The next day.
Finally, Kunikuzushi broke her earlier promise of "not spending the night at Lucas's place."
As everyone knows, once a promise is broken, the rest of one's principles no longer seem as important.
For Kunikuzushi, it was an unbearably long night.
For the first time in her life, she paid the price for her own reckless words.
Fortunately, thanks to years of practicing her family's swordsmanship and rigorous martial training, Kunikuzushi's body was far more flexible than Lucas had expected. This also allowed many of the tools at hand to serve their intended purposes.
Of course, with the "effort" of both parties, the video was successfully shot.
Though Lucas had participated and even taken the first sip of red wine, his face never appeared in the footage from start to finish—a necessary precaution for his own safety.
"I… I did it…"
A weak-looking Kunikuzushi wore a smug expression. "Wasn't I… better than Kamisato Ayaka?"
"I admit, right now, you are indeed stronger," Lucas, for once, showed her a rare gentleness. He kissed the girl's forehead with a faint smile and said, "Now, it's time for revenge."
Not just Kunikuzushi's revenge—but Lucas's as well.
After preparing everything, Lucas dialed Raiden Ei's private number.
Sure enough, the call connected after a few rings, and Raiden Ei's voice came through. However, she sounded somewhat… drained.
It seemed that Kunikuzushi's "running away from home" yesterday had affected her more than she let on.
"This number…" Raiden Ei sounded puzzled. "You're… Kunikuzushi's homeroom teacher?"
"You still remember me? I'm truly honored." This time, Lucas didn't disguise his voice. Instead, he spoke naturally, "Raiden… senpai."
Dead silence filled the other end of the line. After a long pause, Raiden Ei tentatively asked, "Is… is that you?"
"It's me," Lucas replied, already aware that she had recognized him. "Long time no see."
"Why did you disguise yourself as Kunikuzushi's homeroom teacher?" Raiden Ei's voice tightened. "What exactly are you planning?"
"How could you say that?" Lucas chuckled. "I just happened to become Kunikuzushi's homeroom teacher. And I've been… very good to her."
He deliberately emphasized the word "good," the underlying threat unmistakable.
"So… she's with you now?" Raiden Ei gritted her teeth. "If you dare do anything to her, I'll—"
"Still acting like you can control everything with your background and power, just like back in university?" Lucas's voice suddenly turned icy. "Right now, you'd better listen to me."
With that, he turned on the camera, which happened to be at the most intense part of the video. A sharp cry from Kunikuzushi instantly pierced through the speakers.
Raiden Ei suppressed her fury. "How… how much money do you want?"
"Money? Sorry, I'm not interested in that," Lucas said flatly. "As long as you obey me, I guarantee your daughter will be unharmed."
"What do you want me to do?" Raiden Ei asked urgently.
"First, meet me in person," Lucas said. "I want to talk face-to-face."
"Fine," Raiden Ei agreed. "You can come to—"
"Do you think I'm stupid? Going to your territory would be like walking into the lion's den." Lucas smirked. "How about this? I know a nice little bar. Let's meet there."
"A bar?" Raiden Ei scoffed. "I never go to such filthy places."
"Do you really think you're in a position to make demands now?" Lucas sneered. "Besides, are you really that clean yourself?"
"You—!" Raiden Ei's voice trembled with anger, but for Kunikuzushi's sake, she suppressed it. "Fine. Tell me the time and place."
"I'll send it to you shortly," Lucas said coolly. "Also, don't try anything stupid. As long as you behave tonight, I promise your daughter won't be harmed…"
"If anything happens to her," Raiden Ei threatened, "believe me, I'll make you regret being born into this world. Click."
Raiden Ei hung up, and a self-deprecating smile crossed Lucas's face. "Believe me," he murmured, "sometimes, I wish I'd never been born into this world either."
————
Night fell.
Naganohara Bar.
Located in Inazuma City's Hanamizaka district, this bar wasn't large but had a long history.
Rumor had it that the place used to be a fireworks shop, but due to urban planning issues and declining sales, it had been converted into a bar.
As for why a fireworks shop would pivot to running a bar, few knew the real reason.
Though Lucas wasn't a regular here, he had frequented plenty of bars and nightclubs for the sake of revenge. By now, he was an old hand at blending in—no one would suspect his true profession.
