Honkai Simulator: Start with Confessing to The Herrscher of Finality

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While Xia Chen's days on Coral Island passed uneventfully,

Kiana's time at Schicksal Headquarters felt like pure torment.

She admitted it; she missed Saint Freya dearly.

The meals at Schicksal Headquarters were not inadequate, resources were plentiful, and Kiana's determination remained unwavering.

However, the immense pressure from the Immortal Blades was overwhelming.

'As the daughter of Lady Cecilia, Valkyrie Kiana Kaslana, who receives daily guidance from Lady Durandal herself, should excel academically.'

This fact left Kiana feeling quite embarrassed.

She genuinely tried her best to study, but without Mei's attentive tutoring or Bronya's exceptional coaching skills, it proved challenging. The teachers here lectured too swiftly; before she could even take notes, they had already moved onto the next topic.

All Valkyries faced this same teaching pace from their instructors.

Thus, Kiana's poor performance in theoretical exams baffled not only her but also Lady Durandal.

In Durandal's perception, Cecilia's daughter ought to be flawless in every aspect.

Rita found herself torn between amusement and concern over Durandal's belief. As Kiana and Durandal grew closer during this period, Rita's worries intensified. She wondered how Lady Durandal would cope when eventually learning the truth.

As for keeping this secret forever—Rita never entertained such naive thoughts.

Even if she didn't reveal it, Bishop Otto would eventually disclose the truth himself.

This present bliss seemed to foreshadow future tragedy, causing Rita's worries to grow recently.

Meanwhile, back in their quarters, Durandal continued questioning Rita with concern, "Rita, what do you think we can do to improve Kiana's grades in academics?"

"As an A-rank Valkyrie, she shouldn't be completely clueless. Even Susannah, who is quite oblivious, diligently studies theoretical knowledge. Why doesn't Kiana understand these basics?"

In the Immortal Blades' training room, Susannah sneezed.

Watching the anxious Durandal, Rita couldn't help but sigh. She felt that only Durandal lacked the right to call others 'clueless.'

"Lady Bianka, everyone has different strengths; not everyone possesses your natural talent. Moreover..." Rita paused before continuing, "According to Schicksal's records, Kiana officially began her education within Schicksal from March 2014 onwards. Prior to that, her limited schooling did not adequately prepare her for understanding the world."

"Perhaps it's due to the indolent habits she developed while wandering, compounded by Lady Theresa's indulgence, that Kiana has become so lethargic."

"What you need is to give her more time."

Rita had never seen Durandal show such concern for anyone before. It even stirred a hint of jealousy within her.

If given the choice, however, Kiana wouldn't want this kind of attention.

"Mei..."

In her room at night, video chatting with Raiden Mei was now Kiana's sole source of entertainment.

"I still didn't pass my exam."

Kiana tried speaking in her usual tone, but the exhaustion and weariness on her face were impossible to hide.

Raiden Mei had no intention of scolding her; instead, she smiled warmly. "It's okay, failing is just part of learning."

"No one says you have to pass every test," she reassured Kiana. "Once you're back here, I'll personally make your favorite drumsticks for dinner."

Now, Raiden Mei deeply regretted not preparing Kiana's favorite meal before she left.

"I knew you were always the best to me, Mei! Don't worry; I'll be back soon." Kiana paused before continuing, "Once I become an A-rank Valkyrie, I can request assignment to Coral Island. Then, I'll finally get to return to the academy. You have to wait for me, Mei."

This was how she motivated herself during this time.

Without giving herself a compelling reason to persevere, she likely would've collapsed under the relentless training and theoretical studies long ago.

Raiden Mei nodded. "Mm-hmm, but make sure to take care of yourself too. If you fall sick over there, no one will be around to look after you."

"Don't worry, I'm strong enough to take down a bull right now," Kiana chuckled confidently.

Only Raiden Mei and Bronya treated her without regard for her name or past. As such, Kiana relied heavily on her relationships with them—these bonds provided warmth amidst her struggles.

After reluctantly bidding farewell to Raiden Mei, Kiana took a deep breath.

Then, she resumed studying.

Even Sirin couldn't help but marvel at Kiana's unwavering determination. Reflecting upon it, Sirin admitted that if she were in Kiana's shoes, she probably wouldn't last long before breaking down.

Wait, hold up.

After all, she's the Queen—why should she have to endure exams and training like mere humans?

But...

Considering how exhausted Kiana must be, Sirin decides not to bother her tonight. It's definitely not because she has developed any fondness for Kiana; it's merely admiration.

Of course, the one most closely observing Kiana wasn't Durandal or Raiden Mei—it was Otto.

Ever since Kiana arrived at Schicksal Headquarters, Otto had been keeping a daily eye on her. Despite this, they hadn't directly interacted yet.

His choice of vessel indeed proved correct.

Although Kiana hasn't faced hardships' refining touch, she perseveres amidst the Immortal Blades' rigorous environment.

It's worth noting that Durandal personally trained Kiana during this period.

Kiana didn't falter, demonstrating remarkable resilience. However, her poor theoretical knowledge foundation left Otto torn between laughter and tears. Could Sirin's genes truly have such a profound impact?

Fortunately, the Kaslana genes are exceptionally robust. While Kiana's shallow theoretical knowledge surprised Otto, her performance in other areas remained commendable.

Now it seemed that all Kiana lacked was experiencing some 'suffering.'

However, Otto couldn't help but wonder how deeply the Coral Island's Honkai event would affect her.

"It's unfortunate we have such limited time."

"Otherwise, I should've allowed Kiana to forge more bonds."

"And then, make her sever them with her own hands."

Having witnessed Nagazora City's destruction, Otto doubted if Coral Island's fate would truly impact Kiana significantly.

How to make Kiana genuinely accept her Herrscher identity had been constantly on his mind. If she could not embrace this role, his plans would crumble.

"Just Coral Island...it might not be enough weight."

"With Ana...no, their relationship is still too shallow."

"Xia Chen...there's no evidence suggesting any strong bond between him and Kiana."

Otto's eyes narrowed slightly. "Then there remains only one person."

"Siegfried, oh Siegfried, how much will you sacrifice for your daughter this time?"