Genshin Impact: Villain Impact

"I want to better understand your body," Mai replied. "If I can, I might be able to assist you more effectively."

Touched by her sincerity, Lucas nodded. "Alright. Next time I have some to spare, I'll let you know."

"To prevent contamination, please allow me to collect it directly," Mai said, smiling faintly.

Lucas could only stare at her, unsure of what to make of the request.

Lucas was puzzled.

How exactly could Raiden Mai extract "that" without exposing it to air?

"Well then, I won't disturb you further, Master" Raiden Mai said, her steps noticeably lighter as she headed toward Ursa's room. "I want to conduct an analysis on the target you revived."

"Analysing her is fine..." Lucas blinked slightly. "But put down the dropper and the test tube first. Most of it will probably be consumed by Ursa before you can extract anything."

After confiscating a variety of lab tools from Raiden Mai, Lucas let her into the room.

As he turned to leave, he noticed a head quickly ducking behind a corner.

"No point in hiding," Lucas said with a smile. "Your tail's already showing."

Sure enough, the silver tail sticking out gave away Kisara, the owner of the Blue-Eyes White Dragon. She stepped out with a somewhat sulky expression and said, "I've been waiting out here forever."

"I was only healing Ursa," Lucas quickly explained.

"Oh? Just healing?" Kisara raised an eyebrow, circling behind Lucas. She leaned close, sniffed his neck lightly, and whispered, "I smell… mating."

"T-That's part of the treatment for her amnesia!" Lucas stammered. "It's… a kind of stimulus therapy."

Kisara froze, then lowered her head in silence.

Confused, Lucas gently nudged her shoulder. "What's wrong? Are you okay?"

Kisara suddenly stepped back two paces, staring at Lucas with a mix of panic and confusion. "Who are you? I don't recognize you."

Lucas rubbed his temples, exasperated. "Even if you're pretending to have amnesia, I'm not using the same therapy on you."

"I'm not pretending!" Kisara protested, sweat forming on her brow. "I really can't remember who you are!"

"Really?" Lucas squinted at her with a sly smile. "What a shame. I was planning to reward you handsomely for your recent contributions. But if you don't remember me, I suppose I'll have to skip it."

"Nooo!" Kisara clung to Lucas's arm, pouting. "What kind of reward?"

Lucas whispered a few words into her ear, causing her face to flush bright red.

"T-Then it's settled!" she stammered, her expression full of anticipation. "You're not allowed to back out!"

"Of course not," Lucas said, tousling Kisara's silver hair with a smile. "But I'm too exhausted today. Another time, alright?"

"Okay!" Kisara nodded eagerly. "Another time—no, wait, some other day—"

"Master!"

Before Kisara could finish, a gust of wind blew her back a few steps as a green-haired girl barreled into Lucas, wrapping her arms around him tightly.

The newcomer was, of course, the newly awakened Dvalin. Unlike Kisara's elegance, Dvalin wasted no time enthusiastically licking Lucas's face like an oversized, overzealous puppy.

In her human form, Dvalin appeared to be in her early teens, looking younger than Kisara. Her emerald eyes glowed faintly, bearing an uncanny resemblance to Venti's.

"Alright, alright!" Lucas wiped the saliva off his cheek, his expression a mix of amusement and awkwardness. "Do you remember me?"

"I do!" Dvalin nodded vigorously. "You are the Great Lord of Tempests, the God of Storms, and my master, Decarabian!"

"And Barbatos?" Lucas asked. "Do you remember him?"

"Not… not really," Dvalin admitted, shaking her head. "Sounds like the name of a prisoner."

As expected…

Lucas suspected that memories from the simulator had influenced Dvalin.

Unlike others whose simulator memories were limited to dreams, Dvalin had been trapped in a chaotic, maddened state for years, so the blending of two timelines' memories wasn't entirely surprising.

In any case, since Barbatos himself didn't seem to mind, Lucas decided it wasn't a problem.

"That doesn't matter anymore," Lucas said gently, pinching Dvalin's cheek. "I'm here now."

"But what about everyone else?" Dvalin asked, her face confused. "I remember the tower being lively, with the knight who drank a lot, the god who made salt, and the one who cooked terribly…"

To Dvalin, the time spent atop the tower with her companions as Decarabian's Four Winds was the happiest period of her life.

But that was from a different timeline.

In this world, the Storm God had been overthrown long ago, and none of those events had taken place.

"I'll… find them all," Lucas said soothingly. "See? I already found you."

Dvalin didn't seem to catch on that Lucas's words were mere comfort. Her eyes sparkled with excitement. "Once everyone's back, we can conquer Teyvat again, spreading your mighty storms across the world!"

Dvalin didn't fully understand the concept of "world conquest." She only knew it was her master's wish, and thus, it was hers as well.

Hearing this, Lucas felt a twinge of guilt.

This was outright treason!

But faced with Dvalin's hopeful gaze, Lucas couldn't bear to disappoint her. He nodded and said, "Once my strength is fully restored, we'll pursue our ambition."

Unbeknownst to Lucas, his offhand comment had inadvertently planted another seed of destiny.

...

"Cheers!"

To celebrate the successful resolution of the Stormterror crisis, Mondstadt—fresh off its Windblume Festival—dove into yet another round of revelry.

Even Captain Jean, usually strict, permitted the Knights to host a party within their headquarters.

As one of the main contributors to the victory, Lucas was, of course, invited along with the others.

Only Diluc outright refused Jean's invitation without a second thought.

The campaign had been a resounding success, with only minor injuries sustained by some members in conflicts with the Abyss Order.

"Ugh! I missed the final battle entirely!" Eula complained, a large beer bottle in hand. She drunkenly jabbed a finger into Lucas's chest. "This grudge… hic… I'll remember it!"

As Lumine and Paimon indulged in a feast, clearly relishing the rare opportunity for a free banquet, Kaeya suddenly stepped forward and called out, "Attention, everyone!"

All eyes turned toward him as he continued with a smile, "I have an announcement to make!"

The crowd listened intently as Kaeya declared, "Although Mr. Lucas from Liyue contributed greatly to our recent success, the true hero of this operation is none other than Captain Jean, who stood firm against all opposition to organize this campaign. Therefore, we've prepared a special gift for her!"

"What?" Jean looked genuinely surprised, though she maintained her composure with a smile. "There's no need for gifts. Protecting Mondstadt is my duty."

"No need to be modest!" Kaeya said with a chuckle, gesturing for Lucas to step forward. "Now, let our honorary knight, Lucas, present the gift personally!"

Due to their contributions during the operation, both Lucas and Lumine had been honored with the title of "Honorary Knight" of the Knights of Favonius.

Though Lumine had done relatively little, her role was still vital enough to earn her the title as well.

Lucas approached Jean with deliberate steps, pulling a small, ornate box from his pocket. Holding it out to her with a smile, he said, "Jean, please accept this."

The gesture made Jean's heart skip a beat.

She had seen scenes like this before—only in the romantic novels she secretly read, particularly during proposal chapters.

Wait a second, could the "gift" be an engagement ring?

Looking at the small box, it seemed unlikely to hold anything large.

"I... I accept…" Jean murmured instinctively.

"Ta-da!"

Lucas opened the box, but instead of a ring, a beautifully crafted card lay inside.

Jean blinked in surprise, taking the card to read the simple words written on it:

Three-Day Leave Voucher (Mandatory Use)

"Jean, you've been working far too hard," Lucas explained, scratching the back of his head. "We thought this was the most suitable gift. While it's odd to give you something that's technically already your right, you probably haven't had a proper rest in a long time."

"Thank you, everyone." Jean's eyes glistened with emotion. "I… I truly love this gift."

After all, a marriage proposal had only been a fleeting fantasy.

This gift alone was more than enough to touch her deeply.

---

The celebration lasted well into the night. By the end, almost everyone was thoroughly intoxicated. Even Venti, the Archon with a seemingly bottomless tolerance for alcohol, had fallen asleep clutching his wine jug.

Lucas, too, deactivated his [Never Drunk] ability for the night to immerse himself in the cheerful atmosphere.

"Lucas…" Jean's voice called out to him just as the party was winding down. She seemed slightly tipsy as she approached him. "May I have a word?"

"What's the matter, Jean?" Lucas stopped and turned to face her, noticing an uncharacteristic bashfulness in her demeanor.

"About tomorrow's leave…" Jean mustered her courage and said, "Would you… spend it with me?"

"Of course, I'd be happy to," Lucas replied without hesitation. "If it feels too quiet with just the two of us, we could invite a few others—"

"No, just us two." Jean quickly shook her head. "Actually, I… I'd like to experience something from a romance novel—a date!"

Indeed, almost every romantic novel Jean had read featured depictions of dates. However, she had never experienced one herself, making it a small regret in her otherwise busy life.

"Please don't misunderstand!" Jean hurriedly clarified. "I'm only doing this as research. I want to write a romance novel, so I thought I'd practice by experiencing a date firsthand…"

It was a rather flimsy excuse, and Jean's straightforward personality made it difficult for her to lie convincingly.

"I understand!" Lucas nodded solemnly. "I'll make sure to prepare thoroughly. Tomorrow, I promise you'll have a perfect date!"

As Lucas walked away, Jean felt her cheeks grow hot. But before she could collect her thoughts, a lazy voice spoke behind her.

"Young love, how delightfully bittersweet," Lisa said, holding a glass of red wine and smirking knowingly. "Captain Jean going on a date? Miracles do happen."

