't bite hard, Eula yelped in surprise, snatching her arm back. Faint teeth marks were now visible on her otherwise flawless skin.

"You've got some nerve!"

Eula's face flushed even deeper as she balled her fists. "You think you can just do that? Fine, I'll bite you until you bleed! The name 'Lawrence' will be written backward if I don't!"

Her fiery declaration launched them into a playful tussle.

Their scuffle was more playful than serious, filled with light-hearted teasing. At one point, there was a faint tearing sound—the silky fabric of Eula's pajamas had ripped slightly, revealing a tantalizing glimpse of her pale skin beneath.

Realizing their close proximity, both froze. The atmosphere shifted, a faint tension filling the air.

"So…" Lucas finally broke the silence, his tone sly. "About that man in your mirage yesterday… Who was he?"

Eula's eyes widened, caught off guard by the sudden question. Already flustered, her cheeks deepened to a vivid red.

"Th-that's none of your business!" she stammered, avoiding his gaze.

"Oh? So it wasn't me, then?" Lucas feigned disappointment, letting out an exaggerated sigh. "Must've been some other man."

"I... I didn't say it was another man!" As if afraid that Lucas might misunderstand, Eula hurriedly explained, "It's... it's you, so what? It's just a fantasy, it can't be real."

"Well, if this keeps up…" Lucas leaned closer, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Maybe it'll become real."

"Tch..." Eula now had the upper hand, standing tall with a cold smirk. "You have the desire but not the guts. You're just talking big..."

Before she could finish, Lucas suddenly flipped over, turning the situation upside down in an instant, gaining control.

"Right, I do love to talk, but something else is big too," Lucas grinned. "Want to try it out?"

Although Eula is virgin, she frequently visited taverns and overheard some crude talk, so she had a general idea of what Lucas meant.

"If you dare, then go ahead," Eula didn't refuse, but scoffed. "I can't resist now anyway. If it's just to repay the favor for when you helped me, I'm fine with that."

Her words carried a mix of pride and vulnerability.

[Image here]

"Well, since you put it that way, I can't back out now." Lucas chuckled softly, brushing a stray strand of hair from her face. "Paimon was right. I hid something tasty under the blanket. Do you want to try?"

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