Time ticked by, but Lucas remained unfazed, leisurely sipping a drink as he waited.
Suddenly, the bar's noisy chatter quieted, and all eyes turned toward the entrance.
She's here.
Lucas smirked and glanced over.
Sure enough, a violet-haired beauty stood at the door, frowning slightly as she scanned the room.
Her beauty seemed to glow even in the dim lighting, though her impeccably tailored kimono clashed starkly with the bar's atmosphere.
Honestly, the last person who could pull off a kimono with such presence was the yakuza boss lady from Kill Bill.
At the very least, the aura of lethality they exuded was identical.
Normally, a woman of her caliber in a bar would attract countless catcalls and advances. But under the overwhelming pressure of her presence, no one dared so much as breathe too loudly.
Yes—this was Raiden Ei.
Despite the years apart, she looked almost unchanged from her university days. Her eyes locked onto Lucas immediately, and without a word, she strode straight to his table and said coldly, "As agreed, I'm here."
"What a long-awaited reunion," Lucas spread his arms with a grin. "I've missed you… every single day."
Raiden Ei hesitated at his gesture. Given her status, embracing someone in a place like this was… complicated.
"Don't make this awkward…" Lucas lowered his voice. "Unless you want your daughter to—"
Using Kunikuzushi to threaten me again…
Raiden Ei shot him a glare but bit her lip and reluctantly opened her arms, allowing Lucas to pull her into a full embrace.
The sight left the surrounding patrons stunned.
Just what kind of man could tame a woman with such an intimidating presence?
Naturally, Lucas didn't keep his hands to himself, giving her a firm squeeze. Raiden Ei stiffened, torn between shock and humiliation, but she clenched her fists, refusing to react.
Once Kunikuzushi was safe, she would settle every last score with Lucas.
"Let's go. It's too noisy here." Lucas released her with a smirk. "I'll take you somewhere quieter to talk."
Raiden Ei was all too eager to leave. The raucous atmosphere of bars was her least favorite.
Soon, the two entered a VIP room—spacious enough for over a dozen people, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering a full view of the main hall.
"I spent quite a bit to rent this place," Lucas said as he lounged on the sofa. "Though for you, this must be pocket change."
"If you like places like this, I'll buy you ten bigger ones," Raiden Ei said flatly. "Just return Kunikuzushi to me."
"No need to rush." Lucas patted the seat beside him. "Come, sit. Let's talk properly."
Though anxious, Raiden Ei had no choice but to comply. She sat stiffly beside him and said, "I know I… did some things to you at school. If you want revenge, take it out on me. My daughter has nothing to do with this."
"Nothing to do with it?" Lucas scoffed. "Tell me, what kind of child do you think your daughter is?"
"Kunikuzushi?" Raiden Ei hesitated. "She's… mischievous, but she's a good girl."
"A good girl?" Lucas's smile turned mocking. "Are you saying that Kunikuzushi, who bullies others at school, is just 'a little mischievous'?"
"Bullying? No, that's impossible!" Raiden Ei insisted. "At most, it's just some childish pranks between students. You can't call that 'bullying.'"
Admittedly, Raiden Ei and Kunikuzushi were the perfect "problem child and enabling parent" duo—one causing trouble without a care, the other turning a blind eye.
To Raiden Ei, anything that could be resolved with money was hardly worth worrying about.
"Then let me show you something." Lucas produced a remote and pressed a button. With a beep, the room's massive projector flickered to life, displaying footage.
The video appeared to be from a school classroom's security camera, showing an empty room after hours. Everything seemed normal.
"This is… Kunikuzushi's school?" Raiden Ei frowned. "Why are you showing me this?"
"You'll see soon enough," Lucas said calmly.
Sure enough, less than a minute later, a furtive figure crept up to another student's desk, opened the bag inside, and stuffed a live mouse into it.
The "culprit" turned around, revealing her face—Kunikuzushi.
Raiden Ei's eyes widened slightly, but she remained composed. "It's just… a slightly mean prank."
"It doesn't end there." Lucas shifted into a more comfortable position. "Your daughter is very talented."
He proceeded to play more videos of Kunikuzushi bullying Kamisato Ayaka, each incident more severe than the last.