Jean jumped, startled. "I-I wasn't—"

"Now, now, no need to explain." Lisa grasped Jean's wrist gently, her smile playful. "This is your first date ever, isn't it? You'd better prepare thoroughly!"

---

Meanwhile, after leaving the Knights of Favonius' headquarters, Lucas didn't return home immediately. Instead, he slipped into a small, inconspicuous tavern and settled into a quiet corner.

Before long, a cloaked figure entered and sat down behind him. Beneath the hood was Lyudmila, the Electro Cicin Mage Lucas had planted as a spy within the Fatui.

"Ask quickly if you have questions," Lyudmila whispered. "Mondstadt is crawling with Fatui spies, and my movements might already be under scrutiny."

"Was it the Fatui who sent assassins to silence witnesses at the Stormterror ruins?" Lucas asked bluntly.

"It was the Fatui Harbinger, the Doctor," Lyudmila confirmed.

As I suspected!

Lucas suppressed his rising anger and asked, "Where is the Doctor now?"

"Don't act recklessly," Lyudmila warned immediately. "The Doctor is heavily guarded. It's impossible to harm her—"

"I asked, where is she?" Lucas repeated firmly.

After a moment of silence, Lyudmila discreetly passed him a slip of paper. "I need to leave."

Lucas unfolded the note under the dim tavern light, revealing a detailed floor plan of the Goth Grand Hotel. It included room assignments and even patrol routes for the guards.

---

As Lyudmila entered the Goth Grand Hotel, a Fatui agent approached her. "The Doctor is waiting in her room. Go immediately."

Lyudmila frowned but nodded. "Understood."

After glancing around cautiously, she climbed the stairs and navigated the hallways before knocking on a door.

"Come in," came the Doctor's voice from within.

Taking a deep breath, Lyudmila pushed open the door to find the Doctor, clad in nothing but a bathrobe, drying her hair with a towel. "Lyudmila, I've been looking for you. Where have you been?"

"I just… went out for a drink," Lyudmila replied truthfully.

"With whom?" The Doctor's eyes narrowed.

"Alone," Lyudmila said, meeting her gaze with a hint of wariness.

"You must think I'm an idiot," the Doctor said coldly, her smile vanishing as she stepped forward and seized Lyudmila's hair. "I know all about your betrayal!"

Lyudmila's face immediately showed a look of alarm.

The Doctor grabbed her hair and slammed her hard against the wall, her voice icy cold. "I've long planted a Transmission Stone on you. I know exactly where you've been and who you've spoken to!"

The sound of Lyudmila's collision with the wall quickly alerted the guards outside. "Doctor, is there danger?" one of the Fatui guards called through the door.

"It's nothing," the Doctor replied with a sinister grin, staring down at Lyudmila. "I'm interrogating a traitor tonight. No matter what you hear, do not disturb me."

"As you wish!"

"Lyudmila, I've treated you well. Why have you betrayed me?" the Doctor's tone was venomous. "Speak! Who was that person you met with? If you cooperate, you might suffer less."

"I'll talk! I'll talk!" Lyudmila cried in apparent terror, nodding hastily. "That person is—"

"It's me."

Before she could finish, Lyudmila's eyes turned sharp. Taking advantage of the Doctor's momentary distraction, she grabbed the Doctor's jaw and forcefully pinned her to the ground with a loud thud.

Outside, the guards heard the commotion but merely shook their heads.

"The Doctor's interrogation methods are as brutal as ever," one murmured. "That poor traitor likely won't survive the night."

---

"Lyudmila" pulled off her mask, revealing Lucas's face.

At the tavern earlier, Lucas had discovered the Transmission Stone on Lyudmila. He had written her a note instructing her to stay behind while he used the Mask of Disguise to take her place and infiltrate the Goth Grand Hotel.

Facing the person responsible for tormenting Ursa, Lucas felt no pity. The Doctor's struggles were futile, her attempts to scream muffled by Lucas' iron grip on her jaw.

Though an exceptional scientist and sadistic manipulator, the Doctor lacked physical strength and was no match for Lucas' raw power.

"If you promise not to scream, I'll let go," Lucas said, towering over her. "Nod if you agree."

A glint of cunning flashed in the Doctor's eyes before she nodded obediently.

Slap! 

Lucas struck her across the face with such force that two of her teeth flew out, clattering to the floor.

"What a heavy hand!" one of the guards outside remarked upon hearing the sharp sound. "That slap must've knocked out a few teeth."

"Quiet," the other guard muttered, frowning. "Let's move further away. We don't want to get on the Doctor's bad side."

The two guards exchanged knowing glances and walked away.

Inside the room, the once-composed Doctor was now trembling with rage and humiliation. Tears welled in her eyes as blood dripped from her mouth.

"I hate liars," Lucas said, flexing his hand. "But don't think you would've avoided that slap even if you'd been honest."

The Doctor glared at him with bloodshot eyes, but Lucas leaned closer, extending two fingers toward her face.

"Keep glaring, and I'll gouge those eyes out," he warned, making her immediately shut them in fear.

"There's no need to be so scared," Lucas said, his tone suddenly soft and calm. "I don't hold grudges overnight."

The Doctor hesitated, cautiously opening her eyes.

"Because I always settle them the same day," Lucas finished, his voice turning icy again.

Producing a sharp sewing needle seemingly out of nowhere, he added, "Relax, I'm all about fairness. Everything you did to Ursa, I'll repay twice over."

He pressed the needle against her lips, whispering, "You stitched Ursa's lips shut with twelve stitches. So, I'll give you... twenty-seven."

"Mm-mmm!" The Doctor shook her head frantically, eyes wide with terror.

"Apologies, my math isn't great," Lucas said with a mocking grin. "If you keep squirming, I might lose count and add more."

The Doctor froze in fear as Lucas worked methodically. The sharp needle pierced through her lips, drawing muffled cries of agony.

"Stop squirming," Lucas said coldly. "If I mess up the stitches, I'll have to start over."

Lucas's innate kindness and compassion were reserved only for those who deserved it. Toward his enemies, he allowed the darkness in his heart to take full control, relishing the act of retribution.

"There, perfect."

Lucas stepped back to admire his handiwork. The Doctor's lips were now tightly sewn shut, rendering her unable to speak.

"How does it feel?" Lucas asked, his tone chilling. "Do you understand now what Ursa endured?"

The Doctor's body trembled as she nodded weakly.

Lucas pulled out a small notebook, crossed off one item, and read aloud, "Next: 237 lacerations across the body…"

He closed the notebook and smirked at her. "Too hard to count. Let's round it up to 500. Your small body—how did you even manage to inflict so many wounds?"

Though his voice was filled with anger, his words carried a deeper sadness for what Ursa had suffered.

"Do you know," Lucas whispered in the Doctor's ear, "that Liyue had an ancient punishment called Lingchi? It means cutting off pieces of flesh bit by bit while keeping the victim alive. I've always wondered if it's truly possible…"

Suddenly, Lucas heard a faint sound of running water. The room filled with an unpleasant odor.

He glanced at the Doctor, whose face was flushed with shame. She had wet herself in fear.

"Tsk, tsk. Did you really wet yourself?" Lucas wrinkled his nose in disgust. "How filthy."

The Doctor's pride had been utterly shattered. Her body and mind were both ravaged by Lucas's unrelenting cruelty.

"Relax, I'm not into anything that perverse," Lucas said dismissively. "But every ounce of suffering you inflicted on Ursa—you will pay for it twofold."

The Doctor's pale skin, normally flawless, was now marred by a thin, shimmering ice blade that Lucas conjured.

He lightly dragged the blade across her back, leaving a long, bloody gash.

The combination of searing cold and sharp pain made the Doctor's body writhe uncontrollably. Each precise cut felt both freezing and excruciating.

Lucas wasn't torturing her out of rage alone. His movements were calculated, almost like a master craftsman carving into a precious gemstone. Each slice was deliberate, as if part of a dark, methodical process.

----

Blood trickled from the cuts but was quickly frozen and shattered by the icy blade's chill.

By the hundredth cut, the Doctor's body was convulsing violently.

By the two hundredth, her strength had waned under the relentless agony.

By the three hundredth, she had grown desensitized, her body flinching instinctively at each slice.

By the four hundredth, something bizarre occurred—a faint trace of pleasure seemed to mingle with her pain.

By the five hundredth cut, any normal person would have been reduced to something resembling a shredded fishing net. Yet, the Doctor's body displayed a startling regenerative ability, her wounds beginning to close almost immediately after being inflicted.

"Your body is… peculiar," Lucas muttered, tracing his finger along one of her rapidly healing gashes. "You know, powerful regenerative capabilities can be both a blessing and a curse."

A sinister grin spread across his face. "Because it means I can torment you without holding back."

Lucas's work was methodical and precise, adhering strictly to the torment described in his notebook. Every ounce of pain Ursa had suffered was repaid to the Doctor twofold.

Outside, the night gave way to dawn. The wooden floor of the room, once pristine, was now encrusted with a thin layer of blood.

The threads stitching the Doctor's lips had dissolved in her saliva, but the woman—drained of energy—could no longer muster a sound. Though her body healed, the memory of each wound seared into her psyche, a relentless echo of suffering.

"You're quite resilient to have lasted this long," Lucas remarked with a yawn. "Congratulations. We're down to the final item. Let's finish this up—I have an appointment to keep."

