When Kamisato Ayato was a boy, before his parents passed away, there was one night he got up to use the bathroom. Passing by their room, he accidentally caught sight of his parents in a rather intimate moment. Back then, his father had told him they were "practicing wrestling."
Now that he was grown, Ayato naturally understood that "wrestling" had meant something else entirely. But never would he have imagined that both times he heard the word, it would somehow involve his own family.
And not just wrestling—his sister was actually wearing his old helmet to "wrestle" with another man.
What was that if not a kind of twisted cuckoldry?
At this point, Ayato didn't even know what shocked him more—that his sister might be fooling around with someone, or that her tastes had taken such a strange turn.
"I understand." Ayato adjusted his collar, face blank. "I'll go take a look. Don't worry, they're only wrestling. And don't tell anyone about this."
Watching him leave, Sayu tilted her head and muttered, "They really are wrestling. Could it be… he misunderstood?"
The moment he stepped outside, Ayato's composure evaporated. He broke into a run, nothing like the calm, unflappable head of the Kamisato Clan that everyone knew.
...
Cut to Lucas's side.
He and Kamisato Ayaka had already exchanged dozens of moves.
The girl before him was no real match. In swordplay, she might have managed some back-and-forth, but in close combat—when it came to raw strength—she couldn't withstand even a single bout.
Still, for the sake of her pride, Lucas deliberately held back his speed and power to make it look even. Yet the difference in ability was impossible to hide.
If Raiden Mai's match against Madarame Hyakubei had been like a teacher guiding a student, then Lucas's sparring with Ayaka was more like an adult humoring a child.
Ayaka might have looked delicate, but she was stubbornly competitive. Realizing Lucas wasn't taking her seriously, she grew annoyed. Suddenly, she caught hold of his shoulder, trying to use a clever Kamisato family technique to throw him with minimal force.
The move was subtle and impressive, even Lucas found himself a little surprised. But the gulf in strength between them was too wide. No amount of technique could make up for it.
Lucas smirked inwardly, letting himself topple. But just as Ayaka thought she had won, he suddenly wrapped his arms around her waist. The world spun, and when she came to her senses, she was flat on her back with Lucas pinning her down.
The position, however, was… less than proper.
Lucas quickly realized it too. Pressing a young lady beneath him wasn't exactly decent. But if he released her, it would only prove that he had seen through her disguise as a man—and that would embarrass her even more.
This must be what they meant by being stuck between a tiger's teeth.
Wait. If he just made her yield, that would solve everything.
"Give up," Lucas said at once.
"It's… it's not over!" Ayaka struggled beneath him. "I… I can still fight!"
Even though she was clad in armor, the thought that beneath it was a flustered girl writhing against him sent a strange thrill through Lucas.
"Stop!"
A desperate shout cut through the air. Even before Lucas saw the speaker, he felt the killing intent surge toward him. Instinctively, he leapt away.
A flash of steel came down where he'd been.
He didn't even need to dodge—Shenhe and Raiden Mai were already at his sides, spear and blade crossing to block the sudden strike.
The attacker was a tall, sharp-eyed man with short pale-blue hair, his expression like ice.
No need to ask—Kamisato Ayato.
Normally his emotions were hidden deep beneath his composed exterior. But seeing his sister pinned beneath a strange man, even he lost control.
"In broad daylight, to commit such shameful acts…" Ayato's brow furrowed. "Whoever you are—"
Then his expression changed.
The "stranger" pressing down on his sister looked exactly like the villain he had seen in that bizarre nightmare.
Like a sudden wave of PTSD, fear surged unbidden. Still, he forced himself to remain steady. "I won't forgive you!"
"Brother!"
Ayaka scrambled up, tearing off her helmet and mask. Her face was conflicted. "No… it's not what you think! I… I asked him to spar with me!"
"What?" Ayato blinked, stunned. Before he could react further, Shenhe flipped her spear and cracked him over the head with the butt.
As darkness closed in, he heard the silver-haired woman's irritated voice:
"Still mouthing off, huh?"
...
What happened?
He had no idea how much time passed before his eyes fluttered open. He was lying on the tatami in his own room. His sister knelt beside him, smiling sweetly.
Ayato felt utterly drained, unable to even sit up. He turned his head toward her and exhaled in relief. "So… it was all just a nightmare? Hm? What's that around your neck?"
Around Ayaka's pale throat was a black leather collar, utterly out of place with her elegant attire.
"This?" Ayaka tilted her head, her eyes hazy with adoration. "It's a gift from my master."
Ayato's heart lurched. "M… master?"
"That's right."
A familiar figure appeared out of nowhere like a ghost. It was Lucas—the very nightmare Ayato dreaded. In his hand was a rope, connected directly to the collar around Ayaka's neck.
He looked down at Ayato with a wicked grin. "Sorry, but your sister's my pet now."
Kamisato Ayaka nuzzled her head against the back of the man's hand, her face full of bliss, like a pampered little pet.
The sight shattered Kamisato Ayato's composure. He forced himself upright with every ounce of strength he had and shouted, "That kind of thing… absolutely not!!!"
In that instant, it was as if reality itself split apart.
The scene around him crumbled into shards, and when Ayato came back to his senses, he found himself surrounded by a circle of people.
Besides his sister and Madarame Hyakubei, there stood four others: Yae Miko and the three she had brought along.
Seeing him awake, Lucas patted Shenhe's shoulder and said, "Go on, apologize."
Shenhe pouted, but still stepped forward and said curtly, "Sorry. I shouldn't have attacked you just now… but you struck first. Don't blame me for responding."
