Honkai Star Rail: I Can Hear Their Secrets

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Feeling parched from anticipation, Su Jinyan couldn't resist taking several sips of tea. He had no intention of deceiving Silver Wolf; indeed, he did possess the concept of an explosively popular card battle game in his mind.

That card game was none other than the highly acclaimed—Turmoil of the Three Kingdoms.

However, Turmoil of the Three Kingdoms' immense popularity was built upon the foundation of the classic novel, Romance of the Three Kingdoms. Only by developing a card game based on this immensely famous IP could it capture its unique charm.

Without any prior groundwork, simply introducing Turmoil of the Three Kingdoms would undoubtedly lead to failure.

Silver Wolf shifted her snow-white legs uncomfortably and muttered, "What are you looking at?"

Su Jinyan replied honestly, "Your legs."

Silver Wolf pursed her pink lips, turned away from Su Jinyan, and adjusted her position to lie sideways.

"Stop staring, there's something off about your gaze—it feels a bit unsettling."

Su Jinyan remained silent.

Your intuition is spot-on.

His eyes then drifted towards her firm buttocks encased in ultra-short hot pants.

Silver Wolf tilted her head thoughtfully for a moment, her fingertip tracing lightly through the air.

Whack!

An ultra-high-resolution cube suddenly smacked Su Jinyan right on the head.

Instantly, Su Jinyan found himself focusing on Silver Wolf's delicate and snow-white feet.

Every part of such a beautiful girl like Silver Wolf seemed precious indeed.

Unable to resist curling her pristine white toes, Silver Wolf grew increasingly uneasy while gaming and ended up dying several times.

Su Jinyan gently suggested, "Why don't you put down the game for now? Would you be interested in hearing me tell a story?"

Without pausing her gameplay, Silver Wolf replied, "Go ahead and start. If it piques my interest, I'll stop to listen."

Su Jinyan sat next to her and swiftly snatched away her handheld console.

Caught off guard, Silver Wolf looked at him with confusion, feeling disoriented.

With a serious expression, Su Jinyan said, "We're friends, and your current behavior shows disrespect towards a friend."

"If you want to hear my story, you must set aside that console."

"Or alternatively, you could shoot me, then continue playing your game."

Taken aback, Silver Wolf seemed intimidated by Su Jinyan's assertiveness. Seeing his earnestness, she couldn't help but whisper softly, "Is that so?"

"I haven't experienced these things before... uh, not what you might think..."

"What I mean is, of course, I understand how friends should interact."

"Go ahead, I'll listen attentively to your story." Su Jinyan's smile remained gentle. "Be good; this is how friends should interact."

Feeling slightly awkward, Silver Wolf turned her face away unnaturally before quickly regaining her composure.

"Hmph, newbie, what nonsense are you spouting?"

"Don't forget our agreement—you lost to me, so you have to call me 'Daddy' now."

"We're not just friends here, remember? I'm your daddy."

Online, she was a legendary gamer, feared by countless as the Cosmic Hacker, with numerous aliases and a history of crossing lines on forums.

However, among all the father-son role-playing games she had played, Su Jinyan was the only one who truly kept his promise.

Most other netizens, upon discovering she was Punklorde's Silver Wolf, would immediately apologize, delete her from their friend list, flee, and even disconnect their internet.

She always had few friends, especially online, where she practically lacked any companions.

Su Jinyan's actions inadvertently created a misconception for Silver Wolf: Hmm, this guy seems decent—could be a good pal.

Su Jinyan was speechless.

He never anticipated that engaging in forum debates with goofy netizens and agreeing to a father-son arcade game scenario would lead him to bizarrely accept being called "Daddy" by mistake.

Considering this "dad" wasn't bad-looking, Su Jinyan gritted his teeth and went along with it.

Don't be fooled by the current situation where he's forced to call Silver Wolf "Daddy."

Who knows who might end up calling whom "dad" in the future.

"Hmm, next, I'll narrate the first chapter of 'Romance of the Three Kingdoms.'"

"Dad, listen carefully now, and don't you dare doze off."

"Otherwise, your son's halberd will be quite displeased."

Silver Wolf pursed her lips, feeling a hint of laughter bubbling within. However, she quickly realized that laughing aloud here might not be entirely appropriate. It could be seen as disrespectful... to her friend... well, to her son, perhaps?

While Su Jinyan wasn't looking, Silver Wolf turned away, her lips involuntarily curving upwards into an adorable smile.

Su Jinyan gently stroked Silver Wolf's hair and guided her face back towards him. "Don't fidget; pay attention while I tell the story."

With this, Silver Wolf sat upright, her beautiful eyes fixed intently on him without blinking.

"In the peach garden feast, three heroes pledge their brotherhood, and with the defeat of Yellow Turban rebels, heroes claim their first victory."