Unbeknownst to Jean, still peacefully asleep, the man she would meet for their date in a few hours had just carried out a brutal night of vengeance.

"Abdominal perforation," Lucas read aloud. "Depth: approximately ten centimeters."

The Doctor's eyes widened with fear. She attempted to crawl away but was caught by the ankle.

"How should I double this for you?" Lucas mused, a cruel smile curling his lips. "Your abdomen isn't thick enough for a twenty-centimeter perforation. I might need to get creative."

"No… please…" the Doctor whimpered hoarsely, pleading for mercy.

"I'll give you two options," Lucas said, his tone eerily calm. "Option one: I make two holes in your stomach. Option two… you know what."

The Doctor hesitated, her face contorted with terror. After a moment, she reluctantly raised two trembling fingers.

Even with her augmented body, capable of rapid healing, two holes in her abdomen would likely damage her organs beyond repair, potentially killing her.

"Don't regret it. This is your choice," Lucas said, pulling out his staff. "Let's enhance this a bit."

With a flick of his fingers, Lucas summoned a twisting mass of thorns and brambles, which coiled tightly around his staff. Razor-sharp barbs sprouted from the vines, transforming the staff into a horrific instrument of torment.

The sight of the weapon drove the Doctor to despair.

The pain was excruciating.

[First Cup of Red Wine activated.]

[Reward: +30% proficiency in Dendro Element.]

The door to the room creaked open as "the Doctor" emerged, her expression as composed as ever. Two Fatui guards stationed nearby bowed deeply. "Doctor, your orders?"

"I've received a classified directive from Her Majesty," the disguised Lucas said, mimicking the Doctor's voice perfectly. "I'll be departing for Liyue on a solo mission. I won't need an escort."

"Yes, Doctor!" the guards replied in unison.

"And the traitor I interrogated last night has been… humanely disposed of," Lucas added coolly. "See to it that the room is cleaned."

Though separated from the room, the guards had already caught the scent of blood wafting through the air. It was clear the interrogation had been gruesome.

Of course, this "Doctor" was none other than Lucas in disguise. The real Doctor had passed out from the final round of punishment and was safely stashed in the teapot realm, awaiting Ursa's decision on her fate.

Now wearing the Doctor's garb, Lucas exited the Goth Grand Hotel without incident. The disguise would buy time before the Fatui noticed the Doctor's disappearance—enough for Lucas to return to Liyue.

After returning home, Lucas quickly showered and dressed. Just as he prepared to leave for his date, the system suddenly chimed in.

[You're planning to go like that?]

"Why not?" Lucas asked, puzzled. "This is how I usually dress."

[That's fine for everyday life, but today is special! It's Jean's first date! At least try to look formal.]

"You make a good point…" Lucas admitted, scratching his head. "But it's too late to shop for new clothes."

[Idiot! Did you forget about the system's shop? Honestly, do you even respect me as your system?]

"The shop sells clothes too?" Lucas asked, surprised. "I thought it was for weapons and skills."

[Don't lump me in with outdated system novels! We've evolved, okay? Whether it's a nail clipper or an aircraft carrier, if you've got the points, I've got the goods!]

Lucas couldn't help but suspect the system was trying to meet a sales quota. Nonetheless, he took its advice and bought a new outfit.

The transformation was astonishing. Normally indifferent to fashion, Lucas now radiated charm. As he walked through Mondstadt's streets, passersby—especially the women—couldn't help but steal glances at him, their eyes filled with admiration.

The meeting spot was the fountain in Mondstadt Plaza, a popular rendezvous point for couples. Wanting to be considerate, Lucas arrived ten minutes early, knowing Jean would likely be punctual. A perfect date should never begin with the lady waiting.

While waiting, two young women approached him. Known for their boldness, Mondstadt girls were far more outgoing than their Liyue counterparts.

"What a handsome guy!" a short-haired girl exclaimed, her eyes twinkling. "Care to join us for a date?"

"That's not fair!" a long-haired girl protested, frowning. "I saw him first!"

"Then let's have a three-person date!" the short-haired girl teased. "I know a place where three's not a crowd."

"Sorry…" Lucas said, smiling politely. "I already have a date."

"So what?" the long-haired girl retorted, unimpressed. "Do you really think your date is better than the two of us?"

"Apologies for being late." A soft yet commanding voice interrupted their banter.

The two girls turned to see Jean standing behind them, her elegant presence radiating authority. "Would you mind letting go of my partner?"

The two girls turned to look, their expressions instantly shifting to something more complex. The long-haired girl, who had exuded confidence moments ago, now looked especially sheepish. Grabbing her companion's hand, she muttered something under her breath, and the pair quickly retreated.

It was, of course, Jean. Her appearance not only startled the two girls but left Lucas momentarily mesmerized.

Jean was always captivating, but her usual charm leaned toward a noble and commanding aura. Today, however, she was dressed in an elegant off-the-shoulder dress that flowed lightly around her. The hem stopped just above her knees, leaving her fair, slender legs free of embellishments. Her golden hair was left loose rather than tied in her customary ponytail, and she wore frameless glasses that added an air of refined intelligence.

"Lisa suggested I wear this…" Jean admitted shyly, her cheeks tinged with pink under Lucas's gaze. "Does it… look strange?"

"No, not at all," Lucas replied, shaking his head. "Actually, you look… very beautiful."

"Thank you for the compliment." Jean gave a grateful bow, her loose neckline briefly revealing the alluring curve of her collarbone. The sight was enough to make Lucas's heart skip a beat.

Fortunately, no one else was nearby. Lucas quickly steadied Jean and leaned in to whisper, "When wearing a dress, you shouldn't bend over so casually."

"Ah?" Jean blinked in realization, her fair cheeks turning crimson. "That was… terribly improper of me."

"It's fine," Lucas said with a soft smile. "Just keep it in mind for next time."

Sensing a slight change in his demeanor, Jean nervously asked, "Are you… upset?"

"A little," Lucas admitted, his gaze flickering for a moment. "Jean, you're beautiful, but there are parts of your beauty I'd like to keep all to myself."

Jean felt a warmth bloom in her chest at his words. She lightly wrapped her arm around his, smiling as she said, "At this angle, I think only you can see, right?"

Lucas glanced down and realized the proximity provided him with a perfect vantage point.

"Don't stare too much…" Jean teased softly, her lips curving into a smile. "It's not as if you'll only get to see once."

"Of course… sorry." Lucas quickly averted his eyes, though the faint fragrance wafting from Jean was enough to keep his thoughts adrift.

Jean wasn't usually this bold, but last night, Lisa had given her a crash course on dating. Along with fashion tips, Lisa had shared numerous conversational techniques and subtle gestures. Combined with Jean's extensive reading of romance novels, she was putting her newfound knowledge into practice.

Meanwhile, in the nearby Good Hunter restaurant, a young woman peeked from behind a newspaper, observing Lucas and Jean as they walked away. After hastily shoving a half-eaten plate of overly spicy steak aside, she quietly began to follow them.

The girl wore a heavily concealing outfit complete with sunglasses and a hat, though strands of her golden hair peeked out from beneath. It was none other than Barbara, Jean's younger sister.

After learning about the date, Barbara had spent a sleepless night fretting and arrived at dawn to stake out the area.

Her reason? Fear that her dear sister might fall prey to the same fate she had endured at Lucas's hands.

Although Jean had reassured Barbara that this was just a "mock date" to fulfill a romantic fantasy, Barbara remained unconvinced. She was determined not to let Lucas take advantage of Jean.

Her sister's purity must be protected!

Just as Barbara began tailing the couple, she suddenly collided with someone in front of her. "Oof!" came the sound as Barbara stumbled back.

"I'm sorry!" Barbara immediately apologized, bowing her head.

"Barbara?" a familiar voice called her name, startling her.

Looking up, Barbara was surprised to see that the person she had bumped into was Eula, another member of the Knights of Favonius. Strangely enough, Eula was also in disguise, sporting sunglasses and a hat like Barbara's.

"Eula?" Barbara asked hesitantly. "Don't tell me… you're following them too?"

"Shh! Keep your voice down!" Eula quickly clamped a hand over Barbara's mouth and whispered, "This isn't stalking—it's ensuring moral decency between a man and a woman."

Though Eula and Barbara rarely interacted, their objectives were perfectly aligned in this case.

"In that case, we might as well team up," Eula suggested with a sly grin. "Just don't slow me down."

"Don't underestimate me!" Barbara said confidently. "I have plenty of experience avoiding stalkers!"

Thanks to her popularity in Mondstadt, Barbara was often pursued by overeager fans and had honed her evasion skills to an art form.

The two quickly joined forces, shadowing Jean and Lucas as their date unfolded.

Despite their precautions, their concerns seemed unnecessary. Jean and Lucas's date was almost textbook-perfect in its innocence. They strolled through the park, shared a meal at an elegant restaurant, and even spent two hours reading together at the library.

The lack of excitement left Barbara and Eula feeling somewhat deflated.

While they didn't want Lucas to make any inappropriate moves on Jean, his lack of initiative left them feeling… bored.

"How odd," Barbara muttered, watching the pair walk side by side. "He wasn't like this with me."

"Same here," Eula grumbled through gritted teeth. "Does he only act differently around Jean?"

Both women had firsthand knowledge of Lucas's true nature. Though polite and composed on the surface, he never missed an opportunity to shamelessly tease them.

Yet with Jean, he seemed utterly respectful, refraining from even the slightest transgression.