With Ayato's skill, there was no way Shenhe could have taken him down so easily. He had been caught off guard because his mind was elsewhere.
Even so, an attack on the Yashiro Commission was considered a serious crime in Inazuma.
He opened his mouth to speak, but Yae Miko cut in with casual ease. "This Miss Shenhe happens to be the junior disciple of Liyue's Qixing emissary Ganyu, and the last closed-door disciple of Cloud Retainer herself. Yashiro Commissioner, I think it'd be better not to pursue the matter."
Ayato, like Yae Miko, was sharp enough to hear what she was really saying. With names like the Qixing and an adeptus of the Three-Eyed Five Manifestations invoked, what could his title of Yashiro Commissioner compare to?
He could only force a smile. "It's fine. Since she's a guest invited by Lady Guuji, she can't be a bad person. I acted rashly—surely this was all a misunderstanding."
"Yes…" Ayaka murmured, still shaken. "I've never seen you… so impulsive before, brother."
"No, no, you can't blame him," Lucas said quickly. "If it had been me in his place, I'd have lost control too." He extended his hand toward Ayato with genuine sincerity. "I'm Lucas. Please don't hold my behavior just now against me, Commissioner."
Looking at Ayato, Lucas felt an odd pang of guilt. Was it because of pinning his sister beneath him moments ago—or because of how cruelly he had punished Ayato in the Simulator?
But Ayato's heart was roiling like a storm.
Yes. It was definitely him.
It wasn't only because of that nightmare. Ever since the Simulator's strange influence, Ayato had been waking from dream after dream, all of them repeating the same unbearable scenes: Lucas, right in front of him, indulging in every kind of depravity with Ayaka.
Even so, Ayato was too rational to truly believe dreams could shape reality. He forced himself to extend his hand, shaking Lucas's stiffly. "No… think nothing of it. Just call me Ayato."
Relieved that Ayato didn't seem to dislike him, Lucas smiled. "That feels too distant. You're a few years older than me—if you don't mind, I'll just call you brother ayato."
By rank, Lucas as the husband of a Qixing emissary was no less than a Yashiro Commissioner. If anything, Ayato was getting the better end of the courtesy. Yet for some reason, the title still felt strange on his ears.
Ayaka, on the other hand, flushed bright red when she heard Lucas call her brother "brother."
"I think even 'brother' sounds a little too formal," Yae Miko said with a sly blink. "Why not marry Ayaka, and then you can just call him 'brother-in-law' instead?"
It was clearly a joke, but it still left Ayaka too embarrassed to lift her head. Before she could respond, Ayato blurted out, "Absolutely not!"
In truth, Ayato's feelings for his sister were nothing but familial affection. He had no intention of interfering in her future marriage.
But marry Lucas? Anyone but him.
Just seeing that man's smile made his skin crawl. If they became family—forced to see each other day in and day out—Ayato was sure he'd go mad.
His outburst made the room fall silent.
Realizing he'd gone too far, Ayato gave a dry laugh. "What I meant was, Ayaka is still young. It's far too early to be talking about marriage… Anyway, it's late. Why don't you all stay for dinner, as an apology for my earlier behavior?"
The Yashiro Commission had weakened somewhat after recent upheavals, but as one of the three great Commissions, the Kamisato Clan still maintained its dignity.
Though it looked like an ordinary meal, the guests at that table were all figures of great weight. Lucas and Shenhe were closely tied to Ganyu of the Qixing, Raiden Mai was secretly the body double of the Raiden Shogun herself, and presiding over it all was Yae Miko, Guuji of the Grand Narukami Shrine.
Wine flowed, dishes came and went.
"Excuse me," Lucas finally said, rising to his feet. "Where's the restroom?"
Ayaka had been waiting for a chance to be alone with him. She quickly stood and smiled. "As it happens, I'd like some fresh air too. Let me show you the way."
Lucas thought nothing of it and followed her out.
They walked down the long corridor at an unhurried pace. But instead of leading him to the restroom, Ayaka stopped before another room.
"Master Lucas," she said softly, hesitating. "There's actually something I… I'd like to discuss with you. Would you come inside for a moment?"
Lucas had already noticed her steps faltering earlier, and guessed she had something on her mind. He nodded. "Of course. But can't we talk out here? A man and a woman alone in a room… it might not look proper."
Ayaka's heart wavered. In her dreams, this man had been a shameless villain who did whatever he pleased. Yet here he stood, upright and principled.
Could it really be that there was no connection at all between them?
"It's fine. This is my home." Kamisato Ayaka shook her head, pushed open the door, and walked straight in without looking back. "No one would dare spread idle gossip."
Though she seemed delicate, Ayaka's gentleness hid a firm strength. Even now, her words carried a faint but undeniable authority.
She had always been capable and exceptional in her own right. It was only her brother's dazzling brilliance that left her in his shadow. Lucas thought to himself that even without Kamisato Ayato, she would surely have grown quickly and held up the Kamisato Clan on her own.
"Looks like I was overthinking it." Lucas followed her inside and shut the door. "If there's something on your mind, just say it. As long as I can help, I won't refuse."
"You really are generous with your help, Master Lucas." Ayaka covered her lips with a soft laugh. "But I wonder—is it just me you treat this way, or do you extend that courtesy to everyone?"
What kind of line was that—straight out of a tragic heroine's script?
"Of course not. I know who deserves what." Lucas shrugged with a smile. "Besides, I did wrong by you before. Making up for it now is only right."
At once, the memory flashed in Ayaka's mind—herself clad in armor, pinned beneath Lucas. Her cheeks flushed red. "P-please… don't bring that up again."
