Honkai Star Rail: I Can Hear Their Secrets

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Not long ago, within the Seat of Divine Foresight, Jing Yuan was avidly watching the live stream.

With the Stellaron's eruption, nefarious activities, and recent unrest on Ethereal Immortal Ferry, it seemed there was no peace to be found.

Troubles aboard the Xianzhou, paperwork cluttering the desk, weeds sprouting in the flower beds...

These three things remained perpetually unmanageable, no matter one's efforts.

The Sky-Faring Commission had already sent Luocha's information to Jing Yuan's jade divination tablet.

Luocha, an outlander merchant, entered with the purpose of conducting business activities.

They had signed an agreement promising not to violate the laws of the Xianzhou Alliance and to adhere strictly to regulations while engaging in commerce.

Their activities were limited within the scope of their visa permit, prohibiting any illegal research related to 'eternal life.'

Jing Yuan initially assumed that Luocha's claim of being a merchant was merely a cover, suggesting they harbored some ulterior motive for visiting Luofu Xianzhou.

However, what Jing Yuan did not expect was that Luocha indeed possessed another f*cking agenda.

On the surface, Luocha appeared as a legitimate trader, but secretly, they were peddling counterfeit goods to the immortals!

Ha ha ha, how amusing.

So even you, Yaoshi's evil creation, have your comeuppance now?

Although Jing Yuan wasn't sure how Su Jinyan managed it, this revelation didn't hinder his laughter from bursting forth.

As the saying goes, "Victory lies first in psychological warfare, secondly in physical combat."

With Luocha's composure disrupted by Su Jinyan, he inevitably found himself at a disadvantage.

Minister Su was highly intelligent; without absolute confidence, why would he deliberately provoke Luocha? Jing Yuan had complete trust in Su Jinyan.

However, when Jingliu also appeared on the live stream, Jing Yuan could no longer find it amusing.

He rubbed his eyes and confirmed multiple times, only for an inexplicable sorrow to envelop his heart.

Honored mentor, how could you align yourself with such individuals?

Jing Yuan slowly rose, instantly materializing a gleaming golden formation blade—Stone Fire Dream Blade—in his hand.

This formation blade was forged from the remnants of the celestial arrows used by the Arrow of Fate to extinguish stars, crafted by its predecessor, Yingxing.

Upon obtaining this divine weapon, Jing Yuan became inseparable from it. With relentless ferocity, he decimated enemies in battle, achieving remarkable feats using this very formation blade.

Grasping the Stone Fire Dream Blade signified that Jing Yuan intended to take decisive action.

"Qing Zhu, I need to step out momentarily," Jing Yuan said, suppressing his emotions and feigning calmness. "Please handle the Seat of Divine Foresight's affairs in my absence."

"General, please be extremely cautious," Strategist Qing Zhu said with a complex expression, offering only a slight bow without attempting to dissuade Jing Yuan.

Jing Yuan's face brightened as he smiled. "Qing Zhu, why such a grave expression? This time, I'm not going for 'The Hunt,' but rather to discuss business."

"As guests must be treated with respect, since this Yaoshi's evil creature has come to conduct trade on our Xianzhou, it is my duty as the general of the Seat of Divine Foresight to patronize them accordingly."

Qing Zhu remained silent. Are you aiming to strike at their core by eliminating them outright?

However, from the general's perspective, his actions were understandable.

Not long ago, Lady Fu Xuan had written to Jing Yuan, warning him that Luofu needed to alter its course or risk facing immense peril. Shortly thereafter, under pressure from Su Jinyan, one of the Plagues Author's evil creatures revealed a vulnerability.

The Xianzhou Alliance respected the beliefs of outsiders; outlanders who followed the Plagues Author would still receive fair treatment. However, exceptions existed for Abundant Evil Creatures harboring ill intent towards the Xianzhou—The Hunt would relentlessly pursue them until the farthest reaches of the universe.

Given that these Abundant Evil Creatures surfaced so soon after the Stellaron's eruption, who could believe there was no connection between the two events?

At that moment, the situation at Cloudford took another turn.

Before their eyes, an ethereal figure emerged amidst swirling snowflakes and icy wisps, as if from a dream or illusion.