Of course, they had no way of knowing that Jean herself was wrestling with her own thoughts. Lisa's dating lessons had emphasized that subtle physical contact could deepen intimacy, but Jean's upbringing made her hesitant to be too forward.

As the sun began to set, Jean grew anxious. Was this rare opportunity for a date going to end without anything meaningful happening?

"Hey there, you two lovebirds!" a cheerful voice suddenly called out. "You look like a match made in heaven!"

Just then, a flamboyant voice interrupted them from not far away. Turning toward the source, they saw a peculiar-looking man staring at them with a grin. "Care to try Mondstadt's very first private cinema?" he asked enthusiastically.

The man appeared to be in his thirties, dressed in an eccentric outfit, with a small mustache, sunglasses, and—most notably—a hairstyle that resembled a cow pie.

"And who are you?" Jean's expression turned cautious. "I've never seen you in Mondstadt before."

"Don't misunderstand! I'm no weirdo," the man replied hastily. "The name's Liben, from Liyue. I'm a merchant who's always seeking new business opportunities."

Liben?

Wasn't he that guy famous for handing out quests with minimal effort and generous rewards?

"A private cinema?" Jean's curiosity was piqued. "I've heard of 'cinema' as an art form from Fontaine, but I didn't know Mondstadt had plans for one."

Cinema, in simple terms, was akin to "movies" in the real world—a medium of art that had emerged following the invention of the "Recording Device." Its origins lay in Fontaine, a nation renowned for its romantic flair.

"Exactly!" Liben said with a dramatic flourish. "Building a proper cinema is costly and complicated. But a private cinema? That's another story entirely! I've rented out this inn and installed the equipment myself."

"Sounds fancy." Lucas stroked his chin thoughtfully. "But I imagine it's not cheap."

"Consider yourselves lucky—it's opening day!" Liben's enthusiasm was palpable. "Not 98,000, not 9,800, but just 998 Mora for an exclusive private screening!"

Private screening?

Jean's eyes lit up briefly. Lisa had once mentioned that a private, enclosed space was the perfect setting to deepen a couple's bond. This seemed like a golden opportunity.

"I… I'd like to watch a movie!" Jean mustered her courage and turned to Lucas. "Would you watch with me?"

"Of course," Lucas replied with a smile. "I almost forgot—a date wouldn't be complete without a movie."

"Right this way!" Liben's grin widened as he ushered them in. Leaning close to Lucas, he whispered, "I've got some real gems from Fontaine's underground market. You and your lady friend are in for a treat."

Much like in the real world, private cinemas operated in something of a legal gray area. Without proper licensing, they often showcased films not intended for public release. With cinema still a novel concept in Teyvat, regulations were sparse. Fontaine's artistic pursuits were diverse enough that it wasn't surprising for some films to push boundaries.

Inside the dimly lit room, there were no chairs—only a round bed positioned directly in front of the projection equipment.

"Do we… lie on the bed to watch?" Jean's cheeks flushed slightly.

"It's not a bad idea," Lucas replied casually, standing by the rack of film reels. "We've been on our feet all day—a bit of rest sounds nice. What do you feel like watching?"

"Let me see…" Jean stepped over to the rack, her curiosity evident. However, as she examined the titles and covers, her face grew increasingly red.

Titles included:

"That Summer, Flooded by the Water God"

"Yuheng Star and the Slime"

"The Fall of the Ice Queen"

Most of the titles were clearly gimmicky, aimed at catching the eye. They obviously didn't feature the real individuals depicted but rather actors in corresponding costumes. As for the content… the titles left little doubt about its adult nature.

Jean's embarrassment peaked when her gaze landed on one particular reel. She froze, unable to suppress her reaction. Lucas glanced over, reading the bold title on the cover:

"The Acting Grand Master Captured by Hilichurls."

The cover featured an actress cosplaying as Jean, tied to a chair, while four muscular men dressed as Hilichurls loomed behind her.

It was, in every sense, a masterpiece of unintended hilarity.

Though the props were clearly low-budget, and the actress's wig was comically plastic, the director had evidently put effort into capturing the aesthetic.

"H-how does something like this even exist?" Jean stammered, her voice trembling with a mix of shame and anger. "This is… utterly humiliating."

"It just shows how popular you are, even in other nations," Lucas said, trying to console her. "So, what do you think? Want to watch this one?"

"Absolutely not!" Jean pouted, her cheeks puffing slightly in irritation as she glared at Lucas. "Do you want to see me getting bullied by Hilichurls?"

"I was kidding!" Lucas raised his hands in surrender, quickly grabbing another reel. "How about this one? It looks like a proper romance film."

The title was "Eternal Love on the Great Ship"—a Fontaine Film Festival award-winner from the previous year. Its plot revolved around a love story between a poor boy and a wealthy girl aboard a massive ship.

It felt oddly reminiscent of Titanic.

However, the romantic image of the couple embracing on the cover caught Jean's interest. Though she'd read plenty of romance novels, she'd never experienced a romance movie before.

Blushing, Jean nodded. Lifting her skirt slightly, she climbed onto the bed and patted the space beside her with a gentle smile. "What are you waiting for? Come join me."

Lucas gulped nervously before removing his shoes. But as he climbed onto the bed, his foot slipped, sending him tumbling forward—directly into Jean's arms.

The faint, sweet fragrance of Jean's perfume filled his nose. Though reluctant, Lucas raised his head, only to find Jean staring at him in a daze. Even in the dim light, her beauty was utterly captivating.

The atmosphere was charged. At this point, not doing anything felt… impolite.

Lucas leaned in closer, and Jean responded hesitantly, her movements feeling awkward and unsure. Despite all the romance novels she had read, none had truly captured the intimate details of such moments. Their lips met in a soft, gentle kiss. Jean's eyes fluttered shut as Lucas deepened the kiss, his hand cradling her cheek with tenderness.

When they finally broke apart, Jean's cheeks were flushed, and her eyes shone with a newfound excitement."The movie… it's starting," Jean finally murmured, breaking the silence.

Only then did Lucas end the moment with a slightly flustered expression. Both of their faces were tinged with an unspoken tension as he settled beside her. Unknowingly, their hands intertwined.

Meanwhile, outside the private cinema…

"Are you two ladies interested in a screening?" Liben asked cheerfully, eyeing the oddly dressed pair before him. "I've got only the best selections from Fontaine!"

Unsurprisingly, the two were none other than Eula and Barbara, who had been tailing Lucas and Jean. Seeing the pair enter the private cinema, they weren't about to give up now.

"Yes, we'd like to try," Eula said, taking the lead. "We want the room right next to theirs."

Liben found the request a bit strange but didn't overthink it. Seeing as they were both women, he nodded. "No problem, though the films in that room are—"

"We don't care," Eula interrupted, handing over some Mora. "Just unlock it."

After all, their goal wasn't to watch a movie—they had another mission in mind.

Barbara pressed her ear against the wall as soon as they entered the room, trying to eavesdrop on any activity next door. However, all she could hear was the faint sound of a movie playing.

"Relax for now," Eula said with a shrug. "They just went in. Even if they were planning to do something, it wouldn't happen so quickly."

"Who knows if he'll be able to hold back?" Barbara huffed indignantly. "Once or twice isn't enough for that guy…"

"What was that?" Eula narrowed her eyes slightly.

"Nothing!" Barbara quickly changed the subject to cover her slip. "It's boring to just wait around. How about we watch something too? The last time I saw a movie was years ago when I visited Fontaine with my father."

"Suit yourself," Eula said dismissively, yawning. "Might as well kill time."

"Let me see…" Barbara began browsing the reels on the shelf, frowning at the peculiar titles. "Ringu," "Ju-On," "Village of the Damned," "The Shining…"

"They all sound like some boring stuff," Eula muttered, stretching. "Just pick one already."

"Fine, let's go with this." Barbara slid one of the reels into the projector. "Hopefully, it won't be too dull."

Meanwhile, next door, time ticked by as Jean found herself completely absorbed in the movie.

The plot built to its climax as the male and female leads confessed their love and began their harmonious union. The scene was daringly shot with no attempt to obscure anything, a bold seven-minute unbroken sequence meant to convey their deep emotions.

Jean watched for a moment before instinctively turning her face to glance at Lucas beside her—only to find him doing the same.

Their eyes met, while the unmistakable sounds of passion from the movie played in the background.

After a moment of silence, Jean spoke in a hushed voice, "Do you… have any thoughts?"

"Thoughts?" Lucas scratched his cheek, then replied casually, "The actress has a pretty good figure."

"Hmm…"

Hearing this, Jean's cheeks puffed slightly in annoyance, her tone turning petulant. "Better than mine?"

As a woman, hearing the man she liked compliment another woman's figure—even a fictional one—naturally sparked a twinge of jealousy.

Lucas chuckled and replied with a sly smile, "That's hard to say. After all, the actress wasn't wearing any clothes."

Jean bit her lip at his response, then muttered softly, "So… would you like to see?"

"See what?" Lucas feigned innocence, though the mischievous glint in his eye gave him away.

"Idiot…" Jean shot him a playful glare before slowly loosening the collar of her dress. She let the fabric slide down her shoulders, exposing her smooth, bare, pristine white skin. Her fingers trembled slightly as she continued to unbutton the front, each movement intentional and teasing. Lucas watched, his breath catching as more of her was revealed.

The dress finally slipped down to her waist, leaving her upper body exposed. Jean's breasts were full and round, her nipples already hardening from excitement and the cool air.