"It is said—like the mighty Yangtze River flowing eastward, its surging waves sweep heroes past."

"Right or wrong, success or failure—all fade in an instant's cast. The green hills remain unchanged, witnessing sunsets' fiery blast."

"On riverside rocks, white-haired fishermen gaze at autumn moons and spring breeze's play, joyously reuniting over a pot of wine. Through ancient times, countless events pass, all but tales for laughter's sway."

Su Jinyan's captivating voice paced the narrative smoothly, making it easy for listeners to become immersed in the tale.

Soon, he reached the thrilling part of the first chapter:

After Liu Bei, Guan Yu, and Zhang Fei rescued Dong Zhuo and returned to their camp, Dong Zhuo asked about their current positions. Upon learning they held no rank, he became arrogant and dismissive towards them.

"Enraged, Zhang Fei exclaimed, 'We risked our lives in battle to save this ingrate, yet he treats us with such disdain! If we don't kill him, my anger will never subside!'"

Silver Wolf nodded approvingly.

Smack!

Su Jinyan slapped the table dramatically and declaimed loudly, "Indeed, human nature's fickleness holds true from ancient times till now; who values heroes born without rank?"

"Oh for someone bold like Yi De, to purge all faithless hearts worldwide!"

"And as for Dong Zhuo's fate, stay tuned for the next chapter."

Silver Wolf blinked her beautiful eyes, completely captivated. "What happens next?"

"That's where it ends," Su Jinyan replied.

Silver Wolf looked puzzled. Just when it was getting interesting, you end it? So soon?

Su Jinyan was quite pleased with Silver Wolf's reaction. Initially, he had worried that she might not find the story engaging.

On the surface, "Romance of the Three Kingdoms" appears to be solely about the power struggles and military conflicts among various factions at the end of the Eastern Han Dynasty, leading up to the political dynamics between Wei, Shu, and Wu. However, beneath its narrative lies a reflection of the social conflicts and contradictions during the era of the Three Kingdoms.

It seemed that as long as a story is compelling and captivating, regardless of the time period, people would appreciate it.

Su Jinyan asked, "Darling, do you want to hear more?"

Silver Wolf gently nodded. "I'd like to hear more."

Su Jinyan smiled. "The story only gets more captivating as it unfolds. Let's start by promoting 'Romance of the Three Kingdoms' on Xianzhou Luofu, having storytellers narrate this tale."

"Once it gains popularity and buzz, we can then advertise it online."

"And while striking while the iron is hot, let's develop a card-based battle game inspired by the heroes of 'Romance of the Three Kingdoms.'"

"In this game, players would assume roles based on their identity, influence, or faction - playing as loyal ministers, lords, traitors, or rebels."

"Using cards as tools, they must form alliances and employ strategies round after round to achieve ultimate victory."

"Do you think there's potential for success?"

A hint of happiness flickered in Silver Wolf's eyes. "I'm very pleased because you haven't deceived me."

Su Jinyan said earnestly, "We're friends, and my principle is never to deceive friends."

"So, friend," he continued, "considering all my efforts, could I perhaps get a chance to touch your leg?"

Silver Wolf cautiously withdrew his beautiful legs. "No touching for you."

Su Jinyan, undeterred, replied seriously, "You can touch mine too, if you want."

Silver Wolf raised an eyebrow.

Sighing, Su Jinyan said, "Feeling a bit hurt here. Aren't we friends?"

Silver Wolf picked up his handheld console again, restarted the game, and casually swung his snow-white legs.

"Between friends, who just randomly touches each other's legs?"

"Don't think I'm clueless; friends shouldn't engage in such things." Feeling somewhat dejected, Su Jinyan asked, "What about between father and son?"

Shock flickered across Silver Wolf's beautiful eyes. "Isn't that even more inappropriate?"

Su Jinyan's eyes shifted, and he extended a finger, suggesting, "Oh, right, do you like bubble tea? How about I make you a cup—Jinyan's special taro bubble milk tea. Give it a taste."

Silver Wolf remained fully absorbed in her game. "Sure, but no bubbles—I absolutely hate them."

A moment later, Su Jinyan returned with a cup of Stelle taro bubble milk tea.

"Here, try my craftsmanship—the star taro bubble milk tea, without any bubbles, just filled with taro pieces."

"Thank you, but please set it aside for now. I don't have time to drink it at the moment." Silver Wolf frowned, rapidly pressing buttons and manipulating the joystick on her handheld console.

The gameplay seemed intensely challenging; perhaps she was attempting a high-difficulty level?

With this thought, Su Jinyan sat down next to Silver Wolf. After glancing at the screen, he barely managed to suppress his surprise.

She was playing an exceptionally old pixelated game—Pac-Man.