An icy beauty stood before them, her eyes concealed by a black silk blindfold adorned with a silver crescent moon, adding an aura of mystique to her flawless features. It was hard to fathom how many divine strokes of creation had sculpted such pristine skin, truly deserving of comparison to a frosty white moon.

Her serene demeanor, coupled with her unparalleled loveliness—snow-white face framed by crimson lips—made it nearly impossible to suppress one's racing heart.

The sword she wielded was no ordinary blade forged of metal; instead, it was crafted from solid ice, shimmering faintly. Measuring three feet and seven inches long, it felt weightless, akin to holding a beam of moonlight in hand.

In response to Luocha's remark, Jingliu remained silent.

Indeed, she should not have appeared here at this time.

Yanqing might be newly emerging, but his potential showed promising signs. As Jing Yuan's disciple, he studied the path of the sword. Thus, it was only fitting for her to teach him "the purpose behind wielding a blade."

Unfortunately, a grave crisis had arisen within Luocha, compelling Jingliu to abandon Yanqing's instruction and rush to Cloudford.

It was unimaginable that Luocha could lose control to such an extent.

Jingliu? She is the very same Jingliu from the High-Cloud Quintet?! Sushang struggled to contain her excitement.

Just as Sushang prepared to dash forward, Guinaifen swiftly covered her mouth, refusing to let go despite her frenzied attempts to break free.

"Shangshang, have you lost your mind?" Guinaifen whispered sternly. "Can't you see this isn't the time for such antics?"

Sushang looked at Guinaifen with dismay; she genuinely just wanted to rush forward and ask for Jingliu's autograph.

Phantylia, trembling nervously within Sushang's body, felt immense gratitude towards Guinaifen. She couldn't help but question whether choosing Sushang had been the right decision. Who would've thought that Sushang was such an impulsive young girl?

With Luocha, Su Jinyan, Dan Heng, and others present, Phantylia dared not recklessly control Sushang's thoughts, fearing exposure. Had Sushang charged towards Jingliu, causing her displeasure and risking a fatal strike from her sword, Phantylia's true identity as the Heliobus would have been utterly revealed to everyone.

Before the Stellaron could fully activate the Tree of Foundation, it was crucial that her presence remained hidden.

In the live stream chat, the barrage of comments went wild once again, showering Jingliu with praise and fervently urging Guinaifen to approach her for contact information.

Guinaifen clasped their hands together, pleading, "Honored viewers, please spare Little Gui! Remember, she used to be the sword leader of Luofu—aren't you afraid she might just run me through with her blade?"

[Diting + Howling Buddies: Not afraid.]

[Silver Wolf: Not afraid.]

[Playing with My Life: Not afraid.]

[Following Little Gui, Thanks Meow: Not afraid.]

Guinaifen couldn't hold back her frustration anymore. Why were all the live stream comments unanimously fearless? Were these fake fans or what?

Xueyi's voice was icy as she interrogated Jingliu, "Having committed the unpardonable ten evils, you have transgressed against the laws of the Ten-Lords Commission.

"Since you were banned from setting foot on Xianzhou, why do you appear here again in Luofu?"

Jingliu had long vanished from Xianzhou Luofu due to violating the Ten-Lords Commission's decrees. All records pertaining to her had been systematically erased by the commission.

Very few knew of Jingliu by name.

The immortal denizens of Xianzhou could only catch glimpses of her heroic demeanor through tales of the High-Cloud Quintet.

Su Jinyan shook his head slightly, shielding Xueyi behind him.

"Xueyi, do not provoke Jingliu. She is not our enemy."

Confused, Xueyi asked, "Why do you say that? If Jingliu isn't our enemy, then who is she—?"

With profound meaning, Su Jinyan replied, "Xueyi, explaining my relationship with Jingliu is far from simple; it cannot be captured in just a few words."

Little Fox's Benefactor: Huh?

Heartless Divination Machine: What's going on here?

Playing for Stakes: Wait, when exactly did they get acquainted?

Zhao Camera: This situation calls for a renowned detective to unravel their connection.

Never Scavenging Trash Again: Are you suggesting yourself as this detective?

Not just the live stream viewers, but even Xueyi and the others fell deep in thought due to Su Jinyan's cryptic statement.

Jingliu's beautiful eyes were covered with a black silk cloth, intended to shield her from emotional triggers that might plunge her into Demonic Yin, unleashing further madness.