While the movie actress undoubtedly had an attractive physique, she couldn't compare to Jean's natural grace and beauty. Lucas swallowed hard, his body responding to the sight before him. Jean noticed his reaction, and a small smile crept onto her lips.

"Well?" Jean let her hands fall to her sides, a blend of confidence and shyness coloring her expression. "Compared to her, who's better?"

"Do you know," Lucas said, his gaze unwavering, "I'd gladly die in your arms."

Jean smiled faintly, leaned close to his ear, and whispered, "Then tonight… you're doomed."

----

Their eyes met, while the unmistakable sounds of passion from the movie played in the background.

After a moment of silence, Jean spoke in a hushed voice, "Do you… have any thoughts?"

"Thoughts?" Lucas scratched his cheek, then replied casually, "The actress has a pretty good figure."

"Hmm…"

Hearing this, Jean's cheeks puffed slightly in annoyance, her tone turning petulant. "Better than mine?"

As a woman, hearing the man she liked compliment another woman's figure—even a fictional one—naturally sparked a twinge of jealousy.

Lucas chuckled and replied with a sly smile, "That's hard to say. After all, the actress wasn't wearing any clothes."

Jean bit her lip at his response, then muttered softly, "So… would you like to see?"

"See what?" Lucas feigned innocence, though the mischievous glint in his eye gave him away.

"Idiot…" Jean shot him a half-playful glare before slowly undoing the collar of her dress. She let the fabric slip down her shoulders, revealing her smooth, bare pristing white skin. Her fingers trembled slightly as she continued to unbutton the front, each movement deliberate and teasing. Lucas watched, his breath hitching as more of her was revealed. The dress finally fell to her waist, leaving her top half exposed.

Jean's blonde hair cascaded down her shoulders, framing her full, round breasts. Her blue eyes shined with a mix of nervousness and excitement. Her nipples were already hard, standing erect in the cool air. Lucas couldn't help but stare, his eyes tracing the curves of her voluptuous figure.

Lucas's hands held her waist as their lips joined together. At first, Jean's lips just stuck to his, kissing him awkwardly. Then, the passion within her seemed to ignite as her lips started to suck on his, taking a taste similar to a hungry traveler finally finding paimon after a long, arduous journey.

Lucas didn't hold back as he sucked on her lips, getting a taste of that sweet, forbidden flavor. Their lips intertwined in a loving battle, with Jean showing no signs of letting go. Her hands found their way to his neck, bringing him in, and pushing him harder as her lips started to get more aggressive.

Her mouth clutched onto his lips, biting them, devouring them with as much love as possible. Lucas felt her lips smashing against his, her soft red lips taking his lower ones into her mouth as she lightly nibbled on them. After having her fill, she moved to his upper lip, giving it the same treatment.

Seconds ticked by as Jean kept tasting his lips, adamant about getting everything she could. Her hot breath hit his face, while the two of them kept looking into each other's eyes, the satisfaction of a loving kiss filling them along with a touch of the forbidden.

Finally, a few seconds later, Jean let go, her hardened breathing hitting his face.

"Huff.....huff....that was amazing," Jean said, leaning into him while her hands touched her lips, her face looking lost in ecstasy. She had the perfect look of a loving woman, her gentle blue eyes turning softer as she looked at him.

Lucas separated his mouth from Jean's and kissed her neck. Jean lifted her face and let out a moan. Lucas then licked and bit her neck softly, causing her to shiver in pleasure.

Then, he laid her on the bed. Jean's eyes had turned hazy. She was looking at Lucas with a passionate expression, hugging his neck and kissing his face crazily. Lucas responded to each of her kisses and slowly caressed her body, moving his hands to her waist and belly, and kissing her ear.

"Uhhh…"

Jean whispered in joy and moved her hands to Lucas's back. Seeing her expression, Lucas began to undress her fully. Jean sat on the bed to make it easier for him to undress it and began to take off his shirt, no words were needed to be spoken between them, as they lost themselves in lust.

In the blink of an eye, Lucas finished removing her dress. He grinned and kissed her lips while pulling the dress down slowly. Soon, their clothes were gone. Lucas looked at Jean's naked body and could not help but sigh in admiration.

Jean's skin was pale white and her body emanated a sweet scent of milk. Her breasts were perfect, to the point that Lucas could not help but want to play with them. He wrapped his hands around them.

"Ahhnnn~…"

Jean moaned loudly. Her body reacted excitedly to the feeling of his touch. She caressed his chest and searched his mouth with her tongue while he played with her breasts.

Their movements became wilder and wilder. Lucas pushed Jean down on the bed and lay on her. His mouth continued kissing her lips while his hands moved around her body, stimulating her sensitive parts and caressing her soft skin.

Jean's blue eyes were completely moist. Her blonde hair fell on the bed creating a beautiful image that captivated Lucas. His excitement shot through the roof. Feeling her body trembling below his granted him an incredible feeling of dominance.

Lucas then moved a hand between her legs. He slowly moved his hand around her thighs until reaching her cave. When his hand touched her entrance, Jean could not help but shiver. Instantly, lots of love juice flowed out of her vagina. Lucas's hands were drenched in the love juices of her first orgasm.

Jean closed her eyes and moaned satisfied. She wrapped her hands around his back and pressed her body against his. Lucas looked at her expression and grinned. Then, he bit her ear and muttered sweet words.

"You are very beautiful, Jean~"

Jean looked at him with an expression of love. She then brought her mouth towards his and whispered something.

"Lets do it~"

Hearing that, Lucas smiled as his fingers caressed the entrance of her vagina.

"Mmmhhmmm..."

Jean moaned softly and looked at him with a great amount of desire. Lucas smirked and moved his finger again. Jean was very sensitive. Her mouth quickly let out moans and groans of pleasure, and her cave turned completely wet. Lucas could feel her vagina twitching in anticipation.

But he just smirked and continued teasing her. His finger stroked her clitoris softly before pinching it, making Jean jump due to the pleasure. He then used his other hand to rub her breast. His mouth also licked and kissed her shoulders and neck. Jean twitched and twisted below him, digging her nails into his back, but she was soon overwhelmed by the pleasure.

Quicker than last time, Jean climaxed again with a scream.

"Huh… huh…"

Jean panted after the climax. Her body was twitching due to the strong stimulation it felt, and her eyelashes shivered repeatedly. But at that moment, she felt something huge and hard between her legs.

Jean opened her eyes surprised. She looked down and saw Lucas's penis standing proudly before her entrance, ready to invade the holy kingdom anytime, she gulped as she looked at him with lust and love. Lucas smiled and rubbed her entrance with it. Jean let out a gasp of surprise.

Lucas smiled and kissed her lips, then, he put his little brother in front of her cave. In the next second, he thrust his hips forward.

He slowly thrust his hips forward, moving his little friend towards her moist cave. He did not enter immediately, instead, he slowly moved his penis up and down, caressing her entrance and sending signals of pleasure to her brain.

After a few seconds, Jean began to moan again. Lucas looked into her eyes and kissed her mouth, intertwining their tongues and increasing her pleasure and excitement.

Then, he slowly continued his thrust. Jean opened her eyes wide when she felt something invading her. She hugged him tightly and tensed up her body, so he stopped. He then caressed her body softly to relax her and continued kissing her mouth and sucking her lips.

When her body relaxed again, he continued entering inside her. Jean moaned in pain and pleasure and twisted her body uncomfortably. He continued pleasuring her body while entering slowly at her cave until finally, he felt something obstructing him.

He immediately knew the identity of that obstruction. Her hymen. He did not break through it immediately. Instead, he paused and stimulated Jean's body to make her as relaxed as possible. After a few seconds, he noticed that most of her nervousness was gone, and she was beginning to breathe heavily.

He immediately knew that it was time. Thus, he thrust his hips forward. At that instant, he felt something breaking, and then, his penis advanced until the end of Jean's vagina.

Jean's walls tightened around his penis, and immense pleasure filled his entire mind.

"It hurts!"

Jean groaned and tightened her lower body to try to stop his invasion, but it only increased the pleasure he was feeling. Fortunately, his self-control was pretty good, so he did not continue his attack immediately. Instead, he waited without moving until her body got used to the pain.

She began to twist her body softly to escape from the pain as she ground uncomfortably, but he stopped her with a kiss and pinched her nipples and clitoris, diverting her attention from the pain.

Then, he began to move slowly in and out, in and out. Slowly, love juices began to flow out of Jean's womb to lubricate her walls, increasing the pleasure she was feeling and making his movements easier.

Eventually, the expression of pain disappeared from Jean's face, replaced by a slightly hazy and slightly lewd look. Just then, Jean let out a soft moan.

"Ah~"

Her moan immediately filled him with excitement, making him increase the speed of his thrusts. Slowly, the pleasure began to overcome the pain that Jean was feeling, and before long, she also started to move.

Her movements were inexperienced, but at the same time, he could not help but find them cute. The two of them completely lost themselves in the pleasure of lovemaking. Their moans and deep breaths spread through the room and the sweet smell of their sweat mixed with their love juices invaded their noses.

He sealed Jean's lips with his again and began to piston even faster. He could feel something beginning to build inside of him, but he suppressed it. He concentrated only on feeling the body of Jean and hearing her moans and groans of pleasure.

Jean's erratic movements and soft groans made him very excited. Jean twisting her body lewdly below his body filled him with an incredible sense of conquest.