Pac-Man is typically quite simple, so how did she end up trapped in a corner by four slimes already on the second level?

"Why don't you keep playing while I insert a straw and feed you?" Su Jinyan suggested.

Silver Wolf put down the handheld console, looking serious. "It's all your fault."

Su Jinyan blinked, puzzled.

Silver Wolf pursed her lips, gesturing him to look at the game screen.

"The last life, thanks to your interruption, I got bitten by a ghost and died."

Su Jinyan looked defeated, questioning, "Isn't this game supposed to be easy with just basic skills?"

Silver Wolf showed no hint of embarrassment, confidently responding, "That's true, for me it indeed is that simple."

"However, today I wanted to try something different."

"I aimed to see if I could escape the ghosts' encirclement without collecting any beans."

Su Jinyan observed that despite Silver Wolf's tough talk, they were incredibly soft at heart.

Even if the world were to crumble and all living things perish, Silver Wolf would undoubtedly hold on—just long enough to sneer, "Hmph, is that all you've got?"

Unfortunately, Silver Wolf couldn't read minds and remained unaware of Su Jinyan's thoughts.

Otherwise, they would surely have given him a stern lesson, teaching him about the depths of paternal love.

"Oh right, when you get a chance, write down 'Romance of the Three Kingdoms' first and send it to my email."

"As for me, I'll go speak with some storytellers, offering them an irresistible payment, so they can effectively spread the tale."

Silver Wolf blew a bubble, then stood up and picked up her milk tea. "Thanks for the drink."

Su Jinyan asked, "Leaving already?"

Silver Wolf nodded. "Yes, I have other matters to attend to tonight. I just came by specifically to see you."

"But if you could join me in playing games, I might find some time after all."

"Hmm, let's skip the gaming; I'm quite busy too," Su Jinyan replied with a mischievous look. "But how about a farewell kiss on the cheek? That should be acceptable between friends, right?"

"A kiss on the cheek is indeed a customary gesture among friends, as you well know."

The practice of exchanging kisses on the cheek was common between close acquaintances across many planets, something Silver Wolf was aware of.

The corners of Silver Wolf's lips curved slightly upward. "Sure, but let's save that for when you finally beat me at a game."

"Goodbye, little rookie from the Divination Commission."

Just before she left, Su Jinyan managed to ask, "Wait, will there be future opportunities for me to seek your assistance?"

"To be honest, as you've seen, the situation in Xianzhou Luofu is dire."

"We're facing clear opposition from the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus and their allies, whom they've enlisted."

"I surmise that this ally's strength is likely comparable to that of Sanctus Medicus."

"To protect those I care about, my only choice was to feign joining the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus."

"Once I uncover the full truth, I will do everything in my power to stop them."

"With your assistance, I believe it would become considerably easier."

The Silver Wolf put on his goggles, gently stroking Su Jinyan's canine head with a warm smile playing at his lips.

"...Are you really taking me as your son now?" Su Jinyan asked hesitantly.

Silver Wolf pursed his lips and pinched Su Jinyan's cheek affectionately. "Hmm, how should I say? As long as it doesn't interfere with Elio's script, I'm not opposed to helping you."

"In recognition of your diligent efforts, let me share some good news with you."

"In the future Elio foresaw, there is indeed a place for you."

Su Jinyan couldn't help but chuckle at the Silver Wolf's words. "Thanks for the auspicious sentiment; it truly is the most uplifting news I've heard recently."

Silver Wolf looked puzzled. "What, don't you believe it?"

"Elio's visions of the future have never been wrong."

[Ding~]

[Did you know? "Destiny's Slave" Elio is the leader of the Stellaron Hunters.]

[He is a madman who claims to see fate, relentlessly pursuing the most dangerous entities in the universe.]

[Elio strives to bring about the best possible "future," continuously working towards this goal.]

[Now, you have had the fortunate opportunity to interact with a member of the Stellaron Hunters-Silver Wolf, and gained her goodwill.]

[Try engaging with more Stellaron Hunters; even those who were once part of their ranks can provide assistance.]

Thoughtfully, Su Jinyan whispered, "Sweetheart, could you reveal a bit more information?"

Silver Wolf's expression turned serious. "No, Elio has said that the possibilities for the future are infinite. Knowing the truth at the wrong time could render long-standing efforts futile."

Su Jinyan wrapped his arms around Silver Wolf's fragrant and delicate frame, giving her a tight embrace.

"Thank you, dear friend, I feel much better now."

"Would you like a farewell wet kiss between friends?"

Silver Wolf looked puzzled.

Bang!

A gunshot echoed from within the private booth at the tavern.

Su Jinyan collapsed to the ground with pixelated blood streaming from his head.