However, rather than diminishing her allure, the black veil added an intriguing mystique to Jingliu's already icy demeanor.

Jingliu pondered aloud, "Past events fade like smoke before one's eyes. It seems you've grown significantly?

"Do you still remember our pact from thirty years ago?"

As soon as these words were spoken, the live stream chat erupted.

[Posting Under Real Name: ???]

[Unfeeling Divination Machine: What agreement did you secretly make with this venerable one?!]

[Little Fox's Benefactor: Has my benefactor been claimed by someone else?!]

[Playing Fate with Cards: Knowing that A-Yan is currently 20 years old, what was the agreement he made with Jingliu thirty years ago?]

[I'll Never Scavenge Trash Again: Could it be...]

[Zhao Camera: The way Su Jinyan looks at Jingliu is distinctly different—filled with both affection and nostalgia. In my opinion, Jingliu and Su Jinyan likely share a mother-son relationship!]

The live stream chat instantly flooded with countless question marks.

[Zhao Camera: It's not hard to deduce why the motherly, uh, fatherly bond between Su Jinyan and Silver Wolf deteriorated.]

[Silver Wolf: ???]

[Zhao Camera: In Su Jinyan's previous life, his biological mother was Jingliu. Just before his reincarnation, they agreed for him to become her son again in the next life. However, fate took an unexpected turn, and after rebirth, it was the Stellaron Hunter Silver Wolf who raised Su Jinyan instead.]

["You, ultimately, aren't my real mother," he lamented.]

[Despite Silver Wolf's tearful pleas and desperate begging for Su Jinyan not to leave, once his memories from the past life awakened, Su Jinyan still chose to abandon Silver Wolf and seek out his true mother—Jingliu!]

[Little Fox's Benefactor: 6]

[Playing with Fate: 6]

[I'll Never Scavenge Trash Again: 6]

[Unfeeling Divination Machine: Mod, can you mute this baseless fabricator already?]

[System Notification: Zhao Camera has been muted for 365 days.]

[Silver Wolf: Not bad, your tale. Here's a muting package as a reward.]

[I'll Never Scavenge Trash Again: Little March's way of thinking remains refreshingly unique.]

Su Jinyan removed the amulet hanging from his neck and, half-jokingly, said, "This talisman has accompanied me for so long that honestly, I'm somewhat reluctant to return it to you."

Jingliu softly replied, "I've told you before: if we meet again and you're still alive, then simply give back the amulet at that time."

"I thought you had sacrificed yourself during that battle," Su Jinyan admitted.

"Only recently, as your reputation grew, did I realize that perhaps our little brother from those days might still be alive."

"How...did you manage it?"

With a serious expression, Su Jinyan responded, "Everyone has their own secrets."

"Jingliu, in front of you, I prefer to maintain some sense of mystery."

Jingliu gently chided, "Little brother, save such lines for charming other women."

"Nowadays, Jingliu is merely a discarded pawn of the Xianzhou, a wandering swordsman."

"To avoid complications, it's best not to involve yourself too deeply with me," Su Jinyan continued solemnly. "Everyone has their own secrets."

Jingliu nodded slightly. "Go ahead, Little Brother."

Su Jinyan's voice turned cold. "Jingliu, you were once Luofu's sword leader, part of the illustrious High-Cloud Quintet known for your formidable achievements. You're also someone I greatly admired.

"I want to ask you, presently, are you Xianzhou's enemy or friend?"

As these words echoed, the surrounding air seemed to freeze, chilling to its core.

With a bone-piercing tone, Jingliu tightened his grip on the sword, subtly lifting it, and his voice conveyed deep-seated hatred. "The purpose of our journey is not to become enemies with Xianzhou but to bring about 'Abundance's' demise.

"Little Brother, we've crossed paths several times before, but if you stand in my way, you will be my adversary.

"I won't show mercy to my enemies, yet neither do I wish for us to oppose each other."

Sighing, Su Jinyan responded, "Jingliu, despite your fall to Demonic Yin, violating the King of Ten's decrees, and being expelled from Xianzhou—"

"Regardless," Su Jinyan continued, "nothing can erase your past achievements. Moreover, you've saved my life, so both reason and sentiment compel me to trust you."

"If the general later demands answers, I will take full responsibility."