But despite Jean's efforts, in the end, she was inexperienced when it came to sex. Before long, she became tired and her movements stopped completely. She could only receive his thrusts passively and moan in pleasure every time that his hips hit her pelvis.

At that moment, he moved his mouth to her breasts and sucked her right breast fiercely as he bit her nipples slightly.

"!!!"

Jean's eyes opened widely and a moan escaped from her lips. The combination of pain and pleasure caused her body to twitch and her lower cave to clench his penis tightly.

He grunted in pleasure and thrust his penis fiercely, making Jean moan once and again. Her body turned completely soft, and her eyes became hazier and hazier.

Her mind began to turn white, and she could only murmur his name repeatedly between moans. When he saw that, he realized that she was close to cumming again and sped up his thrusts.

"Ahhhnnn~!"

Jean grabbed the sheets of the bed with a hand and used her other hand to grab his back. He felt her nails piercing his skin slightly, but his lower body continued moving despite that.

"Lucas~… Something… Something is coming~…"

Jean screamed with a nervous and expectant tone. He hugged her body and pressed her against the bed with all his strength. Finally, he thrust inside her deeply. Instantly, her body shivered completely, and her expression melted. At the same time, her cave clenched his penis fiercely as though it wanted to suck his seeds out.

He grunted and continued thrusting his penis until finally, he felt something building in his abdomen. Without hesitation, he decided to release it and started to thrust his penis inside her even harder than before. In the next second, a load of semen was shot inside Jean.

"Yes~…"

Jean moaned again when his semen was shot inside her womb. Feeling the warm semen inside her, her body twitched slightly and she groaned as she hugged his body tightly. A sigh of satisfaction escaped from his lips. Seeing her in that state, he felt a great sense of achievement.

[R18 End]

["First Glass of Red Wine" activated.]

[Reward: Anemo Element Mastery +50%.]

The movie was lengthy, which worked in their favor—Lucas had plenty of time.

After the first battle subsided, both seemed to harbor a lingering hunger. Finding a worthy match wasn't an everyday occurrence, after all.

Among all the human women Lucas had ever encountered, Jean's physical strength and stamina were unparalleled. In their "battles," he could almost envision her riding a horse across the plains, fearless and free.

Of course, Lucas was the horse.

After a brief rest, Jean took Lucas's hand and murmured, "Do you remember when we merged during our fight against Ursa? That sensation?"

"Of course," Lucas nodded. "It felt like I could sense your every feeling. When you were hurt, I felt the pain too."

"Exactly. Don't you think that was amazing?" Jean closed her eyes, reminiscing. "I've been wondering… if all sensations are doubled in that state, wouldn't that mean… double the pleasure as well?"

Jean's musings instantly piqued Lucas's interest. A sly grin spread across his face. "You want to test that theory?"

"Is that even possible?" Jean asked, genuinely surprised. "I was just thinking out loud."

"That's not good enough," Lucas said, shaking his head. "Now you've got my curiosity going."

Without hesitation, Lucas pulled out the fusion card and held Jean's hand. "Soul Link: Fuse."

In an instant, their consciousnesses and bodies fused once more.

When Jean opened her eyes, they found themselves in that familiar void. Their forms were an ethereal overlap of spirit and flesh.

In unison, they extended their hands, fingertips brushing against each other. Both felt not only their own touch but also the sensation of the other's.

What followed was an experience neither could have anticipated—true, doubled bliss.

.....

Meanwhile, in the room next door, Barbara and Eula were huddled together in fear.

Little did they know how terrifying horror films could be.

Barbara, naturally timid, was already trembling just from the eerie sound effects. The suspenseful visuals only worsened her plight.

Even Eula, seasoned from years of battle and accustomed to gore, found the supernatural elements unsettling. She managed to keep watching, but her usual composure had long since eroded.

At this point, neither of them was concerned about what might be happening in the adjacent room.

---

"How was it? Enjoyed the movie?" Liben asked with a knowing smile as he looked at Lucas and Jean, who were still basking in the afterglow of their time together. "See? Watching movies together really brings couples closer. At this rate, my business is going to thrive! I'm a genius businessman!"

Jean, however, coughed lightly and produced several "inappropriate" film reels from behind her. Her expression turned serious as she declared, "Many of the films you're providing here don't comply with regulations. This establishment will need to temporarily close for reorganization."

"What? On what grounds?" Liben exclaimed, his surprise evident. "And who are you to interfere?"

"I am the acting Grand Master of the Knights of Favonius," Jean replied sternly. "Since this is your first offense, I won't pursue it further. But you need to fix this."

Liben, new to Mondstadt, had not anticipated encountering someone as untouchable as Jean on his very first day of business. He let out a heavy sigh but quickly regained his composure. "No worries. Entrepreneurship is always tough at the start. I'll definitely find a new opportunity soon!"

"Mondstadt welcomes new ideas," Jean said with a nod. "Of course, as long as they fall within legal boundaries."

"Jean..." Lucas sighed in exasperation. "You're doing it again. Don't forget, today is your day off. Stop worrying about work."

"Sorry, old habits die hard," Jean admitted with a wry smile. "Even though taking a break is relaxing, if I go a day without working, I feel... unfulfilled."

Lucas raised an eyebrow. "Are you saying today wasn't 'fulfilling'?"

Jean blinked in confusion before realizing his implication. Her face flushed red as she muttered, "If anything, it was... too fulfilling. I'm practically overflowing."

"Big sister!"

Jean's words were interrupted as a heavily "armored" blonde girl suddenly leaped into her arms, crying pitifully. "It was so scary! I'm never watching a horror movie again!"

"Barbara?" Jean asked, startled. "What are you doing here?"

"Your sister has quite the faint heart," said Eula from behind, looking composed as ever. However, after taking a few steps, she nearly stumbled, her legs clearly unsteady. Thankfully, Lucas caught her just in time.

"Eula?" Lucas asked, piecing things together. "Were you two following us?"

"Who knows what you might have tried to do to my sister?" Barbara accused, glaring at him. "I had to protect her, no matter what!"

"Let me guess..." Eula furrowed her brow. "What exactly were you two doing in there?"

Lucas and Jean's expressions both turned awkward.

Fortunately, their "connection" during the film had been facilitated through their "Spiritual Bond," sparing them the trouble of producing any compromising noises that might have echoed across half of Mondstadt.

"Nothing... nothing at all," Lucas said with a sheepish smile. "We were just watching a movie."

"Really?" Eula's tone dripped with skepticism. "A beautiful girl lying next to you for hours, and you expect me to believe you did nothing? Do I look that gullible?"

After all, she had firsthand experience. When they were together, it hadn't even been thirty minutes before she'd been... overwhelmed.

And these two had been inside for over two hours!

Before Lucas could offer any more excuses, a familiar voice called out, "Brother Lucas, there you are!"

He turned to see Zhang Luo, a familiar face, hurrying toward him. "Brother Zhang, what's the matter?" he asked.

"It's Lady Keqing," Zhang Luo replied, catching his breath. "It seems we've been delayed in Mondstadt longer than anticipated. She recently sent word, asking us—especially you—to return to Liyue immediately. She has an important task for you."

Lucas had nearly forgotten his role as a retainer of the Yuheng of the Liyue Qixing, Keqing.

Though his time in Mondstadt had been relatively brief, so much had happened that it often made him forget his other responsibilities.

"I understand," he said with a nod. "When do we leave?"

"Tomorrow morning," Zhang Luo replied. An experienced man, he quickly noticed the complex emotions on the faces of the three women around Lucas. With a grin, he said, "I'll leave you all to say your goodbyes. See you tomorrow."

As Zhang Luo departed, the air grew heavy with unspoken words.

"Lucas..." Jean asked softly, her voice tinged with sadness. "You're leaving tomorrow?"

"Yes," Lucas said with a nod.

"Is there no way... for you to stay?" Jean mustered her courage. "Whether it's with the Knights of Favonius or the Gunnhildr family, there will always be a place for you here."

Her words left little doubt about her feelings. If Lucas agreed, he could easily join the prestigious Gunnhildr family and live a comfortable life in Mondstadt.

But he shook his head. "Liyue is my home," he said firmly. "There are still many things waiting for me to accomplish there. You, as the acting Grand Master, should understand that feeling, shouldn't you?"

Jean fell silent, contemplating his words. She finally smiled gently, though a hint of sorrow lingered. "You're right. We're both still young, with plenty of time ahead of us. Thank you for giving me a perfect day. I'll always remember this."

"What about you two?" Lucas turned to Eula and Barbara, his tone teasing. "I'll miss you both. After all, we've been through quite a lot together, haven't we?"

Barbara and Eula exchanged uneasy glances, their expressions betraying the secrets they shared with him. Both of them had memories with Lucas that were... less than ordinary, and revisiting them now made their cheeks flush.

"Go if you must," Eula finally said, crossing her arms with a huff. "But remember this: one day, I'll defeat you and reclaim the Lawrence family's ancestral sword. Until then, you'd better not lose to anyone else."

Barbara hesitated, fidgeting before speaking in a soft, almost tearful voice. "Will you come back?"

"Of course," Lucas assured her with a smile. Extending his pinky, he added, "Mondstadt is my second home. If you don't believe me, let's pinky swear."

"I'm not a child anymore..." Barbara protested, though she still hooked her pinky with his. "But if you break your promise, you'll have to swallow a billion needles!"

"That's a bit extreme, isn't it?" Lucas chuckled nervously.