"Alright, alright." Lucas chuckled. "So, whatever it is, just say it."
By all rights, the two of them had only just met today. A little awkwardness would have been natural. But perhaps because they had already shared countless intimate encounters within the Simulator, there was no trace of strangeness between them.
"You already know the origins and rules of the Transmission of Heart. Lady Guuji must have explained them." Ayaka's expression turned serious. "But I wonder—did she also tell you that I am serving as the Divine Emissary's Aide this year?"
"I've heard a little." Lucas nodded. "In ancient times, the finest swordsman of Inazuma could earn the honor of sparring with the Shogun herself. But the gap between mortals and gods was far too great, so the gods would assign an aide to assist the champion. That role was called the Divine Emissary's Aide. Correct?"
"It seems you've done your homework." Ayaka nodded. "As the aide, my duty is to support the champion of Transmission of Heart in their battle against the emissary the Shogun dispatches."
Indeed, with the Raiden Shogun's power, whether she faced one mortal or two made little difference. That was why she never entered the field herself, instead sending a powerful emissary to fight in her stead.
"Let me guess." Lucas rubbed his chin. "You think I'll win the championship, so you came to talk strategy?"
"That's right. As much as it vexes me, when we fought earlier, I could tell…" Ayaka let out a sigh. "You're far stronger than me."
She was a warrior of exceptional talent, no less gifted than her brother. Among the younger generation, she was nearly unmatched. Yet only after crossing blades with Lucas did she truly understand the saying: there's always someone stronger out there.
"There's also something else you should know. The rumors about this year's Transmission of Heart… if the champion wins the exhibition match," Ayaka continued, "they may ask the Shogun for a single favor."
"I've heard that," Lucas scratched the back of his head. "In fact… that's why I came."
"The rumor is true. What's more, if the champion and the aide win, both are granted a wish." Ayaka fixed her gaze on him. "So no matter what, I must win this match."
"If it's just an exhibition, it shouldn't be too hard to win, right?" Lucas mused.
"No. In fact, in the past several decades of Transmission of Heart sword tournaments…" Ayaka frowned slightly. "Not once has a champion and their aide defeated the Shogun's emissary."
Of course—knowing the Raiden Shogun's nature, she would never deliberately hold back.
So this "exhibition match" wasn't meant to showcase the contestants at all, but rather to demonstrate the Shogun's overwhelming might?
"Then what I don't understand is this." Lucas tilted his head, puzzled. "Even if I win the championship, I'd fight alongside you with everything I have. Why come to me now?"
"Because I have a way to greatly increase our chances." Ayaka walked over to the sword stand in the room. She lifted two blades and held them out. "These were forged from rare magnetic ore from Snezhnaya. They are called 'Thunder Guide' and 'Thunder Release.' The first absorbs electro energy, and the second releases it."
Huh. So Inazuma had its own brand of wild tech tricks too?
"There's actually something like this?" Lucas drew Thunder Release. At once he noticed the blade's texture was unlike any ordinary katana. "So you plan to use these against the Shogun's emissary?"
"Yes." Ayaka nodded. "But to wield them effectively in real battle, we'll need time to train. I have to decide on the champion in advance and practice together with him."
"In that case…" Lucas smiled. "Why don't we give it a try right now?"
——
While the two practiced swordplay in the room, at the dining table Kamisato Ayato was growing restless.
It was supposed to be just a quick trip to the restroom. Did it really take this long?
What on earth were they doing?
"How odd." Yae Miko smiled slyly. "Why have they been gone so long?"
"That guy isn't taking the chance to do something weird to her, is he?" Shenhe, ever straightforward, pushed back her chair and stood. "I'll drag him back myself."
Why did she have to say 'again'?!
Did that mean Lucas was already a repeat offender?
Unpleasant images began flashing through Ayato's mind.
"M-maybe I should go instead." He forced a calm look and rose quickly. "My home is rather large. If they got lost, that would be troublesome. Please wait here a moment—I'll be right back."
As Kamisato Ayato rose, Yae Miko couldn't resist tossing in a parting jab. "Commissioner, it's best to be sure before you act. Otherwise… you might get carried away again."
"Your guidance is noted, Lady Guuji." Ayato smiled faintly before striding out of the room.
He and Yae Miko—one young fox, one old—were evenly matched in cunning. But since this matter involved Ayaka, he couldn't keep his composure.
Ayato hurried down the corridor, but saw no trace of Lucas or his sister. Just then, Madarame Hyakubei came by carrying a stack of documents. He bowed lightly. "Greetings, my lord."
Though Ayato was head of the family, his youth made him approachable. Servants and retainers spoke to him without fear.
"Wait a moment." Ayato stopped him. "Have you seen Ayaka just now?"
"The young lady?" Hyakubei hesitated briefly before answering honestly. "I saw her enter a room… together with Master Lucas."
What?!
Ayato's pupils contracted, though his face stayed calm. "I-I see. They must be discussing something about Transmission of Heart. Which room was it?"
"End of the hall, second door on the right." Hyakubei, sharp as always, quickly added, "No one else noticed—only me."
Ayato gave an approving nod before hurrying off.
Hyakubei watched him go, muttering under his breath. "Master Lucas seems like a decent fellow. But he's still a foreigner. Surely the clan head won't let the young lady marry outside…"
——
Ayato walked briskly to the indicated room, but as he neared the door he slowed, pressing his ear against it.
Inside, he heard Lucas's voice. "N-no… it's stuck. I can't pull it out."
Ayaka sounded anxious. "That's impossible. It slid in so easily before…"
"Maybe it's because it's the first time using it," Lucas said. "Do you have any kind of oil? Something for lubrication?"
