Honkai Star Rail Simulation: I'm Surrounded By Characters

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[Black Swan: Let's follow the timeline then, starting with Bailu's entrance, shall we?]

[Bailu: So, there's more to my story?]

[Bailu (after pondering): Wait, it's not going to be like Jingliu, where I have to repeatedly stab someone I like, right?! Because I definitely don't want that; it looked so painful and distressing!]

[Sparkle: Pffft (laughs), "stabbing back and forth," quite vivid description from Bailu.]

[Stelle: @Sparkle, don't tease her.?]

[Sparkle: Hahahaha, okay, won't mention it again.]

[Black Swan (smiling): Rest assured, it's a very light-hearted and soothing scene.]

[Seele: "Light-hearted" indeed.]

[Qingque: "Soothing," sure.]

[March 7th: Just as long as it's not the same kind of 'joy' found in Happy Simulations!!]

[Black Swan: Alright, following the timeline, let's start from when Su Qing finishes his simulation.]

***

Su Qing opened his eyes once more.

He glanced around and took a moment to feel his body.

Only after confirming that the simulation had ended and he hadn't gained any peculiar powers did Su Qing feel relieved.

[Qingque: Well, we've been tricked enough to be wary.]

[Bronya: Just hope you don't wake up as some bizarre Emanator again!]

Su Qing gathered his thoughts.

This was by far the longest simulation yet—a dream spanning a thousand years.

Despite having the Memory Palace Talent, it still required time to adjust slightly post-simulation.

Throughout these simulations, he had become a photographer, demon hunter, scholar, hacker, cloud rider...

Undoubtedly, there would be many more identities in the future.

But beneath the complexity, after each simulation ends, he remains fundamentally himself.

These simulations, though real-life experiences, are akin to numerous branches on a grand tree.

He is not merely one branch; rather, all these branches collectively form him and provide nourishment to the main trunk.

To avoid losing his sense of self, he must not overly immerse in any single simulation. Instead, they should serve as beneficial additions to his core being, enriching the central path he walks upon.

With this clarity, Su Qing exhaled deeply.

The feeling of detachment from the thousand-year dream began to dissipate somewhat.

[Stelle: Excellent, excellent! A profound realization indeed!]

[Black Swan: Indeed, no matter how many names or identities he possesses, at his core, he remains Su Qing—this is his "true self".]

[Black Swan: If every simulation altered his "true self," it wouldn't be long before he'd risk developing multiple personality disorder.]

Of course, Su Qing still valued each simulation deeply.

Every simulation represented genuine experiences and memories, collectively shaping the real him.

As such, after this particular simulation ended, Su Qing felt a significant sense of familiarity towards Luofu.

Once his mindset fully adjusted, considering the longevity afforded by life on Xianzhou, he planned to search for his old friends, wondering if they were still around.

Jingliu... especially Jingliu.

After eight hundred years, with landscapes transformed beyond recognition, he couldn't help but wonder about her current state...

[Jingliu's lips curved into a faint smile.]

[She too was curious; what would their feelings be upon reuniting with Su Qing?]

In any case,

after exhilarating battles as a cloud rider for a millennium, it was time for a change of pace and return to his true identity in reality.

[Stelle: Ready to start cooking, can't wait!]

[Silver Wolf: While other simulations seem genuinely experienced, wasn't Firefly's beginner simulation purely fictional?]

[Firefly: No, I don't want to hear this! ???]

[Seele: Stop piling on Firefly!!]

***

The Astral Express's stop at Luofu served not only as a warning of potential dangers ahead but also included repairs for the star rails, necessitating a longer layover.

With Sushang and Guinaifen's assistance, Su Qing successfully obtained a map of Luofu's current culinary hotspots.

Comparing it to her memories from the simulation, she realized that these eight hundred years represented a generation span for Xianzhou. Many new and promising establishments had emerged during this time.

[Qingque: That's right! Now, Su Qing is practically a seasoned gourmand in Luofu!]

Following the food map, Su Qing discovered several delightful surprises indeed. However, merely indulging without creating left her feeling restless.

Since there was ample time, Su Qing decided to rent a storefront and open a small restaurant herself.

Throughout this endeavor, Sushang and Guinaifen provided significant help, assisting with numerous arrangements.

Sushang was enthusiastic, "Don't worry, if anything comes up while setting up your shop, feel free to reach out to me! Just call me 'Timely Aid' Sushang among friends!"

[Guinaifen: Ha ha, Sushang truly is always eager to lend a hand!]

Su Qing teased, "By the way, Sushang, aren't you part of the Cloud Knights? With your backing, can I just run amok and act tyrannically in Exalting Sanctum?"