The Ten-Lords Commission had long since destroyed all records related to Jingliu, leaving his knowledge about her quite limited. He only knew that Jingliu was once part of the High-Cloud Quintet and the sword leader of Luofu.

Later, due to succumbing to Demonic Yin—a violation of the Ten-Lords Commission's laws—she was expelled from Xianzhou.

This was the most comprehensive information he could gather on her. What surprised him was that Jingliu would associate with someone like Luocha, a peddler of counterfeit goods.

Jingliu clutched the amulet tightly, then reattached it around her snow-white neck. "Little brother Su Jinyan, there are still some matters troubling my mind," she said. "If given the chance, may I seek answers from you?"

Su Jinyan, harboring ulterior motives, dug a pit for Jingliu to fall into. "Coincidentally, I have questions too," he replied. "What is your relationship with this demon merchant selling fake dongs? Is he your friend?"

If Jingliu acknowledged him as such, everyone would then know that the once-renowned sword leader of Luofu had fallen so low as to befriend a merchant peddling fake dongs.

Even if Jingliu didn't care for superficial reputation, she wished to avoid baseless gossip.

Su Jinyan waved his hand dismissively. "Very well, since this outlander merchant is not your friend, I—"

Jingliu raised her blade, its edge shimmering like cool moonlight, and spoke coldly:

"Yet he is my companion in combating the Plagues Author."

"Little brother Su Jinyan, don't hinder us," she continued. "For the sake of our past bond..."

For the sake of our past bond, I truly do not wish to face you as an enemy...

Su Jinyan glanced at Luocha, wielding his nearly one-meter-long "Black Spiraled Massage Bead Sword," and hesitated, words catching in his throat.

"This, this—"

"What were you going to say, little brother?"

"Jingliu, are you certain this companion of yours fought alongside you against the Plagues Author? Just look at these myriad fake dongs filling the coffin—black ones, white ones, even spiraled! In all my life, I've never seen such variety. How can I help but suspect he intended them as tributes to the Plagues Author?"

The anger Luocha had barely managed to suppress surged anew within him.

"Jingliu, do you also take his word at face value?"

Jingliu fell silent. Though her eyes were covered by a black veil, it did not signify blindness; rather, her perception was sharper than most.

The truth lay before them, as undeniable as mountains—the lavish contents within the coffin were all genuine artifacts.

Yet it seemed highly implausible for Luocha to have orchestrated such an outrageous act.

There could only be one explanation: Su Jinyan's mastery of illusions had reached its pinnacle, enabling him to transform falsehoods into reality and deceive everyone present.

In this vast and boundless universe, anything was possible. In other words, these toys might very well be authentic creations conjured by Su Jinyan's illusions.

Jingliu had firmly resolved that, regardless of the cost, she must eliminate the Plagues Author amidst this struggle between Aeons.

She learned from Yanqing that Su Jinyan had also received Abundance's blessing, pledging to purge the world of Abundant Evil Creatures. To Jingliu, Su Jinyan appeared as a valuable ally worth cultivating rather than an adversary standing against her.

If she could resolve the misunderstanding between him and Luocha, there was a chance she could enlist Su Jinyan's support, turning her "little brother" into a formidable asset.

Jingliu, suppressing her true feelings, said convincingly, "As you can see, little brother,

"This is also the necessary sacrifice to combat the Plagues Author."

Luocha's pupils contracted sharply.

Instead of clearing his name, Jingliu inadvertently pushed him further into the fire.

Su Jinyan, now filled with profound respect, asked, "Are you saying that this Mister Luocha..."

"...has specifically collected these fake phalluses just to oppose the Plagues Author?"

Jingliu pursed her cold lips and replied, "Luocha's homeland was destroyed by the Plagues Author."

"That's correct; this special boon he sought from Eternal Bliss Heavenly Monarch grants him power."

"The more of these tainted objects he collects, the stronger Luocha becomes."

"This embodies our unwavering resolve, upholding The Hunt's belief without hesitation, even if it means risking everything to utterly eliminate 'Abundance'!"

Witnessing the hatred evident on Jingliu's face, viewers in the live stream expressed their understanding.

Under the deliberate efforts of the Xianzhou Alliance and the Ten-Lords Commission, Jingliu's presence had been systematically erased from Xianzhou, leaving no trace.

Few in Luofu knew Jingliu's true identity.