Ayaka sighed. "I don't have anything on hand. Maybe just try harder?"
"Is that safe? What if I break it? It'd be a shame to ruin something this fine the first time it's used."
"It's alright. It was made for you. Just pull it out with force. Even if it breaks, I—"
"It mustn't break!"
Ayato's blood rushed to his head. He could stand it no longer. He shoved the door open—
—and froze.
Ayaka held a katana. Lucas's hand was on the hilt, straining to draw it.
Startled by Ayato's sudden entrance, Lucas jerked, and with a metallic "shing," the blade slid free, humming with energy.
So… they were drawing swords?
Cold sweat trickled down Ayato's temple. But he quickly forced a smile. "A fine blade like this mustn't be damaged."
"Brother, what are you doing here?" Ayaka looked at him suspiciously. "Were you… eavesdropping outside?"
"O-of course not!" Ayato protested. "I just happened to walk by and overheard. Anyway… what are you two doing?"
Ayaka recounted briefly what she had just explained to Lucas.
"So it was only sword practice?" Ayato let out a breath. "You gave me quite a scare. I thought you were—"
Ayaka tilted her head. "Brother, thought we were what?"
Ayato's face reddened. He quickly changed the subject. "Nothing. It's getting late. We should see Lady Guuji and the others off."
"Brother, actually… I have one small request." Ayaka fidgeted with her fingers. "Since Transmission of Heart is about to begin, I'd like Master Lucas to stay at the Kamisato Estate for a while. That way, we'll have more time to train together."
Ayato's heart sank. Wasn't this just letting a wolf into the house?
As her brother, it should have been his duty to guide Ayaka's sword practice. But as commissioner, his daily duties left him no time. Still, letting this man live under his roof, constantly at his sister's side…
If this continued, those bizarre nightmare scenarios might actually come true.
He didn't want to come home one day and find Lucas holding Ayaka's hand, greeting him with a casual, "Hey old man, is the gate ghost ward working alright?"
"That… may not be appropriate." Ayato put on a troubled expression. "It's not that I distrust Master Lucas. But having an unfamiliar man stay in the Kamisato Estate could be inconvenient."
It was a polite but clear dismissal. Lucas didn't take offense. After all, he'd just played the role of Ayato in the Simulator, and could understand his feelings.
He was about to speak when a lilting laugh came from outside the door.
"No need to worry. If I stay here as well, surely no one will gossip."
Yae Miko strolled in without a sound, winking at Lucas before turning a playful smile on Ayato. "Or are you saying you don't trust me either?"
She wasn't a god, but her standing in Inazuma was nearly equal to the Raiden Shogun's. Ayato naturally didn't dare offend her. But then he thought—if all these women were present, and he kept a close watch himself, Lucas would hardly have a chance to lay a finger on his sister.
"Of course I trust you," Ayato said smoothly. "I didn't mean to drive anyone away. I only feared my hospitality might fall short."
"Then it's settled." Yae Miko's fox-like eyes glimmered with hidden amusement. "Oh, and tonight I'll share a room with little Ayaka. It's been years—I want to have a long chat."
Ayato thought, If Ayaka is with Yae Miko, at least I won't have to worry about Lucas trying anything overnight.
He quickly nodded. "Excellent. I'll have the rooms prepared at once."
After a long, exhausting day, everyone was finally settled.
Perhaps out of fear that Lucas still harbored "impure thoughts" toward his sister, Kamisato Ayato deliberately arranged his room right next to his own. That way, the slightest noise would immediately reach his ears.
Lucas, however, misunderstood completely. He thought Ayato valued him as a newly made "friend" and wanted to be close by. He even felt moved by the gesture.
Of course, his feelings toward Ayato were complicated. Maybe it was because he had tormented him too badly inside the Simulator, but in reality Lucas wanted to make it up to him, if only to ease his own guilt.
The Kamisato Estate had more than enough guest rooms. Aside from Yae Miko, who insisted on sharing a room with Ayaka, the others each had their own.
Meanwhile, in Raiden Mai's quarters.
Ever since the "system upgrade," she had become fundamentally different from the other puppets created by the Raiden Shogun. And now, she carried an even more unusual role—Raiden Ei's "double" in the mortal world.
She sat cross-legged on her bed, eyes closed. Within her mind, she was reporting recent events to the supreme ruler of Inazuma.
In the void, Raiden Ei asked coldly, "So. You're all living at the Kamisato Estate now?"
"Yes." Raiden Mai nodded. "From what I know, it was Kamisato Ayaka's idea. She wanted to practice swordsmanship with Master."
"Ayaka is this year's Divine Emissary's Aide. It's not strange she wants to win," Ei replied. "But why is she so certain Lucas will reach the finals?"
From Ei's perspective, the two had only just met. Ayaka's conviction was odd.
"Maybe because they've already fought," Mai answered truthfully. "If I were Ayaka, I would have chosen him too."
"Hmph. Now I'm even more curious about his true strength." Ei's eyes narrowed. "As for their training, don't pry, and don't tell me. Knowing in advance would only spoil the fun."
Mai exhaled quietly in relief. Though she obeyed Ei, deep down her sympathies leaned more toward Lucas.
"Good. Then let them practice without interruption." Ei's gaze flickered with faint anticipation. "Make sure nothing disturbs them."
"Speaking of disturbances…" Mai hesitated, then said, "Ayaka's brother, Kamisato Ayato, doesn't seem to approve of her spending too much time with Lucas. Even if he allows their training, I suspect he'll try something behind the scenes."