"Ah?" Sushang seemed caught off guard. "N-no, that wouldn't be right. We Cloud Knights cannot endorse such behavior..."

Sushang's straightforward nature made her an easy target for Su Qing's jests. It wasn't until Guinaifen chuckled nearby and gently reminded her that she realized what was happening, stomping her foot in frustration.

[Sushang: Oh dear, everyone come quick! A former general is bullying a new Cloud Knight!!]

[Guinaifen: Laugh.]

[Stelle: Laugh.]

[Qingque: Dying from laughter.]

During the early days of his restaurant, Guinaifen often visited to show support. Skilled in performance arts, she entertained with acrobatics outside the shop, drawing lively crowds and attracting many customers.

Combined with Su Qing's exceptional culinary talents, the establishment quickly gained popularity within a short time.

Of course, cooking was merely a hobby for Su Qing. After repaying his debt, he didn't lack funds either. He would open the restaurant for only a few hours each day, using the rest of his time to explore local cuisines and refine his culinary skills.

Their days were incredibly fulfilling.

They were so content that they hardly missed their previous lives—whether it be the comforts of home, the luxury of cars, or even standing still amidst the hustle and bustle.

[Stelle: Su Qing, where have you been?! You're not even on the Astral Express anymore!?]

[Himeko: Come to think of it, during that time, I rarely saw Su Qing aboard the train. So he was exploring various establishments all along...]

One day, after closing up shop, Su Qing planned to take another stroll but noticed Sushang supporting Guinaifen as they entered.

Guinaifen, usually brimming with enthusiasm, now looked somewhat distressed. "Aiya! Shuangshuang, slow down—it hurts!"

"Oh, okay, sorry Little Gui, I'll go slower."

Sushang carefully helped Guinaifen sit down.

Su Qing approached, puzzled. "What happened? Did someone attack you while walking?"

"No, not at all." Guinaifen seemed slightly embarrassed. "It's...it's due to a performance mishap... We were doing our 'Hammer Chest Split' act together, and there was an accidental slip-up."

[Qingque: Well, well, this time Guinaifen ended up being the one getting cracked, right?]

[Sushang: We switch roles each time! It's fair.]

[Qingque: Fair indeed! Truly fair!]

Su Qing smiled, recalling how he first met them - it was precisely during their hammer-breaking act when they chose him as a fortunate audience member.

Come to think of it, there had been a similar mishap that day too...

Seeing his expression, Guinaifen knew what he was thinking and hastily explained, "It's quite normal; everyone makes mistakes sometimes! Aiya, I didn't expect Sushang to swing the hammer so accurately this time!"

Sushang cheerfully added, "We initially wanted to seek help from the Medicine-Bearing Dragon Maiden, but she had gone off again without telling anyone, nowhere to be found. So we decided to rest here first."

"Medicine-Bearing Dragon Maiden? Gone off?" Su Qing queried.

"Yes, Bailu," Sushang replied. "She's a young dragon healer who often runs out to play. Previously, she used to watch Little Gui's performances all the time!"

[Bailu: No need for the 'young' descriptor!]

[Stelle: It's alright, being young is cute too, you know.]

Apart from her injured leg, Guinaifen also had some abrasions on her back shoulder.

Guinaifen said, "I can disinfect my leg with cotton swabs myself, but for my back, I have to rely on Sushang. Though, she's rather clumsy."

Sushang protested, "Ah—no way! It's clearly because you, Little Gui, can't stop wriggling whenever it tickles!"

"Ha ha, but it really does itch," Guinaifen replied.

Su Qing offered, "Would you like me to help? I have some knowledge of wound care."

[Stelle: It appears! The classic line, "slightly knowledgeable"!]

Having served as a cloud rider for many years, Su Qing was naturally well-versed in basic wound treatment.

Guinaifen nodded promptly. "Sure, sure! With your excellent cooking skills, your hands must be incredibly dexterous!"

Both parties felt at ease with each other; after assisting and sharing meals several times, they had become quite familiar. Additionally, Guinaifen's acrobatic profession lent her an uninhibited personality.

So, using some standard medications brought by Guinaifen, Su Qing proceeded to disinfect her abrasions.

With her left hand supporting her right arm, Guinaifen exposed her back.

Her back was fair-skinned, toned from practicing acrobatics, displaying smooth muscle contours without compromising the graceful aesthetics typical of young women.

As expected, Guinaifen was indeed ticklish and squirmed occasionally when the cotton swab touched her skin.

However, Su Qing consistently managed to precisely apply the antiseptic where needed, demonstrating quick reflexes and seemingly...

[Jingliu: ...and hints of exquisite sword technique.]