However, with Su Jinyan, a renowned figure, vouching for him, everything changed.

Jingliu was now recognized as the former sword leader of Luofu, one of the High-Cloud Quintet, a wandering swordsman embodying The Hunt's ideals, Su Jinyan's savior, and a man who dared to challenge the Plagues Author despite his mortal limitations...

These titles collectively painted a vivid picture of Jingliu for the live stream viewers.

They did not fully grasp why falling victim to Demonic Yin would lead to expulsion by the Ten-Lords Commission. All they understood was that upon his return, Jingliu was no enemy of Xianzhou.

Moreover, his follower Luocha bore immense personal hardship.

Luocha's homeland had been destroyed by the Plagues Author, driving him to seek vengeance. Despite facing misunderstanding and judgment, he steadfastly upheld the principles of The Hunt.

For an outlander like Luocha to comprehend Xianzhou's beliefs about The Hunt so deeply—what could be more moving than this?

In an instant, the somber atmosphere dissipated.

Su Jinyan, looking contrite, slowly approached Luocha and shook his hand with earnestness. If not for the inappropriate setting, he would have eagerly played the quintessential background music reserved for making dumplings during New Year's Eve gatherings.

"Apologies, Mr. Luocha, I wronged you."

Luocha clenched his jaw silently.

Jingliu's intentions were now crystal clear—she sought to utilize Su Jinyan, drawing him into their fight against the Plagues Author. Until that day arrived, Luocha had to endure.

"To express my remorse," Su Jinyan declared, "I've decided—

"In my personal capacity, I will donate a box of fake dicks to you!"

A puzzled expression crossed Luocha's face.

Sushang's innocent, beautiful eyes showed unwavering determination. "Luocha, I too have made up my mind."

"While this maiden may not be wealthy, when it comes to confronting the Plagues Author..."

"I wish to contribute my...my...thin power..." Guinaifen gently corrected her, "Mere strength."

Sushang nodded cheerfully. "Little Gui's right, let's contribute our humble efforts! I will donate half a box!"

Quickly following suit, Guinaifen declared, "Since Shangshang is donating, Little Gui will give away two boxes too!"

Luocha's face turned dark; he would have preferred enduring their deep-seated hatred over receiving such "understanding."

[NoMoreDumpsterDiving: Too touching! My tears are welling up.]

[Auntie Yang Says: The Astral Express pledges to donate three boxes of fake dicks!]

[Magic Sword Al-Ahlat: Not me, didn't say that, stop making things up!]

[Silver Wolf: Donate? Absolutely, on behalf of each Stellaron Hunter, we'll contribute one box!]

[Diting Viewer + Howler: Click here for adorable Diting videos—affordable and high-quality! I'm donating all my earnings from the next three months' sales to buy Mr. Luocha some fake dicks.]

[Invincible Swordsman 123: Unfortunately, I don't have much money left, or else I'd also contribute.]

[Uncle Han Tui: I've already contacted my friends; they plan to pool funds and donate a diamond-encrusted box for Mr. Luocha.]

In the live stream, those with money contributed funds, while others sent heartfelt blessings.

Everyone rallied together, hoping that Luocha would soon achieve his goal—acquiring more and more fake dicks.

Uh, no wait, completely annihilating the Plagues Author.

From a distance came Jing Yuan's hearty laughter.

"Mr. Luocha's spirit is truly moving."

"How can we let Minister Su bear all the expenses alone?"

"On behalf of our Seat of Divine Foresight, I pledge to donate one hundred boxes to Mr. Luocha!"

Jingliu was speechless, as was Luocha.

Su Jinyan, visibly startled, exclaimed, "Friends watching the live stream, did you hear that? Our general has shown such generosity—he intends to donate one hundred boxes!"

The chat erupted once again, comments flooding the screen like mad.

Luofu's General Jing Yuan had spontaneously appeared, driven by the desire to uphold Luofu's values and traditional culture. He decided, under the auspices of the Seat of Divine Foresight, to contribute one hundred boxes of fake dicks in support of Luocha.

Could there be anything more touching than this?!

Luocha could not endure such humiliation for another moment; he'd truly had enough!

Could it be that Jingliu's Mara-Struck affliction was acting up? Was she truly willing to collaborate with someone like Su Jinyan against the Plagues Author?