"Since their parents' deaths, he's grown more protective of her. That's natural." Ei pondered, then said, "I'll take care of this immediately. Just keep reporting to me."
"Yes, my lady…"
She thought the conversation was over, but suddenly Ei said, without warning, "I always reward merit and punish failure. If you carry out this surveillance perfectly, I'll grant you one request."
Mai's pupils widened slightly. After a pause, she bowed her head. "Thank you."
Ei seemed taken aback by the reply. Then she said, "So you really are different from the others."
Mai blinked. "I… don't understand."
"If I told another puppet this, its answer would be, 'I have no requests.'" For once, Ei's lips curved in a faint smile. "But you already have a wish of your own. Once this is over, our ties will be cut. I have no need for a puppet with self-awareness."
With that, her form vanished instantly from Mai's vision.
Mai sat in silence for a long while before whispering, "Th-thank you…"
——
The next morning, at the Kamisato Estate's training grounds.
Lucas and Ayaka were practicing with the magnet-forged blades. Their sparring partner was none other than Yae Miko.
After all, aside from her, there really wasn't anyone else with an electro vision suited for the task.
"Take this!"
Yae Miko flicked her wrist, sending an arc of lightning crashing toward them. Ayaka immediately raised Thunder Guide. The blade truly absorbed the electro power, but only for about a second before it began to shudder violently and spark.
"Careful!"
Without thinking, Lucas seized Thunder Guide from her. Sparks sizzled, then died away. But white smoke curled from his arm, and his sleeve split open instantly.
"Are you alright?!" Ayaka rushed forward, clutching his arm. It was hot to the touch. Her heart clenched with guilt. "I'm sorry. It was my mistake. If I'd just handled it better…"
"It's fine." Lucas rotated his arm with a grin. "Just a little tingly, that's all."
"My, my. Struck by this Guuji's lightning and you only feel a tingle?" Yae Miko arched a brow and smirked. "What, am I too weak for you?"
"You were holding back, weren't you?" Lucas said dryly. "Otherwise there's no way I could've kept control so easily."
"Heehee. You saw through me." Yae Miko shook her head. "Drawing in electro power with magnetism is clever. But the sword can only hold so much. If it overloads, not only will the blade shatter, the wielder could be caught in the backlash."
"I… I see." Ayaka let out a sigh. "I was too naïve."
Seeing her downcast look, Lucas felt a pang of discomfort. Then, suddenly, a thought struck him.
What Thunder Guide couldn't handle—maybe his own "Raikiri" could.
[Blade of Legend: Raikiri]
[Rank: S]
[Effects:
Extremely sharp, never dulls.
Lightning Reversal: When struck by electro attacks, can counterattack. Effect depends on execution:
– Fail: No effect
– Normal: Reduces damage by 50%
– Excellent: Completely negates damage
– Perfect: Negates damage and fully reflects it back to the attacker]
[Description: A blade forged specifically to assassinate the Raiden Shogun. Holds the potential to wound a god, with unique bonuses against electro attacks.]
Reading Raikiri's description, Lucas's resolve only grew firmer.
"Ayaka, your idea isn't wrong—it's just the weapon that falls short." Lucas smiled. "If you don't mind, could I make some modifications to this sword?"
Ayaka blinked in surprise. "You can forge blades?"
"When I was in Mondstadt, I studied a few techniques," Lucas said smoothly, spinning a quick excuse. "Give me half a day and I should have it done."
"Then I'll leave it to you." Ayaka nodded. "At this point, it's worth trying anything."
"You're still not done training? I'm bored out of my mind…"
A tall figure stepped into the training yard—Shenhe. But her words cut off the moment she saw Lucas's arm, still faintly smoking. She rushed forward, grabbing it with both hands. "What happened to you?!"
Lucas winced. "Ow ow ow ow!"
"Of course it hurts!" Shenhe snapped. "It's burned this badly!"
"The burn doesn't hurt," Lucas said helplessly. "It's your grip—you're squeezing too hard."
"You… that's your own fault for being careless!" Shenhe's face flushed red. "Honestly, I take my eyes off you for one moment and you end up like this?"
"It's just a scratch. Nothing to worry about," Lucas said lightly. "No need to fuss."
"My senior sister entrusted you to me!" Shenhe jabbed a finger against his chest, scolding. "If you get hurt, it means I failed. Come on, I'm putting medicine on it."
With that, she all but dragged him away. Lucas could only wave back toward Ayaka, exasperated. "I'll finish the modifications and then we can train more… hey, easy, easy, I can walk on my own…"
Watching them disappear, Ayaka's face clouded with a faint sense of loss. She let out a long sigh.
"What's this?"
Yae Miko appeared at her side like a specter, grinning. "Feeling jealous?"
"Lady Guuji?" Ayaka's cheeks went scarlet. "I… I don't know what you mean…"
"Oh, don't play dumb." Yae Miko patted her shoulder with a sly smile. "You're envious of how close Lucas and Shenhe are, aren't you?"
Ayaka lowered her head, voice soft. "Lucas truly is kind to me. But it feels more like courtesy than anything else. No matter what, I can't bridge the gap the way Shenhe can…"
Then, startled, she quickly added, "B-but I don't have any strange thoughts about Lucas! I only meant that, as partners, being closer would be ideal."
"I understand, I understand."
Yae Miko's eyes narrowed with amusement. "What if I told you I had a way to make Lucas treat you just like he treats Shenhe? Would you try it?"
Ayaka stared, bewildered. "There's no way something like that exists."
"Come now. I'm the Guuji of the Grand Narukami Shrine. Having a few secret arts isn't strange at all." Yae Miko leaned closer, coaxing. "I don't hand out chances lightly. Miss this one, and it's gone."