[Silver Wolf: No way! Is that possible? Can one discern sword technique just from applying ointment?!]

[Jingliu: Certainly, those with Talent can perceive it.]

[Sparkle: Fun fact, treating a cotton swab like a sword, huh?]

Initially, Guinaifen didn't think much of it, but after a while, she noticed Sushang staring intently in their direction.

"Sushang, watching closely..."

She seemed particularly focused on the area where Su Qing was applying iodine, as if there was something fascinating about it.

Now Guinaifen felt puzzled; she knew Sushang well, and her friend was usually lively and energetic.

Watching someone merely disinfect something? What could be so intriguing about that?

Could there be something unusual happening...

[Jingliu: It seems this young cloud rider has quite some talent.]

Feeling slightly nervous, Guinaifen's black-stockinged thighs pressed together while her feet, clad in high-heeled boots, subtly parted. She glanced sideways at Su Qing.

Apart from being very handsome and focused, there wasn't anything particularly special about him...

And so, Sushang continued observing Su Qing's disinfection process, while Guinaifen kept her eyes fixed on him.

"Done." Su Qing stood up.

"Ah!" Guinaifen snapped out of her trance, realizing she had been staring intently, captivated.

Embarrassed yet quickly masking it with enthusiasm and a smile, she exclaimed, "Thank you! Truly grateful, your hands are indeed remarkably skilled!"

This time, however, Sushang seemed to notice something and began scrutinizing Guinaifen closely.

[Stelle: Oh? I didn't realize Sushang pays attention to such details.]

[Sushang: I...I may be straightforward, but I'm not dumb!]

[Sparkle: Well, who knows...]

[Sushang: Plus, considering how familiar Little Gui and I are, isn't it natural for me to pick up on her odd behavior!]

[Silver Wolf: Ah, always staring at Su Qing.]

[Silver Wolf: Seriously, can't stand you appearance-obsessed folks.?]

[Guinaifen: Little Silver Wolf, do you have any right to say that?!]

After disinfecting Guinaifen's wound, Su Qing casually tossed them the keys, continuing his culinary exploration. He entrusted the shop to their care, giving them a chance to rest as well.

Once Su Qing left,

Sushang glanced at his departing figure and earnestly whispered something to Guinaifen.

Guinaifen promptly nudged her, telling her not to speak nonsense.

The two then burst into giggles and playfully tussled until Guinaifen accidentally bumped the table, aggravating her injury.

With a sharp intake of breath, she finally settled back down, no longer engaging in the playful scuffle.

[Qingque: You know, after watching this segment, it seems like Sushang and Guinaifen make the most typical best friend duo.]

[Qingque: Stelle and March 7th, on the other hand, seem more like prankster buddies.]

[Stelle: What!? Pure slander! How could we be considered prankster buddies??]

[Stelle: I've never said anything bad about March 7th! Never pranked her even once!]

[March 7th: (drawling) Is—that—so—?]

[Bronya: Not "never," but indeed "many times," right??]

As Sushang and Guinaifen rested inside the shop, they awaited Su Qing's return.

This way, they could conveniently enjoy a free meal too.

After all, Su Qing's cooking was truly exceptional—sigh, just one taste and it's impossible to forget!

As they say, coincidences often drive the narrative.

Encountering the injured Guinaifen and Sushang today was coincidence number one for Su Qing.

Meeting a runaway Dragon Girl on the street was coincidence number two.

These dual coincidences set the stage for what followed.

Sometimes, fate weaves its threads subtly. Only when walking down this path and looking back would one realize that their initial encounter seemed destined from the start, leading to this chance meeting years later...

"Out of the way! Let me through!"

A young Dragon Girl clutching a gourd charged through the crowd, her steps frantic as if fleeing from pursuers.

[Bailu: It's me! I'm finally making my grand entrance!]

[Bailu: Hmm, but why make me appear running away right off the bat? I do help treat patients too, showcasing my professional side!]

Bailu glanced over her shoulder while sprinting. "What should I do? They're catching up."

She turned ahead, searching desperately for a place to hide.

To draw an analogy, if this were a game, the composed and leisurely strolling Su Qing stood out like a player character amidst a sea of NPCs, highly conspicuous.

[Silver Wolf: If any game had a Su Qing character pool, I'd go all-in without hesitation!]

"Sir...this kind sir, please help me!"

Bailu swiftly darted past Su Qing and hid in a nearby alleyway. Behind the shop's back door steps, she found a panel that could serve as cover.

Clutching her gourd, Bailu shrank onto the steps, then after a moment's thought, also wrapped her tail around herself to avoid detection.