Of course, these weren't the videos from last night—showing those to Raiden Ei would only backfire on him.
Over the past two years, Lucas had secretly installed surveillance throughout the school, ensuring nothing escaped his notice. These clips were his carefully collected "evidence" of Kunikuzushi's misdeeds.
Unsurprisingly, Raiden Ei's expression darkened with each passing second.
"Enough!" she finally snapped. "I admit, she… may have gone too far. But in the end, these are just childish antics. What you're doing—holding her captive—is far worse."
"I never imprisoned her," Lucas shrugged with a smile. "She's perfectly fine right now, completely unharmed. But... what if these uncensored videos were 'accidentally' leaked and seen by more people?"
"No!" Raiden Ei immediately protested. "You—you'll ruin her!"
Clearly, Raiden Ei wasn't foolish. She understood perfectly well how terrifying the power of "public opinion" could be. If these videos of Raiden Kunikuzushi bullying her classmates were spread, her daughter would overnight become the most notorious bully in the eyes of thousands.
Raiden Kunikuzushi might not suffer physical harm, but the immense psychological pressure would be unbearable for a child.
This wasn't something money and power could easily suppress.
"These videos have already been backed up. If I don't perform a specific operation within a set time, they'll be disseminated instantly," Lucas said with a smile. "Ms. Raiden Ei, you wouldn't want Kunikuzushi's life to be ruined or for her to be bullied at school, would you?"
"Hmph, do you think I'd yield so easily?" Raiden Ei sneered. "My tech department can quickly erase any videos you release. Besides, you should know better than anyone—the internet has no memory."
"So, do you want to gamble on it?" Lucas showed no trace of nervousness, still smiling. "With Raiden Kunikuzushi's life as the stake?"
"Let's be clear—Kunikuzushi isn't my biological daughter," Raiden Ei glared fiercely at Lucas. "Do you really think you can threaten me with her?"
"Of course I know that," Lucas's face twisted into a mocking smile. "How pitiful. If your sister's spirit in heaven saw her daughter hiding at home every day from cyberbullying, even suffering a mental breakdown... I wonder how she'd feel?"
"Enough. You win..." Raiden Ei sighed, seemingly reminded of her sister. "Name your terms. What will it take for you to delete those videos? A blank check? Or some impossible wish?"
"What I want..." Lucas stroked his chin. "...can only be given by you."
"Stop beating around the bush!" Raiden Ei snapped impatiently. "Out with it."
"It's..." Lucas raised a finger, pointing directly at Raiden Ei. "...you."
"Me?" Raiden Ei froze momentarily before flushing slightly. "That joke isn't funny. A woman's body is no different from another's. If you really want one, I can find you countless high-quality women—so many that you'd wake up every morning with a different one by your side for the rest of your life."
"Admittedly, that's a very tempting offer," Lucas remained unmoved. "But I'm not here for something as base as physical gratification. Starting now, if you obey me completely for the next twenty-four hours, I'll agree to delete all those videos."
Raiden Ei hesitated. "I..."
"Seems your resolve isn't strong enough," Lucas chuckled. "How about this—I'll pick one video to release and see how it goes. Should I choose the one where Kunikuzushi corners a classmate in the restroom? Or the one where she stuffs nails into someone's shoe locker..."
"Stop!"
In the end, her feelings for her sister and Kunikuzushi forced Raiden Ei to relent. Clenching her teeth, she spat out, "I... I agree."
Secretly, she vowed to endure whatever humiliation came her way. Once this was over, she'd make Lucas pay dearly.
"First, hand over what you're hiding," Lucas gestured at Raiden Ei.
Frowning, Raiden Ei retrieved a phone from her bosom and handed it to him. Without hesitation, Lucas smashed it violently against the ground and stomped on it, reducing the elegant device to scattered components.
"Now, no one will disturb us," Lucas grinned like a classic villain. "You know, this could've been resolved easily if you'd just done one thing. Yet not only did you fail to do it—you didn't even consider it."
"What thing?" Raiden Ei asked, surprised.
"Apologize to me. For everything you did to me back then," Lucas said coldly. "But you didn't. That proves you've never felt an ounce of remorse for your bullying."
"That wasn't bullying..." Raiden Ei argued.