Ayaka hesitated, then finally nodded as if steeling herself. "In that case… I'll trouble you, Lady Guuji."
Half an hour later.
"So, Lady Yae, Miss Ayaka…"
In her room, Shenhe eyed the two women before her, puzzled. "What business do you have with me?"
"It's simple," Yae Miko said with rare seriousness. "I've been researching an interesting spell called the Soul-Swapping Technique. It allows two people's souls to temporarily exchange bodies."
"Your Inazuma spells really are behind the times," Shenhe said bluntly. "My master worked that out ages ago."
If anyone else had said that, Yae Miko might have argued. But recalling Shenhe's master was none other than Cloud Retainer, an adeptus with millennia of cultivation, she could only laugh awkwardly. "Naturally, I can't compare to your esteemed teacher. I only hope you'll help me test my version."
Shenhe tilted her head. "Why me?"
"Because the technique has restrictions." Yae Miko shrugged. "It only works on those with visions, and the two must share the same element. Since you and Ayaka both wield cryo visions, you're the only possible candidates."
"I see." Shenhe nodded. "That's fine."
Her easy agreement surprised both Yae Miko and Ayaka. They hadn't expected Shenhe to accept so readily.
"You… you're certain?" Yae Miko asked. "If you want conditions, we can discuss them."
"No need. Before I left the mountain, my master told me to do at least one good deed each day. This is just a small favor." Shenhe waved it off. "Besides, you've helped us a lot here in Inazuma. I should repay that."
"You people of Liyue really are loyal and sincere." Yae Miko hid her mischievous grin behind her hand. "Very well. Please sit facing each other, lie back with your hands to the sky, and close your eyes. I'll begin the spell."
Ayaka and Shenhe did as instructed. Yae Miko pressed a hand to each of their shoulders, murmuring incantations as light began to swirl within their bodies.
After about three minutes, she released them and smiled. "The spell is complete. You can open your eyes now."
A few seconds later, the two slowly opened their eyes.
Shenhe—or rather, Kamisato Ayaka inside Shenhe's body—looked down at her hands, then raised her gaze to the mirror and touched her own cheeks. She murmured, "I… I really turned into Miss Shenhe."
Meanwhile, the real Shenhe stretched lazily, utterly unconcerned. "No mistakes at all. Your spell's actually pretty practiced."
"How curious." Yae Miko tilted her head, intrigued. "Normally, someone undergoing the Soul-Swapping Technique for the first time would struggle to adjust. But you, Miss Shenhe, seem perfectly fine."
"My master used this spell on me before," Shenhe said offhandedly. "But since the mountains are deserted, my swap partners were usually animals. If I could get used to the bodies of birds and beasts, why not a human?"
"Then I won't worry." Yae Miko turned to Ayaka. "And you? Are you adjusting to your new body?"
"M-me?" Ayaka hesitated. "It's fine, but… suddenly being this tall feels strange. And…"
She glanced down at her chest, her face reddening, and trailed off.
Sharp as always, Yae Miko instantly caught her meaning. After all, Shenhe's figure was simply too striking—especially compared to Ayaka's. Now that Ayaka found herself with an unfamiliar, far more generous build, her shyness was only natural.
"This body really is impressive. You must train often." Shenhe, now in Ayaka's body, showed no such embarrassment. She jumped on the spot a few times and laughed. "And without those two burdens weighing me down, I feel so light! I'm jealous of you."
"R-really?" Ayaka forced a strained smile. "Then… thank you."
If she didn't know Shenhe's blunt nature, she might have thought Shenhe was bragging. After all, what Shenhe dismissed as "burdens" were things many girls could only dream of.
"Well, since the spell worked," Shenhe said, hands on hips, "when are we switching back?"
"My spell has flaws. It can't be cast twice in quick succession." Yae Miko's tone was shameless. "We'll have to wait at least a day."
"So my master's spell really is stronger." Shenhe wasn't upset. She flopped onto the bed casually. "Then we'll just deal with it."
"P-please don't sit like that…" Ayaka's face went scarlet watching Shenhe, in her body, cross her legs in such an unladylike pose. "It looks… improper."
Only then did Shenhe realize the problem. Normally, her tight battle garb kept everything secure. But Ayaka's flowing skirts made the slightest movement a risk.
"What a hassle…" Shenhe sighed, but obediently adjusted her posture. "Seems being a noble lady isn't easy."
"To avoid trouble, both of you need to mimic each other's habits until the spell ends," Yae Miko advised. "Especially you, Miss Shenhe. Ayaka is well known in Inazuma. If you act out of character, it'll cause problems."
"Don't make me sound uncouth. I'll just stay indoors." Shenhe waved it off—then froze, slapping her thigh. "Wait! I just told Lucas to take me shopping in the city. But now I'm Ayaka… what do I do?"
"That's simple." Yae Miko smiled slyly. "Ayaka can go in your place."
She nudged Ayaka's shoulder playfully. "As long as she acts convincing, no one will notice."
"That would work, but…" Shenhe's face twisted with regret. "That means I lose my chance to walk around with him. …Forget it. It's not like I care about shopping with him anyway."
Though her words dismissed it, Ayaka instantly noticed the disappointment in her eyes.
Ayaka wanted closeness with Lucas too, but she was kindhearted. She couldn't let Shenhe sacrifice her own time. Then inspiration struck.
"I have an idea," Ayaka said brightly. "Since the spell lasts a whole day, why don't I spend today with Lucas as Shenhe, and tomorrow Shenhe can be me and invite him out again? That way, we both get a chance."