In a hushed voice, Bailu pleaded with Su Qing, "Shh! There are bad people trying to catch me. Can you help me hide?"

Su Qing glanced at her and gently nodded.

"In just an instant, how did they vanish?"

"Why does Lady Bai Lu always run so fast? Impossible to catch!"

Soon, a man and a woman—both physicians from the Alchemy Commission—arrived on their trail.

They first looked around before approaching Su Qing for information.

[Bailu: Oh no, oh no! Forgot that even Su Qing stands out to those pursuers!]

After identifying themselves to Su Qing, the male physician asked, "Excuse me, have you seen a Dragon Girl pass by? She's small, with deep blue hair; should be quite distinctive."

"[Bailu: I've already said it - no need for 'little' as an adjective!]"

Su Qing spoke up, "Are you from the Alchemy Commission?"

The Alchemy Commission was one of the Six Commissions, also recognized as a legitimate official institution on Xianzhou.

On the nearby steps, Bailu clutched her tail nervously, thinking, W-will I be betrayed...

The male healer nodded affirmatively.

"And how has Yun Hua been recently?" Su Qing asked. "Is she still serving as the Head Alchemist?"

At this question, the male healer's head drooped lower. "Um, well, Lady Yun Hua... Lady Yun Hua has already stepped down. The position of Head Alchemist is currently vacant..."

[Seele: Hahahaha!!]

[Silver Wolf: Can't hold back anymore.]

[Silver Wolf: With just a few words, Su Qing makes it seem like he's very familiar with your top leader.]

[Qingque: Because even during normal times in Su Qing's simulations, he holds the rank of Cloud Knight Lieutenant. Naturally, these are the people he interacts with!]

Su Qing continued questioning them, "As healers, do you typically spend time on tasks like capturing fugitives on the streets? What about researching alchemical formulas and healing the sick?"

[Fireworks: Wait, Healer: Wasn't I asking you questions? How did it turn into you interrogating me?!]

"Well, caring for Lady Bai Lu is just a part-time duty..." the male healer responded, inadvertently adding, "Normally, we diligently study medicinal formulas and focus on treating patients, never slacking off."

[Sparkle: Wait, weren't you supposed to be answering me? How did it turn into questioning me?!]

[Bronya: He's taking charge right on the spot!]

[Qingque: It feels like he's here to inspect work, much like when the Grand Diviner grills me regularly!]

[Fu Xuan: ?]

The female healer also felt overwhelmed; Su Qing may have appeared young, but in Luofu, one could never judge by appearances alone.

His commanding presence struck fear into her, reminiscent of being scrutinized by her superiors.

She hastily tugged at the male healer, and both quickly bid farewell before resuming their search for the runaway Dragon Girl.

Su Qing watched them leave with a smile.

Normally, his tone wouldn't adopt such authority. However, after millennia spent simulating life in Luofu, there were occasional moments when assuming a superior's demeanor was necessary.

He didn't expect it would come in handy so soon.

After they departed,

From behind the steps, Bailu's adorable head with tiny horns peeked out. "You sent them away so effortlessly? Amazing!" She hopped down from the stairs and exclaimed, "Thank you so much!"

Considering her runaway status and the healer's mention earlier, Su Qing asked, "Are you Bailu?"

"Hm? You know me?" Bailu coiled her tail around a gourd, securing it back at her waist, then placed her hands on her hips. "I didn't realize I was quite that famous!"

"I've heard about you from Sushang and Guinaifen."

"Oh! So you're their friend! Should have said sooner." Bailu seemed very familiar with them. "Guinaifen's performances are always entertaining, and I often run into her and Sushang when they come for treatment."

"Sometimes Sushang carries her, sometimes she carries Sushang, and occasionally both arrive battered. The reasons? Always mishaps during their acts!"

[Stelle: ? Impressive, @Sushang, @Guinaifen, taking turns getting injured—fair indeed!]

[Guinaifen: Oh no, Shuangshuang! Is this what they call our dark past?! Feels so embarrassing...]

[Sushang: It is a bit awkward...?]

[Silver Wolf: Come on, really? You call this your dark past?]

[Firefly: Exactly! Real black history is far more embarrassing than this!]

[Sparkle: ?? These two definitely know it firsthand.]

Conveniently, Su Qing mentioned that they had sustained injuries and needed treatment.

Bailu nodded. "Of course, no problem. However, since I've managed to sneak out, can I buy some tasty treats first before heading over...?"

Su Qing replied, "No worries, I can prepare delicious food for you."

Upon hearing this, Bailu took a step back, becoming cautious. "Y-you... aren't you one of those strange adults who supposedly lure kids with tasty treats, like in legends?!"