After their farewells, the three women turned to leave. The setting sun cast long shadows behind them, leaving Lucas with a bittersweet sense of loss.

The chapter of Mondstadt had come to an end, but his journey as a so-called villain had only just begun.

.....

Back in Liyue

Lucas returned to Keqing's estate with mixed feelings of anticipation and unease.

"Back already?" Keqing greeted him in her study, her sharp eyes scanning him with a hint of surprise.

For some reason, she found him subtly changed. Though it had only been a few weeks, Lucas now exuded an air of strength and confidence she hadn't seen before—a transformation that bordered on the extraordinary.

"I'm back," he replied with an awkward scratch of his head. "Sorry, Lady Keqing. I was delayed by... a few minor matters."

"Minor matters?" Keqing raised an eyebrow. "Do you mean apprehending a serial killer? Stirring up trouble with the Lawrence clan? Or leading the charge in the Knights of Favonius' campaign against Stormterror?"

Lucas was taken aback and forced a sheepish smile. "So, you already knew everything, huh?"

"Don't underestimate the intelligence network of the Liyue Qixing," Keqing said as she stood and circled him, her scrutinizing gaze brimming with suspicion. "I'm growing more curious. Why is someone as competent as you hiding your abilities to work as a mere retainer?"

"Those were just strokes of luck," Lucas quickly explained. "Besides, if you hadn't given me this opportunity, none of those events would have even happened."

"That may be true, but I still think..." Keqing shook her head, her tone decisive. "Someone like you is wasting your potential as a retainer."

"Miss Keqing..." Lucas raised an eyebrow. "Don't tell me you're planning to fire me?"

Even though Lucas now possessed enough strength and resources to establish himself independently in Liyue, he still wanted to repay Keqing for her trust and support.

"Not at all," Keqing replied with a faint smile. "I actually have a task for you. If you complete it, consider it... a promotion."

A promotion? What could a retainer be promoted to? Head of the retainers?

As Lucas looked at her in confusion, Keqing suddenly shifted the topic. "How much do you know about the Liyue Qixing?"

Lucas answered honestly, "They're the esteemed governors of Liyue, only entrusted to individuals as capable and brilliant as yourself."

"Spare me the flattery," Keqing said, though she clearly appreciated it. "Among the Qixing, the Tianshu has grown quite old and is currently in poor health. We need to appoint a successor quickly, but finding a suitable candidate has been difficult. As a result, we've decided to hold a 'selection process.' While applicants can register for consideration, each member of the Qixing also has the privilege of nominating one candidate."

"I see!" Lucas exclaimed in realization. "You want me to help find someone suitable to recommend, right?"

"No."

Keqing raised her hand and pointed directly at Lucas. "The person I'm recommending is you."

"What?" Lucas was utterly shocked. "Someone like me, a newcomer with no reputation, has no qualifications to compete for a seat among the Liyue Qixing! I'd be a laughingstock! Please, choose someone more suitable."

"You're not wrong. The candidates for Tianshu should indeed have experience and prestige," Keqing admitted with a nod. "But with your accomplishments—such as helping to subdue Stormterror—you've more than proven yourself. And let's not forget the endorsements of the Acting Grand Master of the Knights of Favonius and the owner of Dawn Winery."

Indeed, Lucas's time in Mondstadt had significantly elevated his standing. Even Keqing hadn't expected such a rapid transformation.

"Still," Lucas said hesitantly, "I don't understand why you'd choose me. Surely, there are others more qualified?"

"Because you're clean," Keqing replied, her answer somewhat cryptic. "The Fatui have long been infiltrating Liyue. With so many participants in this selection process, there's a risk that someone loyal to Snezhnaya could claim the Tianshu seat. The consequences would be catastrophic."

Her solution was straightforward: nominate someone with no questionable affiliations—a person without a suspicious past.

Although Keqing harbored her own doubts about Lucas's character, the urgency of the situation left her with little room for alternatives. Of course, her decision wasn't entirely selfless.

The nominees for the Tianshu position would naturally be allies or confidants of the recommending Qixing member. If one of them succeeded, it would inevitably strengthen their recommender's influence among the Qixing.

For Keqing, nominating Lucas was both a calculated risk and a strategic opportunity.

Lucas remained uncertain. "I don't know if I..."

"I won't ask you to do this for nothing," Keqing said, placing a hand on his shoulder with uncharacteristic seriousness. "If you succeed, I'll grant you one request."

"A request?" Lucas was caught off guard.

"Anything within my power," Keqing confirmed. "Whether it's wealth, rare treasures, or powerful weapons."

As Lucas stared at the poised and elegant young woman before him, his bracelet—the Ring of Manipulation—subtly glimmered with a faint pink hue.

"If I agree to this..." Lucas said almost reflexively, "Are you sure any request is fine?"

"Of course!" Keqing replied earnestly. "As long as it's within my ability and doesn't violate laws or morals, I'll honor it."

"Words alone won't do," Lucas said, moving to her desk and picking up a sheet of paper. "Let's put it in writing. Surely, you don't mind?"

"Naturally," Keqing said without hesitation. She quickly drafted and signed a formal agreement. "You have my word. I've never gone back on a promise."

Keqing assumed Lucas would request something material—money or valuable items. Such things were trivial to her and her wealthy household.

"Very well, I'll keep this agreement safe," Lucas said, carefully pocketing the contract. "When does the selection process start, and what does it involve?"

"If it's purely a test of combat skills," he added, "then I feel fairly confident."

Keqing answered, "The exact date hasn't been set, but it'll be within the month. As for the content, only the current Tianshu decides the challenges. The other Qixing members aren't informed."

"Let's hope it won't be too challenging," Lucas said with a sigh.

"Knowing the Tianshu, the selection will likely involve a variety of tests," Keqing reassured him. "But don't worry too much. For now, take these days to rest and prepare yourself."

Lucas nodded, thanked her, and took his leave.

As she watched him walk away, Keqing's expression turned introspective. She murmured to herself, "I just hope I've made the right decision..."

.....

"Finally home!" Lucas exclaimed as he flopped onto his bed. "Nothing beats my own place, no matter how fancy the alternatives."

[Congratulations! Looks like you're about to become an important official!] the system chimed in.

"Don't get ahead of yourself," Lucas said with a yawn. "This isn't some simple neighborhood election—it's a seat among the Liyue Qixing."

[But if you win, won't you get to boss Keqing around? Maybe even make her do... naughty things?]

"Hey, don't put words in my mouth!" Lucas protested. "I've never said—or even thought—about doing anything inappropriate to her."

[Oh, really? Because your face earlier said otherwise. Are you telling me you didn't have even a single improper thought?]

Lucas faltered, his face growing hot. "Well... I mean, everyone's allowed to daydream, right? No harm in thinking. As they say, thoughts don't count as actions."

Indeed, as he had signed the contract earlier, Lucas had entertained fleeting fantasies. If he became the Tianshu, the agreement would allow him to ask for anything from Keqing. The possibilities, whether marrying her or requesting... "favors," were endless.

The mere thought of having the proud and dignified Yuheng yield to his whims sent a thrill through him.

After all, a high ranking and powerful woman can arouse a man's desire to conquer.

[Anyway, since you've decided to participate, make sure to take the time to improve your strength! You haven't used the simulator these past few days, and there are no distractions right now, so it's a good opportunity.]

"As expected, after all that talking, you're just trying to get me to play the simulator,'' Lucas said with a smile. ''Alright, then I'll play a round before bed."

[Please select three talents from the options below. One will be randomly retained as a permanent talent after the simulation ends.]

[Beastmaster (Green)]: You can easily tame wild animals as pets.

[Finance Manager (Green)]: You excel at managing finances and will seldom experience poverty.

[Charming Aura (Green)]: You naturally attract the attention of the opposite gender.

[Extraordinary Bloodline (Purple)]: You possess a unique bloodline with extraordinary gifts and physique.

[Innate Cuteness (Blue)]: During childhood, you easily earn others' affection.

[Calamity Star (Blue)]: Those around you are more prone to misfortune, but you're remarkably protected from disasters.

[Humble Origins (White)]: You are born into a poor family.

[Clever and Mischievous (Blue)]: You are highly intelligent but also quite playful.

[Forty and Wise (Blue)]: At 40 years old, your talents will significantly improve.

[Pure Lifestyle (Green)]: You naturally resist all bad habits.

Having used the simulator numerous times, Lucas had developed a strategy: selecting talents that complemented each other. Synergistic talents often yielded greater results, while conflicting ones proved ineffective.

After careful thought, he chose [Extraordinary Bloodline], [Innate Cuteness], and [Clever and Mischievous] to maximize his early growth.

[Talents Confirmed!]

[Simulation Starting...]

[Before Birth: On a fateful day in Liyue, the land was thrown into chaos when four legendary beasts—Chaos (Hundun), Gluttony (Taotie), Ignorance (Taowu), and Deviousness (Qiongqi)—emerged, wreaking havoc and causing widespread suffering. The citizens of Liyue fought valiantly, but the cunning beasts proved elusive. The Geo Archon, unwilling to see his people suffer, summoned his loyal followers to subdue the beasts. Chaos was sealed by Yaksha; Ignorance was destroyed by the adeptus Moon Carver; Deviousness was defeated by Mountain Shaper. As for Gluttony, the task was entrusted to the adeptus Cloud Retainer's foster daughter, Ganyu, as part of her training.]