"So that works too." Shenhe nodded, smiling. "No wonder you're the young lady. You always find a way."
Her straightforward nature left her oblivious to how strange it was to share Lucas's company under false identities.
"Since that's decided, practice each other's mannerisms now," Yae Miko said, grinning like someone settling in for a show. "Better than slipping up later."
"That's easy. Just copy the young lady, right?" Shenhe said breezily. "As long as I remember to walk and sit without flashing my—ahem—then it's fine?"
"Miss Shenhe, those are things every woman should mind," Ayaka said helplessly. "Not just me."
"Alright, alright." Shenhe waved her off impatiently. "But compared to me imitating you, you imitating me will be much harder."
"I-is that so?" Ayaka asked quickly. "Then what should I do to act more like you?"
"First, stop using polite speech every time you open your mouth," Shenhe said, circling her and scrutinizing her face. "Second, don't keep smiling. I never do that."
It was true. Ayaka's noble upbringing had trained her to wear a practiced smile at all times. To Shenhe, even seeing her own face smiling nonstop felt uncanny.
"I… I understand." Ayaka forced her expression stiff, smoothing away the smile. Her face went blank. "Like this?"
Shenhe rubbed her chin as she studied Kamisato Ayaka's scowling face, frowning a little herself.
In terms of looks and expression, it was practically identical to her own. And yet… something still felt off.
"Is… is there something strange about me?" Ayaka asked nervously.
"I've got it!" Shenhe's eyes lit up. She slapped Ayaka squarely on the back and said, "Why are you hunching your chest in? I always hold my head high and stand proud. When have I ever been so timid?"
Ayaka was, after all, a refined young lady—reserved and modest. Suddenly having to carry such immodest assets made her instinctively want to hide them. She didn't realize that Shenhe never cared about such things. On top of that, Cloud Retainer had taught her since childhood that a disciple of the adepti must stand properly at all times. So, to Shenhe, Ayaka's posture just looked awkward.
Ayaka straightened her back, though her cheeks flushed red. She simply couldn't fathom how the owner of this body could be so indifferent to something that was so embarrassingly conspicuous.
"If you ask me, it's best to just let things flow naturally," Yae Miko said with a shrug and a playful smile. "If you try too hard to fake it, it'll only look weirder."
"But if I can't pull off Miss Shenhe's mannerisms…" Ayaka fidgeted with her fingers, hesitating. "What if Lucas sees through me?"
"Then he sees through you," Shenhe said bluntly, clenching her fist. "If that happens, just tell the truth. I know that guy's personality well—at most, he'll be surprised. No way he'd get angry. Hmph, if he dared get mad at me, he'd be asking for death."
Watching Shenhe—using her own body—strike poses she never would, say things she never could, and wear expressions she'd never dare, Ayaka couldn't help but laugh. The tension in her chest eased away.
"If he really thinks you're acting odd, just say you've been feeling unwell lately," Yae Miko suggested slyly. "Girls have those few days every month when their tempers run a little hotter."
"Eh? That's a thing?" Shenhe blinked in surprise. "How come I never knew?"
"Probably because…" Yae tilted her head and smirked. "You've always had a hot temper."
Shenhe opened her mouth to retort, but before she could—creak—the door swung open. Lucas strode in and said, "Shenhe, didn't we agree to go shopping together? You—eh? Why are all of you here?"
Seeing three people crowded into Shenhe's room, Lucas couldn't help but be puzzled. If it were just Ayaka, that would be one thing. But with Yae Miko present too, it all felt a little suspicious.
"Broth—"
Shenhe nearly blurted out "brother-in-law," but Yae Miko quickly covered her mouth and cut in with a smile. "Why else? We're just here to chat with little Sister Shenhe. She came all the way to Inazuma alone. Of course we have to keep her company."
That was when Shenhe realized—right now she was supposed to be Kamisato Ayaka. If she had really called him "brother-in-law," she would've blown their cover on the spot. So she nodded and stammered, "Y-yes. I'm here to visit… my friend Shenhe."
Lucas had no idea the two women had swapped bodies. He just nodded. "Ayaka, I already reforged that blade for you, though it'll need a little more time."
Finally, Shenhe slipped into her role. Clearing her throat, she said, "That's fine. But weren't you going shopping with… my new friend Shenhe? Go on, don't keep her waiting."
"That's right," Yae Miko chimed in with a grin. "A gentleman can't break a promise to a lady."
"It's nothing big, just showing her around," Lucas said, looking slightly embarrassed. "If you two want to come along, you're welcome."
"N-no!" the real Shenhe blurted at once. "I… I need to practice my swordsmanship later. Shopping can wait until tomorrow."
"I don't want to play the third wheel either," Yae Miko added, winking. "Besides, I've wandered Inazuma's streets for five hundred years. I'm long past bored of them."
Moved by how much Shenhe and Yae Miko were helping her, Ayaka thought she couldn't let them down. She forced herself to recall Shenhe's mannerisms, clapped Lucas on the shoulder, and said, "Don't… don't waste time. Let's go!"
"Uh… alright." Lucas felt something was a little off but couldn't quite place it. So he simply went along with "Shenhe" and walked out the door.
Once the two had left, Yae Miko and Shenhe exchanged glances and shared a small smile.
"You really are strange," Yae said curiously. "You must've noticed that Ayaka has feelings for Lucas, and yet you're going out of your way to match them up."
"That girl isn't bad at all. She's pretty, her personality's good too," Shenhe said indifferently. "Better she end up with that fool than some stranger. Besides, Senior Sister Ganyu wouldn't mind a livelier household."