Smiling, Su Qing asked, "Do I look like that to you?"

Bailu studied him, and indeed, Su Qing didn't seem like a villain. Moreover, there was a peculiar sense of familiarity about him, as if she had seen him somewhere before.

As Su Qing made to leave,

"Hey, wait! Miss here thinks...thinks you don't seem like a bad person!" Bailu quickly scampered after him, catching up to his side.

She tilted her head back to look at Su Qing and said, "I'll treat them without charging any consultation fee. But your food better be truly delicious!"

Bailu's innocent charm was endearing, displaying a childlike simplicity.

Su Qing rarely interacted with such young girls. Finding it quite amusing, he gently patted her small head. "Don't worry, if it's not tasty, I'll give you double portions as compensation."

Quick-witted, Bailu responded, "If it's not good, why would I want two portions?!"

Then, she dodged his hand, puffing out her cheeks while her dragon tail swayed playfully. "Hmph, stop patting me like a watermelon! Don't do that! It'll make me grow too tall!"

Suddenly, Su Qing halted in his tracks.

Confused, Bailu asked, "What's wrong?"

Bailu's puffed cheeks and wagging tail reminded Su Qing of someone he knew all too well.

But she...

Su Qing shook his head, dismissing those far-fetched thoughts from his mind.

He resumed walking and changed the subject, "Dragoness Xianyao, is there no way to increase height?"

Bailu continued swishing her tail as she walked beside him, sighing with feigned maturity, "There's only one incurable ailment I cannot help with - being shor-t!"

[Qingque: Hey! If there were a method to grow taller, I'd definitely seek it for... myself and the Grand Diviner!]

[Fu Xuan: Thank you so much, Qingque.]

While some viewers enjoyed the banter, others more perceptive had noticed something intriguing:

[Especially Jingliu.]

[Bailu's expression, with her cheeks puffed out, strikingly resembled someone from their memories...]

Jingliu fell deep into thought.

Upon returning to the shop, Su Qing greeted Sushang and Guinaifen excitedly, "Quick, look who I found—a doctor!"

Bailu energetically hopped on both feet, crossing the threshold. "I didn't just pick it up!"

Indeed, she was quite familiar with Sushang and Guinaifen. Amidst their laughter and chatter, Bailu swiftly healed Guinaifen's wounds.

"Wow, impressive!" Su Qing had seen Dan Feng perform such healing before, attributing it to the innate abilities of the Vidyadhara clan. Nonetheless, he praised her enthusiastically.

"Well then..." Despite her youthful enthusiasm at receiving compliments, Bailu didn't forget her request. "As promised, where's my treat?! Just so you know, I'm very particular about food!"

After some time...

"This is delicious! Absolutely divine—ah!"

Bailu's expression conveyed her delight vividly; even her dragon tail rose joyously, swaying back and forth. "I've never tasted anything this amazing!"

[Stelle: Ha ha ha, honestly, if I hadn't tried Su Qing's cooking myself, seeing Bailu's reaction would make me suspect that the Alchemy Commission mistreated her, never giving her any good meals.]

[Bailu: If the Alchemy Commission served food this delectable, I wouldn't have run out every day!]

Naturally, Su Qing also didn't overlook Sushang and Guinaifen.

All three of them had outgoing personalities and were generous with their praise.

Wow, what a response.

For a moment, compliments filled the air incessantly, rising and falling like waves:

"Delicious! So good!"

"Su Qing, you're amazing!"

"Tastes fantastic!"

"Can I come back next time?"

"It's heavenly!"

Finally, Su Qing stood up and asked, "What else would you like to try? I'll make it for you."

The trio cheered enthusiastically.

[Qingque: Hhh, now Su Qing is truly delighted.]

[Sparkle: Joyful, Su Qing: Losing himself amidst praises of deliciousness!]

[March 7th (taking notes): Ah, so that's how it works... Su Qing enjoys being complimented on his cooking... Just lavish him with praise; after all, there's no such thing as too much...]

[Stelle: ? Why is little March noting down more peculiar things?]

After dinner,

they chatted casually. Bailu couldn't believe she hadn't discovered this delectable place earlier and vowed to skip work more often, ensuring frequent visits!

Later, having escaped from the Alchemy Commission twice in one day and indulged in such tasty meals, exhaustion seemed to catch up with Bailu. Without realizing it, she dozed off, her head resting on the table.

Noticing this, Sushang gently draped a small blanket over Bailu.

However, her movements were somewhat clumsy, causing Bailu's tail to twitch and mumble something indistinctly.

Sushang nearly thought she had woken Bailu up, but as Bailu's tail settled back down, she silently patted her chest in relief.