If so, before the Plagues Author even had a chance to react, Luocha might well meet his demise—social death across the universe.

Luocha coldly hoisted the coffin onto his back, preparing to swiftly flee from Luofu and lie low for some time.

Just then, a highly infectious laughter echoed through the sky.

All traces of Luocha's extreme fury vanished, replaced by an inexplicable curl at the corners of his lips as his mood brightened considerably.

A figure appeared amidst the heavens.

Headless, holding a mask in its embrace, it waved towards the crowd, twirling gracefully. Its arms suspended mid-air, muscles twitching rhythmically, resembling a living sculpture.

It was Aha, the Aeon of Joy.

The celestial being scanned the surroundings, directing its gaze solely at Luocha and waving once more.

Boom!

A smooth, flawless white jade pillar sprang forth from the ground, soaring straight into the clouds like a divine sea-stabilizing rod firmly anchored at Cloudford.

In Xianzhou script, inscribed on the sea-stabilizing rod, were words that translated to: "Ruyi Dio Scepter."

With that, Aha completely vanished from everyone's sight.

Though He uttered no words, it felt as if everything had been conveyed.

The live stream descended into utter frenzy; for many viewers, this was their first glimpse of a Aeon manifesting divine wonders.

And witnessing such a display by the elusive Eternal Bliss Heavenly Monarch was even more extraordinary!

What did this signify? Luocha's actions had deeply moved Eternal Bliss Heavenly Monarch, prompting Him to appear and bestow a reward upon Luocha!

Su Jinyan, immensely excited, exclaimed, "Mr. Luocha, see this? It's a gift from the Eternal Bliss Heavenly Monarch himself."

"Your deeds have earned His recognition."

"He bestowed upon you an incredibly massive fake cock! Hurry up and thank the Eternal Bliss Heavenly Monarch!"

Luocha covered his face, feeling utterly dazed.

It can't be real... All of it must be false...

Luocha experienced an unprecedented nightmare. In it, he dreamed...dreamed that the Aeon of Joy gifted him with a colossal fake dick...

Amidst gasps and exclamations from all around, Luocha fainted from sheer shock and disbelief.

At the Ten-Lords Commission's Underworld Palace:

"Agh!" Luocha jolted awake from his dream, clutching his sweat-drenched forehead and gasping for breath.

Was it just a dream?

Thank goodness...

Luocha heaved a relieved sigh.

Wait.

As if struck by a sudden thought, Luocha hastily materialized his knight's sword and examined it closely.

Phew, unchanged—it truly was a nightmare.

Creak—

Hearing the noise, Jingliu pushed open the door and entered. "You seem quite distressed," she remarked mildly.

Luocha pressed a hand to his forehead and asked softly, "Jingliu, where are we?"

"My apologies for the embarrassment; I...I just had a terrible nightmare..."

"The Ten-Lords Commission's Underworld Palace," Jingliu replied coldly.

Confusion washed over Luocha. "The Underworld Palace? Shouldn't we have gone to The Shackling Prison instead?"

"Also, unless my memory fails me, the Tree of Foundation shouldn't have awakened yet."

"Jingliu, did you find the person you were looking for?"

Jingliu shook her head slightly. "Not yet, but Little Brother Su Jinyan promised to help me search."

"Because of you, our plans were prematurely exposed," Jingliu replied evenly. "Jing Yuan only granted me one day."

"But with Little Brother's persuasion, he agreed to temporarily postpone matters alongside Imperial Judge Wang."

"After Luofu deals with its immediate crisis, he'll come to settle accounts with us then."

Luocha stared, bewildered. Did he mishear something? He barely registered anything Jingliu said; his attention was solely focused on hearing the name "Su Jinyan."

In a calm tone, Jingliu addressed him, "Luocha, I apologize for your ordeal."

"However, to bring 'Abundance' to ruin, this was an unavoidable necessity."

"The gifts... from those Xianzhou people..."

"They have already filled five storage rooms. To maintain your image in their eyes, would you like to take a look?"

Luocha's expression remained composed as he muttered to himself, "So that's how it is..."

"I'm still trapped within the illusory realm, unable to escape yet..." With a scoff, he added, "Well, trapping me thus far must give you quite some pride."

Jingliu raised an eyebrow.

It seemed Luocha needed more time to process the situation.