Silver Wolf extended her thumb, giving him a cool thumbs-up. "Hmph, I forgot to mention, I don't drink milk tea."

The End

In a room filled with a youthful girlish ambiance, neon lights flickered intertwiningly everywhere.

Silver Wolf returned to her space, resting her chin on one hand as she sat deep in thought before her computer desk.

She pondered a serious question:

"Why is there so much taro added to this taro bubble milk tea?"

A mysterious-looking mature woman entered through the door, asking, "Darling, what are you up to?"

The woman before Silver Wolf had amethyst hair and eyes, possessing not only striking beauty but also exuding a unique enigmatic aura. She wore a black cloak-like jacket draped over her shoulders, adorned with a silver butterfly brooch at the collar, adding a touch of elegance to her attire.

On top of her head, sunglasses with purple-tinted lenses emitted a mystic and profound glow, reminiscent of stars blooming in the night sky. The color seemed impenetrable, concealing the secrets hidden within her depths.

Delicate purplish-red lace trimmed the cuffs, resembling blossoms in springtime.

Underneath, she donned a pristine white blouse that accentuated her radiant complexion.

Her lower body was clad in snug black leggings, highlighting her slender and alluring curves.

To the left, a refined silk scarf was tied, enhancing the overall ensemble's appeal.

Purple long socks connected to the leggings by crossed straps, showcasing a distinctive design that emphasized her attention to detail.

She was the notorious Stellaron Hunter, Kafka, born on Tianyi-5 and later recruited by Elio.

Silver Wolf vigorously stirred her Star Taro Milk Tea, then took a forceful sip. "Drinking Star Taro, Star Taro, Star Taro Tea."

"And you, Kafka, what brings you here so late?"

Kafka gently snapped her fingers, instantly softening the room's lighting and stopping its flickering patterns.

"Elio just briefed me on our upcoming mission; you won't be participating this time."

"In a few days, I'll approach the Astral Express Crew to alter their route."

With her mouth full of Star Taro, Silver Wolf mumbled indistinctly, "Oh, good luck with that."

Unable to suppress a smile, Kafka asked, "Is it really that delicious?"

Silver Wolf picked up the milk tea, proudly waving it before Kafka. "Look, my friend made it specially for me."

A mischievous grin played across Kafka's lips as she draped an arm around Silver Wolf's shoulders. Catching her off guard, Kafka swiftly took a sip... specifically targeting the star taro pearls inside.

"Not bad," Kafka commented, "but why is there so much star taro in it?"

Silver Wolf protested unhappily, "Kafka, my friend made this just for me!"

Kafka smiled faintly, her eyes gleaming deeply. "Since you enjoy it so much..."

"Why don't we invite your friend over for a visit when we have some free time?"

After bidding farewell to Silver Wolf, Su Jinyan returned to the Divination Commission.

To rapidly enhance his strength, the Simulated Universe remained crucial, so he planned to continue exploring it tonight.

However, venturing into the Simulated Universe required ensuring absolute safety. Otherwise, if someone were to take advantage and launch a surprise attack, it could be quite disastrous.

Despite the late hour, Fu Xuan was still at the Divination Commission's Conclave Hall, working overtime on official duties.

Is there any place safer than the Divination Commission in this world? If pressed for an answer, Su Jinyan believed it would be within Fu Xuan's warm embrace.

"So, you want to sleep by my side," Fu Xuan remarked. "Just because you feel secure around this venerable one?"

Unable to resist, Fu Xuan stood on tiptoe to touch Su Jinyan's forehead. "No fever, I see?"

Feeling caught between laughter and tears, Su Jinyan pleaded, "My dear Lady Fu Xuan, I'm completely serious."

Fu Xuan looked at him with confusion. "Even if you inadvertently disrupted the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus' plans, there's no need to be so anxious, is there? Could those few insignificant pawns even get close to harming you? You're making yourself sound far too helpless."

Su Jinyan improvised hastily, "Of course not, but I sleep very deeply. Once asleep, nobody can wake me up. Please, Lady Fu Xuan, only you can provide me with a sense of security."

Fu Xuan replied mildly, "Enough, this venerable one understands. Rest assured and sleep well; I will ensure your safety."

"Lady Fu Xuan," Su Jinyan asked, "do you have any method that can instantly induce sleep?"

Fu Xuan gently shook her head. "This venerable one does not possess such a technique. If you're having trouble sleeping, seek medication from the Dragon Girl."

Su Jinyan blurted out hastily, "If possible, I'd love to drift off in Lady Fu Xuan's warm and firm embrace—pffft—"

And just like that, he promptly entered dreamland.

[Simulated Universe, initiating!]

[The courageous Fool gradually awakens, returning once more to that familiar place.]

[Fool, let me remind you of a cruel truth.]

[Before you now lies the last relatively intact body available.]