Honkai Impact: I, The Herrscher of Ice, Am Loved By Players-Chapter 199: Werewolf in Paradise Begins; Raiden Mei as an Outsider

"At a time like this, Teacher, please don't joke around." Raiden Mei responded, somewhat anxiously. Honestly, seeing Ana's expression gave her a foreboding sense.

"Elysia...she's dead."

Spreading her hands, Ana slowly began, "How should I put this?" As she had anticipated, the Herrscher of Corruption struck first against Elysia—just last night.

Upon hearing Ana's words, Raiden Mei's pupils contracted sharply. After a brief moment of stunned silence, she took a deep breath.

"Ana-sensei, you're joking, right?"

Raiden Mei's voice carried a hint of hopefulness. She recalled that Ana-sensei often enjoyed making jokes. However, this time, there was no trace of jesting in Ana's eyes.

"I have no reason to joke with you."

With a shrug, Ana replied matter-of-factly. Then, she turned her gaze toward the distance where the Heroic Spirits of Eternal Paradise had gathered.

Undoubtedly, they had noticed Elysia's disappearance.

This wasn't surprising; everyone in this Elysian Realm was connected to Elysia in some way.

"The enemy lurks in the shadows," Ana murmured after a pause. With that, she started walking away.

Inform and collaborate with the other Heroic Spirits? In Ana's view, it wasn't necessary yet. If any of them dared to target her, she would welcome it eagerly.

To sow confusion among their own ranks was essentially to confuse their enemies as well.

After all, Ana herself represented the Garden's final trump card. Even the Heroic Spirits were not entirely clear about her true purpose here.

One could say that only Ana knew the full extent of the plan.

As for her being the ultimate ace up their sleeve, only Ellie, Eden, and Aponia were aware of it. These three formed another line of defense within the Elysian Realm.

In any case, each element interlocked seamlessly, ensuring foolproof security.

Of course, even without Ana's presence, the Elysian Realm would still be impregnable—especially with Kevin guarding its perimeter from outside.

Although they had no information on the external situation, based on Ana's memories, she recalled Kevin faithfully standing watch beyond the boundaries of the Elysian Realm.

From the moment the Herrscher of Corruption reincarnated here, its fate was sealed—a complete deadlock.

While entering the Elysian Realm required the Heroic Spirits' approval, when it came to saving this realm, Ana retained autonomy over her actions.

Regarding her true nature and the extent of her powers within the Garden, Ana had always been guarded, maintaining minimal interaction with the other Heroic Spirits.

To avoid any unforeseen circumstances, she even prepared backups and decoys.

Watching Ana's departing figure thoughtfully, Raiden Mei sensed that Ana-sensei was undoubtedly hiding something. However, no matter how hard she tried, she couldn't fathom what exactly it might be.

In that moment, doubts about Ana-sensei began to surface in Raiden Mei's mind—doubts that could potentially upend everything she believed.

Reflecting on Ana-sensei's actions throughout their time together, it seemed as if she had been orchestrating a plan, much like Elysia did, positioning everyone according to her scheme.

This realization left Raiden Mei momentarily breathless.

But swiftly regaining her composure, she acknowledged that her anxiety had clouded her judgment. She took a moment to gather her thoughts.

"Hmm, Ana-sensei is an outsider, recognized by the Heroic Spirits, and someone who comprehends the secrets of the Garden. There's no reason for her to make Elysia disappear, yet she appears to be aware of everything happening here."

Raiden Mei rubbed her chin and murmured to herself,

"Still, regarding Elysia, I must consult with other Heroic Spirits for confirmation. Their answers might differ from Ana-sensei's."

A thought struck Raiden Mei, which was also the intended outcome guided by Ana, though it would have inevitably occurred regardless.

With this, Raiden Mei approached the other Heroic Spirits earlier than in the original storyline. They were discussing matters at the marketplace within the Eternal Paradise.

Unsurprisingly, their conversation revolved around Elysia's disappearance.

However, not all the Heroic Spirits were present; only half had gathered here. The whereabouts of the others remained unknown, but those assembled could adequately represent everyone.

"Um... excuse me, has anyone seen Elysia?" Facing the Heroic Spirits, Raiden Mei hesitated briefly before deciding to speak up. Her question was met with an eerie silence.

Finally, it was the typically silent man who broke the stillness.

"What do you need from her?"

Raiden Mei briefly explained the situation to everyone present. Naturally, she also shared the details of her conversation with Ana afterward. Although she trusted Ana completely, she felt it was crucial to inform the other Heroic Spirits about matters concerning Elysia.

However, upon sharing this information, the Heroic Spirits grew even more silent.

"Hmph, just as I suspected. Her visits to the Elysian Realm must be suspicious."

Unsurprisingly, these words came from Mobius. Yet, none of the others took much heed of her suspicions, and Raiden Mei understood their indifference well.

"I trust her."

It was Aponia who spoke first, followed by Su, expressing his agreement as well.

As for Kevin, although he remained silent, his thoughts were clear without needing words. And Eden's ever-present smile suggested that she never harbored any doubts from the start.

From Raiden Mei's perspective, these subtle expressions and remarks weren't immediately evident. Even if they had been more apparent, deciphering the true intentions of the Heroic Spirits would still have proven challenging for her.

It could only be attributed to...an insufficient understanding of the Heroic Spirits and lack of experience.

After some discussion and exchange of ideas, the Heroic Spirits ultimately presented their proposed solutions. As the administrator of the Elysian Realm, Aponia had numerous capabilities at her disposal, while Su also possessed his own methods to aid in finding Elysia.

