The Vixen's Gambit: Tonight We Hunt

"Is she still at home, surfing the net?"

As Lihua emerged from the luxurious villa specifically designated for [Lee], Raiden Mei was already waiting at the entrance.

Seeing Lihua alone, Mei's expression was a mix of exasperation and amusement. "It's hard to believe that Lee has become like this... I really want to show Elysia and the others what their beloved Lee is like now. Their reactions would be priceless."

I never thought I'd see the day when you, Raiden Mei, would have such a mischievous streak… Lihua simply chuckled at Mei's remark.

"Lee seems to be quite curious. It's natural for her to be interested in the internet, especially since she hasn't had much exposure to entertainment before… She's been fighting for so long; it's good for her to rest. Earth doesn't have any problems that absolutely require Lee to solve. So why bother her?"

"You're very kind, Lihua. I heard you've been taking care of her this whole time..." Mei's gaze was polite but unwavering. "You're incredibly good to her. Is it because she's your ancestor? I saw the new story in the game. The Kaslana bloodline originates from her and Kevin."

"It has nothing to do with whether she's my ancestor. I'd do the same for anyone." Lihua paused beside Mei, giving her a wry look. "After all, I'm not a pure-blooded Kaslana. Just an adopted illegitimate child. My bloodline's probably so diluted it barely exists."

"Heh, you're right. That was a silly question..." Mei seemed to realize her blunder, apologizing. "A saint wouldn't treat people differently based on blood ties. Your impartial benevolence towards all life is a required course for every Valkyrie in Schicksal."

Not really a necessary course… Lihua's mental rant count was skyrocketing, but Mei, oblivious to her inner monologue, continued. "I know a descendant of yours—or rather, several people related to you by blood. But their personalities are usually more… energetic."

"Are you talking about Kiana and Theresa? Hehe, I'd actually like to meet them. And it's good for kids to be energetic. I was quite mischievous myself back in the day. I used to climb trees and almost crushed Otto to death when I fell..."

"If you had landed a bit more accurately, the world might be a better place." Mei's expression darkened at the mention of the former Overseer who had kidnapped Kiana. "That man's existence only inflates electricity prices!"

"Ahaha, you really hate him, don't you..." Lihua chuckled, but a rare look of weariness crossed her face. "I understand how you feel, Mei. He did do a lot of terrible things. But if we're talking responsibility, mine is probably heavier. If I hadn't suddenly died..."

Mei was silent, studying Lihua for a long moment before voicing her doubts. "Lee, I have a few questions I'm really curious about… Is the person in that house really Lee? Yes, her power and memories seem genuine, but her personality is so different from the Lee I know."

Mei's violet eyes locked onto Lihua's, and her next words made Lihua's blood run cold.

"Compared to that power-filled shell in the house, you seem more like Lee."

Raiden Mei, what are you implying? Who put you up to this?! We have no quarrel; why are you trying to sabotage me?! How am I like Lee? I don't think we're alike at all! You can't just say things like that!

It took immense willpower for Lihua not to faint on the spot. If any of those lunatics hear this, we're both screwed!

Players called Mei the "Elysian Realm Landmine" because of her loose tongue. Lihua could only think: If you really don't know what to say, it's perfectly fine to keep your mouth shut…

"Mei, you overestimate me. I can't be a savior..." Lihua forced a smile. "I can only do what little I can. It's nothing compared to what Lee has accomplished."

"Okay, okay, let's not talk about this. Let's get in the car and start patrolling!" Desperate to change the subject, Lihua pulled Mei towards the waiting patrol car. Mei didn't resist, but continued to study Lihua's face.

Lihua Kaslana really does look like Kiana and the Principal… Is this the power of bloodlines? But Lihua is so caring, while Kiana and the Principal are already doing well if they don't cause trouble for the people caring for them. When will they grow up…?

Sighing inwardly, Mei turned her gaze to the sprawling city.

It would be nice if they could learn from their ancestor—but the world has changed. That's probably not possible anymore, is it?