In the quiet aftermath of the meal, sunlight spilled onto the street outside the shop entrance.

Within this cozy establishment,

Bailu was asleep with her head resting on the table, while Sushang and Guinaifen whispered softly, engaged in hushed conversation. Su Qingze, meanwhile, gently flipped through the newly collected recipe booklets.

[Qingque: What a truly peaceful scene!]

[Himeko: When helping to cover Bailu with a blanket, Sushang might have been slightly awkward, but she is genuinely kind.]

[Sushang: Hehe (scratching head), thank you for the compliment. If only someday I could be as mature and capable as Sister Himeko!]

[Stelle: Aww, now even Sushang calls her Sister Himeko.]

[Bailu watched herself on the live stream, finding it quite intriguing to observe oneself in real-time.]

[She yawned.]

[Whether it was due to seeing her sleeping self making her drowsy or from exhaustion after crying so much earlier, Bailu gradually drifted off to sleep while watching the live stream.]

Footsteps approached.

Sushang turned and noticed that Bailu, who had just fallen asleep not long ago, was already awake.

Feeling puzzled, Sushang asked, "Bailu, aren't you sleepy anymore?"

"Mm-hmm." Bailu nodded gently while looking in a particular direction. "Sushang, thank you for covering me with the blanket."

"Oh, no problem..." Sushang found it slightly odd, sensing that Bailu's demeanor seemed somehow different.

Bailu walked over to Su Qing, who was browsing through a cookbook. "Su-xun... I mean, Su Qing?"

"What is it?" Su Qing tilted his head, noticing Bailu gazing up at him.

Her already beautiful big eyes sparkled even more brightly as she fixed her unwavering gaze on him.

After a moment of thought, as if seeking confirmation, Bailu said, "Your cooking skills are really impressive. Are you quite skilled in the kitchen?"

"Decent, just somewhat knowledgeable," replied Su Qing.

Upon hearing this familiar response, Bailu's eyes shone even brighter.

[March 7th: Bailu seems a bit peculiar, doesn't she?]

[Bailu (?): Peculiar? Isn't it normal for a young lady like me to be curious about these things?]

Bailu tiptoed and sat down on the chair next to Su Qing. She instinctively swayed her tail while striking up a conversation with him.

Their chat didn't revolve around any specific topic; they simply discussed the recipes before them. It appeared as though this simple interaction brought her great happiness.

[Bailu: @Jingliu, how have you been lately?]

[Jingliu found it somewhat peculiar but responded nonetheless.]

[Jingliu: Doing alright.]

[Bailu: That's great! Don't overthink things; remember to stay happy every day!]

[Jingliu: ...Yes.]

[March 7th: Wait, that can't be right! There's no way Bailu would talk like this?!]

[Kafka: @Bailu, you're not Bailu—so who are you?]

[Bailu: Hehe, busted already?]

[Jingliu: ...Bai Heng?]

[Jingliu wasn't sure why she suddenly blurted out that name.]

[Bailu: ! No way! It's not surprising to get caught, but how did Jingliu guess correctly?!]

[Stelle: Ah?]

[Seele: Ah??]

[Qingque: Ah???]

[Everyone was stunned. Did this mean that behind Bailu's account, it was actually Bai Heng posting?!]

[Now, instead of Bailu, we should say...]

[Bai Heng (or rather, now Bai Heng): Yep, yep, it's me—Bai Heng!]

[Qingque: Unbelievable, it really is Bai Heng!]

[Sushang: Seriously?!]

[Bronya: You're not dead??]

[Stelle: Arise! My—uh, my what?]

[March 7th: My Trailblazer Senior!]

[Stelle: Yes! Rise again, my fellow Trailblazer Senior!]

[Bai Heng: Ahh! Don't call me 'Senior'! It makes me sound so old!]

[The chat became lively as viewers, though most hadn't personally interacted with Bai Heng, had become acquainted with this brave and spirited fox star scapher during previous streams.]

[Jingliu: Bai Heng, is it really you?]

[Bai Heng (joyful): Yep! If you don't believe me, I'll send you some private messages about things only we would know!]

[Jingliu (after checking private messages): It truly is you...]

[March 7th: Huh? Wha...? Wait, what?!]

[Seele: Little March perfectly expresses everyone's surprise!]

[March 7th: So! @Bailu, what exactly happened? Didn't you transform into the Dragon of Misfortune and then—then fall into slumber?]

[Bai Heng began recounting her perspective on the events.]

[Bai Heng: I remember transforming into the Dragon of Misfortune; it was incredibly painful and unbearable. Then, I lost control, feeling like I destroyed many things...]