This process would require Raiden Mei's assistance; however, truthfully, even without her involvement, it wouldn't have significantly impacted the outcome. Nevertheless, since she was already part of the situation, there was nothing more to say.

Meanwhile, deep within the Eternal Paradise...

Ana sat alone on a swing, leisurely rocking back and forth as if carefree. Indeed, everything seemed normal until—someone engulfed in raging flames appeared.

"To think you managed to find me, truly remarkable." Ana stopped swinging, gazing at the approaching figure with a faint smile.

"Hmph."

Kalpas let out a cold snort. Yes, the one who emerged was none other than Kalpas himself.

"Your intuition is genuinely terrifying, Kalpas. In terms of instinct alone, you far surpass others."

"I didn't come here to listen to your flattery."

"Oh? Then what for? Seeking answers and venting your anger?" Ana maintained her casual tone, seemingly unconcerned.

Remarkably, despite her provocations, Kalpas remained composed, showing no hint of anger. He stood silently; although masked, Ana could sense his gaze burning intensely.

Who would have thought that at this critical moment, it was Kalpas who made the most accurate choice first? Kalpas... turned out to be remarkably clear-headed and perceptive, even managing to find her—the one truly immune from consequences.

His visit aimed solely for validation.

"Kalpas, to those yet unborn, your Almacyt stands as protection," Ana sighed softly, speaking slowly.

"Do not hesitate to pursue what you believe is right. As for the rest, leave it to her and me."

"She supports both of you, while I—bear responsibility for everything here." Kalpas snorted coldly, seeming somewhat skeptical.

Kalpas, however, said nothing and simply departed. Watching his retreating figure, Ana shook her head with a faint smile.

Undeniably, Kalpas... truly was a very endearing person, befitting his title as one of the Heroic Spirits.

"But honestly, this Werewolf in Paradise charade can only deceive those unaware of the truth and that Dumb Herrscher."

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With these words, Ana sighed once more.

The bond among the Thirteen Fallen Heroes was never so fragile that mere betrayal would shatter it. Anyone who genuinely understood the essence of the Fallen Heroes would not believe in such defection.

Even Mobius merely sought to leave the Elysian Realm and achieve her own Infinite; she never considered harming any other Heroic Spirits. It was purely her individual plan and action.

"Ah well, only through such a dramatic performance can the tales of the Heroic Spirits gain better recognition and resonance... However... I wonder how many points Eden would give this play?"

As Ana whispered these thoughts, another figure slowly emerged from the shadows, her form emanating a chilling gleam—the reflection of a sharp blade.

However, she chose not to draw her sword but gently pushed it back into its scabbard.

Unquestionably, this person was none other than Sakura.

Originally, Sakura would not have appeared here, but her presence now was undoubtedly due to Ana's orchestration.

At present, within the Elysian Realm, a chessboard had been set up. The players engaged in this strategic game were on opposing sides: one represented by black pieces, symbolizing a character who simply wants to survive, while the other side comprised Heroic Spirits.

What about Ana? Well, Ana possesses an omniscient perspective and holds the power to overturn the entire board instantly. However, she refrains from intervening because she is waiting for the opportune moment.

Naturally, before that moment arrives, she subtly stirs events behind the scenes or even enters the fray herself as a crucial piece.

Sakura's appearance here signifies a refined move on the chessboard. Although, she can only be considered as a side piece, despite being a focal point of conflict in the first phase.

Undeniably, any rumors and doubts surrounding Sakura would dissipate once she steps onto the scene. In other words, with this strategic move, the Heroic Spirits have already secured victory.

Now, they're merely stalling for time, diverting attention to set up their next play. As long as Sakura remains hidden, that cunning individual won't advance recklessly.

As someone solely focused on survival, caution is his primary principle, leading him to tread carefully at every step.

There's nothing inherently wrong with the path of caution, but even then, seizing opportunities is crucial.

However, it seems evident that this young fellow lacks the ability to grasp such chances.

For Ana, having some alone time with Sakura presents a rare opportunity, although Sakura's previous display did instill a slight fear in her.

Nevertheless, there were certain questions Ana had been genuinely curious about.

"Um, Sakura, may I ask you a few things?"

"Yes."

"Have you ever thought about finding a partner... Hmm, what do you think of Kalpas? Come to think of it, he always seemed quite fond of you."

A momentary silence ensued before Sakura replied, "I'm sorry, but those thoughts never crossed my mind. To me, Kalpas is just a comrade, nothing more."

"Then, regarding your future with Rin in the past, didn't you have any plans?"

With the burden of mentor-disciple formality now lifted, Ana's inquiries became more casual.

"...Silence fell again.

While Ana and Sakura engaged in casual conversation, on the other side, Raiden Mei was tirelessly rushing around, yet her efforts yielded unsatisfactory results.

Naturally, this outcome was well within Ana's expectations.

After all, Raiden Mei is merely an outsider. In this game called "Shattered Ice of the Garden" or perhaps "Werewolf in Paradise," she only knows one rule, with everything else remaining a mystery to her.

She is entirely at the mercy of the Heroic Spirits' guidance. If this truly were a game, Raiden Mei would have virtually no enjoyable gameplay experience.

Assuming the Heroic Spirits operated at the first level, in reality, they functioned on an entirely different scale altogether.

Currently, Raiden Mei finds herself in such a predicament. After strenuously searching without finding any leads, she soon encounters the berserk Kalpas.

Then, Su reveals crucial information to her: There are an unknown number of traitors among the Heroic Spirits, making it extremely dangerous ahead; thus, it's imperative to stick together.