(AN: They are some legendary beasts from chinese mythology but I am gonna use their english names)

[Age 0: You are born in a hidden cave. Your mother is none other than Beast of Gluttony herself. (Talent: Extraordinary Bloodline activated.) Due to your unique lineage, you gain awareness shortly after birth.]

[Although your mother is a fearsome beast, she loves you deeply. After your birth, she refrains from committing atrocities and devotes herself entirely to caring for you.]

[However, your peaceful days are short-lived. Your mother's whereabouts are discovered. Weakened from childbirth, she knows the fight ahead is hopeless. After feeding you for the last time, she steps out of the cave to face her fate. The sound of a fierce battle soon echoes outside. You huddle in a corner, trembling with fear.]

[After a long time, the sounds of fighting subside. Heavy footsteps approach the cave. Summoning your courage, you lift your head and see a blue-haired woman with horns holding a bloodstained bow. The scent of your mother's blood lingers around her.]

[Entering immersive mode...]

[Objective: Survive.]

What's going on? Lucas thought in alarm. Starting directly in immersive mode?

When Lucas opened his eyes again, he found himself in the dark, damp cave, inhabiting the body of a young Gluttony. He hadn't yet taken human form; his small, clawed hands were soft and chubby. Despite being the offspring of a legendary beast, he looked unexpectedly adorable, round and plump like a stuffed toy.

Standing before him was Ganyu, her bow raised, an icy arrow nocked and aimed at him. Unlike the Ganyu Lucas remembered—gentle and kind—this Ganyu exuded a chilling aura of bloodlust.

"So that's why the beast guarded the cave so fiercely," Ganyu murmured to herself, her voice tinged with melancholy. "Cloud Retainer always said to root out all evil. I'm sorry, little one, but you were born into the wrong bloodline."

Terrified, Lucas instinctively closed his eyes and shielded his head with his small claws. Was he about to fail this simulation at the very start?

After half a minute of silence, Lucas peeked through his claws. To his relief, Ganyu had lowered her bow. Her expression was conflicted as she muttered, "I can't do it. It hasn't done anything wrong. How can I kill an innocent child?"

Ganyu, inherently kind-hearted, could not bring herself to slay the defenseless cub, despite its lineage.

Turning her back to Lucas, she said quietly, "Without your mother, you'll never survive in this place. Still, that is better than me taking your life. Farewell."

As Ganyu walked away, Lucas felt a brief wave of relief. However, the moment was cut short by the sound of low growls. From the shadows, two large demonic wolves emerged, their glowing green eyes fixed hungrily on the Gluttony cub.

Without the presence of Gluttony, these lesser beasts saw her offspring as an irresistible feast. Saliva dripped from their fanged mouths as they advanced.

Just my luck, Lucas thought. Looks like this simulation is heading for a "failure speedrun."

One of the wolves lunged, its jaws open wide. At the last second, a brilliant blue arrow shot through the air, striking the wolf and pinning it to the cave wall. Ice quickly spread from the wound, freezing the wolf solid.

The arrow, powerful and precise, had killed the wolf instantly. Its body hung lifeless, encased in ice.

The second wolf whimpered at the sight of its fallen companion and quickly fled into the shadows.

Ganyu, who had returned unexpectedly, stood at the cave entrance, bow in hand. Her crimson-streaked face softened as she approached the trembling cub.

Kneeling, she hesitated before extending a hand toward Lucas. "Leaving you here is no different from killing you myself," she said, her voice gentle yet firm. "Good and evil cannot be judged by lineage alone. I'll take you in and raise you properly. Even a beast can be taught to walk the path of righteousness."

Ganyu sighed, her lips curling into a faint, bittersweet smile. "Not that you understand anything I'm saying right now. Maybe it's for the best. Forget the past; from today onward, you are my child."

Ganyu, naturally unaware of the young beast's high intelligence, believed that if she adopted the cub while it was still too young to understand its past, it would grow up forgetting its origins and come to view her as its mother.

Carefully cradling Lucas' tiny form, Ganyu gently patted him. His small size, comparable to that of a tiger cub, fit snugly in her arms. The warmth of her embrace and the steady rhythm of her heartbeat gradually eased his earlier panic.

While Lucas was conscious that Ganyu was the slayer of his "mother," his emotions in this immersive simulation differed from his usual mindset in the simulator.

Lucas in the simulator will naturally have a grudge and even hatred towards Ganyu.

Lucas in the immersive mode, however, adhered to the principle of "if there's a chance, take it," and immediately enjoyed Ganyu's embrace.

Seeing the little cub so docile and adorable in her arms, Ganyu's unease began to subside. Adopting the child of a fearsome beast was a decision most people would neither understand nor accept. Moreover, as someone with qilin blood running through her veins, this secret was one she couldn't share—not even with her foster mother, Cloud Retainer.

"Waaah!"

Suddenly, the cub in her arms began wailing loudly. It wasn't a deliberate act on Lucas's part—his body, still bound by the instincts of a beast cub, was crying from hunger.

Caught off guard, Ganyu froze briefly but quickly composed herself. Though she had no experience as a mother, her 3,000 years of life gave her ample knowledge: an infant's cries usually meant it was hungry.

However, this remote cave offered no suitable food for the cub.

Lucas' cries grew louder by the moment. Gluttony, as a legendary beast of insatiable appetite, had offspring that instinctively viewed eating as a fundamental need. When unfed, they would cry ceaselessly.

A worried expression crossed Ganyu's face. If the cub cried too much, it might attract unwanted attention when they returned to Liyue.

"Food! Food!"

Desperately scanning her surroundings, Ganyu's gaze eventually fell upon her chest. A realization struck her. "Wait, perhaps… I could…"

Unlike ordinary humans, Ganyu's qilin lineage allowed her to absorb ambient energy and spiritual essence effortlessly. As a child, this uncontrolled absorption often led to the excess energy converting into additional body fat.

To address this, Ganyu had developed a method of expelling surplus energy by transforming it into a nutrient-rich liquid. However, since this substance came from an unconventional source, Ganyu had always poured it into her garden as fertilizer.

Her garden flourished beautifully as a result, a testament to its nutritional value.

"Well, since I've decided to raise you, I must fulfill my duties as a mother," Ganyu murmured, stroking Lucas's tiny head. "I hope this satisfies you."

Though her actions were somewhat clumsy, Lucas's instincts kicked in. He quickly nestled closer and latched on. Despite having no teeth, his gentle motions still made Ganyu wince slightly. A faint blush spread across her pale cheeks.

[Task Completed: Survive.]

[Reward Acquired: Ganyu's Qilin Essence.]

[Effect: Cryo Elemental Mastery +30%.]

What the…? Lucas's mind reeled. This reward is amazing!

One sip, and I get this much power? If I could drink this regularly, I might outshine even the Cryo Archon someday!

Of course, Lucas knew this was a fantasy. The system granted rewards only for the first time. Still, he found the process of obtaining the reward even more enjoyable than the reward itself.

Half an hour later.

"Mmm…"

Having eaten his fill, Lucas smacked his lips and dozed off in Ganyu's arms. Watching the sleeping cub's innocent face, Ganyu felt a strange mix of emotions: pity, worry, and a hint of maternal affection.

She had no idea if adopting a legendary beast's cub was the right decision. Yet, holding this little one in her arms awakened her innate sense of nurturing.

Suddenly, something extraordinary happened. The young beast's body began to transform at a visible pace. Its soft fur receded, replaced by smooth, baby-like skin. Its face also changed, taking on the features of a human infant—chubby cheeks, delicate features, and an undeniable cuteness.

The transformation was likely triggered by the powerful energy of Ganyu's qilin essence, granting Lucas the ability to take on human form much earlier than expected.

Examining him closely, Ganyu's cheeks flushed as she muttered, "So… you're a boy."

[Exiting Immersive Mode.]

[Entering Text Mode.]

[Ganyu brings you back to Liyue, claiming that during her battle with Gluttony, she stumbled upon a family devastated by the beast. You, as their orphaned child, were the only survivor. Out of pity, she took you in.]

[Wanting to guide you away from an dark path, Ganyu names you Lucas, meaning "light-bringer" or "man of light", hoping you will grow up to be virtuous.]

[As one of Liyue's few adepti and a senior envoy of Yuehai Pavilion, Ganyu's decision to adopt a child attracts widespread attention.]

[Despite Ganyu's explanation, rumors circulate. Some claim you're not an adopted orphan but her illegitimate child.]

[Even the Liyue Qixing advises Ganyu to send you to an orphanage, citing that her unmarried status and sudden adoption might tarnish her reputation and complicate her duties.]

[However, Ganyu remains steadfast, brushing aside gossip and firmly resolving to raise you herself.]

[Age 1: Under Ganyu's care, you grow up healthy and adorable, charming everyone around you. (Talent Activated: Innate Cuteness.)]

[Since adopting you, Ganyu's nutrient-rich essence is no longer wasted, as you consume all of it eagerly. However, you refuse to drink from a bottle and insist on feeding directly from the source.]

[Normally, Ganyu's essence contains immense energy—far too potent for most creatures, even young qilin. However, your Gluttony bloodline grants you unparalleled digestive power, allowing you to convert all nourishment into strength.]

[Unbeknownst to Ganyu, you retain your memories as a beast cub and still see her as the slayer of your mother.]

[Despite this, you understand that you currently stand no chance against her. To avenge your mother, you focus on growing stronger.]

[To you, Ganyu is a walking treasure trove of resources. You relentlessly consume her essence, both to increase your power and to deplete hers.]