[Bai Heng: After that, Su Qing helped release me from the curse, and I fell asleep next to him. He was very gentle; just before drifting off, I didn't feel any pain anymore.]

[Bai Heng: After that, my memories become quite hazy.]

[Bai Heng: There were some fragmented glimpses, like learning medicine and frequently seeing the Alchemy Commission...]

[Bai Heng: Around the earlier years—oh, referring to those few years before Su Qing's timeline in the stream—I gradually became more aware.]

[Bai Heng: From then on, I roughly regained consciousness, able to perceive what was happening outside. Sometimes when Bailu slept, I could even temporarily emerge and move about.]

[Bai Heng provided a general account of her experiences.]

[March 7th: How fascinating! But... @Fu Xuan, @Herta, can you explain what exactly is going on here? Why would Bai Heng's consciousness be within Bailu's body?]

[Fu Xuan: This area falls beyond this venerable one's knowledge. Speculating, it might be a state where two souls coexist within one body.]

[Herta: @Ruan Mei, perhaps someone with more expertise can shed light.]

[March 7th: Right!]

[Ruan Mei pondered briefly.]

[Ruan Mei: During the battle with Shuhu, Bai Heng was propelled away from the black hole's center, preserving both his complete divine consciousness and physical body.]

[Ruan Mei: Perhaps due to this, Bai Heng's consciousness managed to endure. Now within Bailu's body, there exist dual souls in unity. Currently, Bailu's consciousness is dominant while Bai Heng's serves as secondary.]

[Qingque: Ah? Is...is that plausible?]

[Herta: Ruan Mei is an expert; if she says it makes sense, then it likely does.]

[Ruan Mei: The key point isn't about plausibility but rather the reality of the situation. Existence itself implies reason. If something seems implausible, it's probably due to a misunderstanding or error in perception.]

[Stelle: Nodding(Upside-down smiley) Arms crossed, I completely understand now!]

[Silver Wolf: You understand again?]

[Stelle: The key point isn't whether it's plausible... It's simply that Bai Heng is indeed still alive! Isn't that enough?!]

[Firefly: Uh, you're right!]

[Seele: Stelle's groundbreaking wisdom!]

[Bai Heng: Just now, while Bailu was watching the live stream, I observed it alongside her.]

[Bai Heng: She cried uncontrollably, sigh, it truly broke my heart...]

[March 7th: Ohh! No wonder Bailu felt such empathy when reading Bai Heng's story; there was this underlying reason behind it!]

[The discussion revolved around this topic for quite some time.]

[Naturally, Jingliu and Bai Heng had much to say to each other afterward, engaging in numerous private chats.]

[During the timeline of this live stream, they might have already learned this news in reality.]

[However, with their memories sealed, witnessing their past anew allowed them to experience the joy of reunion once more.]

[Clearly, this deepened the friendship between Jingliu and Bai Heng even further.]

***

In the live stream footage,

Bai Heng, still in Bailu's form, after chatting with Su Qing for a bit, softly asked, "Su Qing, could you give me a head pat?"

[Firefly: ???]

[Firefly: I've never even gotten a head pat from Su Qing!]

[Silver Wolf: @Bai Heng, turning small just to seize the opportunity for a head pat, huh?!]

[Silver Wolf: Didn't you hide your feelings for Su Qing because of Jingliu? How does this fit in??]

[Bai Heng: Ah, well... (somewhat embarrassed) It's been so long since I last saw Su Qing, and I couldn't resist at that moment.]

[Bai Heng: It's just a head pat, shouldn't be a big deal...]

[Jingliu: No harm done.]

[Stelle: There it is! Jingliu's classic "no harm done" opener!]

[Jingliu: In the past, Bai Heng willingly concealed her feelings for Su Qing because of me.]

[Jingliu: Even until death, she never expressed her true sentiments. Seeing her transformed into the Dragon of Misfortune, peacefully resting beside Su Qing, truly saddened me.]

[Jingliu: I deeply regretted my lack of perceptiveness and lamented that there was no chance for a redo. Bai Heng silently sacrificed so much for me, yet I remained completely oblivious.]

[Bai Heng: Jingliu...]

[Jingliu: But now, we have this opportunity.]

[Jingliu: Therefore, if it's Bai Heng, I am willing to share Su Qing with her.]

[Jingliu: ... (additional note) Of course, only if Su Qing agrees as well.]

[These words shock the entire world!]

[Firefly: Ah???]

[Silver Wolf: ?????]

[Kafka: ?]

[Himeko: ???]

[Kafka: @Jingliu, you're setting a very dangerous precedent here.]

[Himeko: @Jingliu, such statements should not be made lightly. Do you realize the impact these words can have on the current situation?]