"So that's how Ganyu feels, hmm?" Yae narrowed her eyes, murmuring, "In that case, I can rest easy."
"Rest easy about what?" Shenhe asked, puzzled.
"Oh, nothing," Yae said with a delicate laugh, hiding her mouth behind her hand. "It's just been ages since I saw her. If I ever get the chance, I'd like to visit Liyue myself."
"That'd be good," Shenhe nodded. "Senior Sister Ganyu would be happy to see you."
"By the way," Yae said, as if remembering something, "they've gone out shopping. How are you planning to spend the time?"
"Me?" Shenhe answered casually. "Same as always—meditate in my room."
"That works, though it sounds boring," Yae said with mild disappointment. "Still, to avoid suspicion, you should rest in Ayaka's room for now."
...
Inazuma City, Hanamizaka.
Lucas walked side by side with Kamisato Ayaka. For some reason, though, the air between them felt strangely awkward.
It wasn't because of Ayaka's naturally reserved nature. In fact, if she were in her own body, she could easily carry herself with the grace of a noble lady and chat with Lucas with ease. But right now, she was in Shenhe's body, terrified that one careless word might give her away.
"Shenhe…"
In the end, it was Lucas who broke the awkward silence first. "I don't know why, but you seem… kind of different today."
Kamisato Ayaka froze for a moment before realizing he was talking to her. She almost smiled back instinctively, but then remembered what Shenhe had told her—that she rarely smiled. So she quickly wiped it away, her expression hardening as she said stiffly, "I… I'm fine."
Seeing "Shenhe" with such a cold, gloomy look, Lucas swallowed hard without thinking.
Fine?
Who would believe that?
Who in their right mind would say they were fine while looking like they wanted to tear you apart on the spot?
Lucas's thoughts swirled. Shenhe was different from other girls, sure, but she was still a girl. Having a few moods of her own wasn't impossible. Maybe… maybe she was mad because ever since coming to Inazuma he'd been too busy. And when she arrived, he'd ended up neglecting her without realizing.
If that was the case, then today he'd better treat her properly—make it up to her and ease her anger.
With that in mind, Lucas suddenly reached out and grabbed Ayaka's hand, smiling. "It's not often we get the chance. Let's have fun today."
H-he's holding my hand!
The warmth and roughness of his palm made Ayaka's whole body go rigid. She almost yanked it away on instinct.
But then, a familiar voice suddenly echoed in her mind.
"Don't let go. Just go with it."
That voice… Yae Miko?
Ayaka blinked, then cautiously asked in her thoughts, "Lady Guuji, is… is that you talking to me?"
"That's right. I used a spell to share some of your senses," Yae replied lazily. "Relax. I'll be your advisor, telling you what to do at the right moments."
"Lady Guuji…" Ayaka's heart swelled with gratitude. "Thank you."
"Think nothing of it. It's my duty."
Pure as she was, Ayaka had no way of knowing that at that very moment, Yae was happily munching fried tofu while watching this little "live broadcast," already plotting how to stir up even more amusement.
This was just too entertaining.
With Yae's "outside coaching," Ayaka relaxed a lot. Though it was her first time having such close contact with a man in real life, and her cheeks burned with shyness, she managed to adapt quickly.
If it were really Miss Shenhe here, she'd definitely be much more natural…
Still, under Yae's guidance, Ayaka was at least able to chat normally with Lucas. Keeping up the aloof front Shenhe was known for wasn't easy for her, but she learned fast. Before long, she had a decent grasp of how to act "more like" Shenhe.
As they walked down the street, they suddenly noticed a crowd gathered at the entrance of a restaurant ahead, like something was going on.
Even more coincidentally, outside the crowd Lucas spotted a familiar figure—Shikanoin Heizou, the one who had recently helped him and Yae search for clues.
"Well, if it isn't Lucas," Heizou said when he noticed them, waving with a grin. "And this young lady is…?"
"I-I'm Shenhe," Ayaka jumped in before Lucas could speak. "An old acquaintance of his from Liyue."
Old acquaintance, huh?
As a professional detective, Heizou was a master at reading people. He could tell right away that this silver-haired beauty's relationship with Lucas wasn't so simple. But being sharp also meant knowing when to keep quiet. He only smiled politely. "Nice to meet you. I'm Shikanoin Heizou—more or less a detective."
As the young lady of the Yashiro Commission, Ayaka knew of this Tenryou Commission investigator in passing. All the more reason she had to stay cautious—she couldn't risk letting him see through her act.
"So," Lucas asked curiously, "why's there such a big crowd here?"
"This place—Akasaka Restaurant—just opened and they're running a special event," Heizou shrugged. "I'm here to keep order and make sure nothing shady's going on."
"A special event?" Lucas raised a brow. "Don't openings usually just mean discounts to draw in customers?"
"Business has been tough lately. Restaurants are getting more and more desperate, coming up with all sorts of gimmicks," Heizou chuckled. "This time, the challenge is: if two guests kiss for over one minute without coming up for air, they get thirty percent off. If they last three minutes, fifty percent. And if they hit five minutes, not only is the whole meal free, they also get a luxury private room."
"You're kidding…"
Lucas looked up toward the stage, and sure enough, a young couple was locked in an embrace, kissing as the crowd cheered. Behind them, a clock ticked away, keeping time.
Unfortunately, after barely two minutes they broke apart, both red-faced and gasping for air. Clearly, that was about the limit for most people.
"Congratulations to this couple for earning a thirty percent discount coupon," the host announced, handing over the reward. "Anyone else want to give it a try? Coupons are first come, first served!"