[Silver Wolf: There can only be one champion; you're breaking this fundamental rule!]

[Firefly: I haven't even entered yet, and you're already discussing sharing Su Qing? That's outrageous!]

[Sparkle (laughing uproariously): hahahahahaha!! The others are so flustered! So very flustered!]

[Sparkle: Jingliu: Us three enjoying life together would be better than anything else.jpg]

[Sparkle: Others: No way! You can't do this, don't do this!!?]

[Black Swan: ...I think Jingliu's idea, well, isn't it quite good?]

[Kafka: ???]

[Himeko: ?????]

[Kafka: Organizer, please refrain from commenting. Aren't you supposed to remain absolutely neutral?!]

[Black Swan (smiling): Alright, just a casual remark.]

[Bai Heng: I'm deeply moved; I never expected you to go this far for me, Jingliu.?]

[Bai Heng: However...(somewhat hesitant) Will Su Qing accept it?]

[Firefly: Oh no!! Even Bai Heng thinks it might work!]

[Silver Wolf: Damn!]

Despite the heated debate in the chat, the live stream continued unabated.

Su Qing looked at "Bailu" with slight curiosity but shrugged it off, gently stroking her head.

Bai Heng's eyes contentedly narrowed, his dragon tail swaying back and forth.

[Silver Wolf: Who knew such a simple head pat would lead to this massive debate!]

[Silver Wolf: Whoever questioned the head pat earlier, step forward!!!?]

[Silver Wolf: (Checking the logs)... Oh, it was me. Never mind then.]

[Sparkle: ???]

[Herta: Unbelievable, entertaining yourself alone?]

[Stelle: Enjoying it!]

[Seele: Hahahaha, too funny.]

[March 7th: The little Silver Wolf's status as a comedic character keeps rising!]

After Su Qing gently patted her head, Bai Heng felt a wave of drowsiness wash over her, realizing it was almost time.

She said, "Su Qing, I'm very glad to see you again."

Glad to see you again?

As Su Qing glanced at the recipe, his brain automatically interpreted it and translated internally to pleased to meet you.

He responded, "I'm also very pleased to meet you."

Following that, Bai Heng, feeling sleepy, lay down next to Su Qing and drifted off to sleep.

Only a short while passed.

Just as Su Qing was about to cover Bailu with a blanket again, she woke up.

Su Qing instinctively ruffled her hair once more. "Did you only nap for that brief moment?"

Still groggy from waking up, Bailu protested half-heartedly, "I've told you already, don't touch my head; I won't grow tall..."

"Huh? That feels so nice..."

The head-patting charm took effect; Bailu found it incredibly soothing and stopped resisting immediately.

Su Qing, puzzled, asked, "Didn't you just ask me to pat your head?"

Bailu, equally perplexed, replied, "D-did I really say that?"

Hmm...

After a brief moment of thought, she quickly shrugged it off.

Ah well! Considering how delightful the head pats feel, there's no need to dwell on it too much!

Still groggy from sleep, Bailu leaned against the table, savoring the gentle touch. Her eyes narrowed contentedly as her tail swayed back and forth. She felt even more fondness towards Su Qing.

Not only does he cook delicious meals, but his head pats are wonderfully comforting, and he doesn't nag or lecture me...

Indeed, Su Qing is not just any good person—he's truly a great one! Better than those adults in the Alchemy Commission, for sure!

[Qingque: Come to think of it, since Bai Heng is still around, could the High-Cloud Quintet reunite again?]

[March 7th: Hoping to see them together once more!]

[Stelle: Blade Flash Bro and Dan Feng might also find some relief upon hearing about Bai Heng's survival...]

[Bai Heng: I dearly hope we can all reunite!]

[Bai Heng: ...Ah, it seems like I'm about to wake up here.]

[Jingliu: @Bai Heng, should we inform Bailu, who's watching the live stream, of your existence?]

[Bai Heng: The current Bailu watching the live stream likely already knows about me, right? It's just that her memories have been sealed by the Black Swan.]

[Bai Heng: In that case, revealing it now would be akin to spoilers, ruining little Bailu's viewing experience. She'll find out herself once the stream reaches that point~]

[Jingliu: Hmm, true.]

In the small shop...

Another leisurely afternoon had passed.

Then Su Qing's phone rang. Picking it up, he saw it was a video call request from Asta.

[Black Swan: Alright, after enjoying some light-hearted moments, it's time to return to Asta's segment.]

[March 7th: Ah?]

[March 7th: Does this mean that when Asta calls now, she has just finished reading the love letter?!]

[Black Swan: Seems so.]

[Stelle: OMG!!]