"Whether it constitutes bullying isn't for the bully to decide—it's for the victim," Lucas waved his hand dismissively. "The first thing I order you to do is apologize to me."
For someone like Raiden Ei, the words "regret" and "apology" might as well not exist in her dictionary. But under duress, she forced out through gritted teeth, "I... I'm sorry."
"Is this how your subordinates apologize when they mess up at your company?" Lucas smirked. "Kneel. Apologize properly. Three times."
Never in her life had Raiden Ei endured such humiliation, yet she had no choice. She walked obediently to Lucas, straightened her skirt, and knelt gracefully before him. After a moment's hesitation, she bowed her head. "I'm sorry."
"Are you stupid?" Lucas pressed relentlessly. "Has no one ever taught you that when apologizing, you must show your (.)(.)?"
"What kind of absurd notion is that?!" Raiden Ei snapped. "I've never heard of such 'common sense'!"
"From now on, my words are common sense," Lucas toyed with his phone leisurely. "Ah, if I don't receive a proper apology, I might just... accidentally hit 'send.'"
"I—I understand!"
Once again, Raiden Ei conceded. Her trembling hands moved to her collar.
The majestic "Mount Fuji" unveiled itself before Lucas.
All these years, Lucas had suppressed his emotions to execute his revenge. If there was one woman he'd ever been remotely interested in, it was Raiden Ei.
Yet he couldn't determine whether this was genuine "affection" or merely his instinctual desire to conquer this "peak."
In Raiden Ei's mind, Lucas had never been the lustful type. She assumed his demand was purely to humiliate her.
But she'd underestimated her own allure. Even Lucas—who'd sampled countless "delicacies"—found himself staring dumbfounded at the breathtaking sight before him.
Among all the women he'd experienced, only Shenhe could rival Raiden Ei's magnificence.
Soon, the three apologies concluded. As Raiden Ei moved to cover herself, Lucas stopped her. "Wait."
"You... what else do you want?" Raiden Ei seethed. "Can't I even put my clothes back on?"
"You can dress, but not in your own clothes," Lucas pointed to a package on the table. "Go change into this in the dressing room. Though if you'd rather do it here, I won't object."
Without another word, Raiden Ei took the package and headed to the dressing room. Having already crossed the point of no return, she steeled herself. Her defiant nature thrived under pressure—this adversity only strengthened her resolve to outmaneuver Lucas!
Ten minutes later.
The dressing room door slid open. Raiden Ei had shed her dignified kimono for an outfit she'd describe as "more shameless than the lowest prostitute's garb."
Never in her life had she worn anything so humiliating. The cheap-looking fishnet accessories made her resemble a streetwalker loitering in the slums.
"How does it feel?" Lucas's tone carried mockery.
"It's... utterly disgraceful," Raiden Ei bit her lip hard, staring at the ground. "Especially the feet—exposing so much skin is... indecent."
Indeed, the shoes she wore revealed large portions of her pale feet, the blue veins clearly visible.
Though her focus was... oddly specific.
Compared to her feet, other exposed areas were far more scandalous.
"Now," Lucas pointed to a glass wall nearby. "Go press yourself against that."
"Absolutely not!" Raiden Ei's face flushed crimson. "There are... people below."
"Relax, they're all lost in alcohol and music. No one will look up," Lucas teased. "Even if someone accidentally glances your way, they'll assume it's a hallucination."
In truth, Lucas lied—the glass was one-way, allowing only interior visibility.
This VIP room was frequently used for... unspeakable activities. Basic privacy was a given.
His deception solely aimed to amplify Raiden Ei's shame.
With no choice, Raiden Ei hesitated briefly before taking a deep breath and positioning herself against the glass.
Outside, youths drowned in liquor and dance. True to Lucas's words, none glanced upward.
Suddenly, Lucas's hand appeared behind her, pressing against the glass beside her face.
"You... what are you—" Raiden Ei started to turn.
"Don't look back," Lucas commanded softly. Gathering her hair, he inhaled deeply. "Tell me—when a man stands behind a woman, what do you think he wants?"
"Hmph..." Raiden Ei snorted. "I know what you're after. Get on with it. I'm... ready."
"Seven thousand four hundred," Lucas whispered in her ear. "That's the number of 'punishments' you'll receive."
"Why... such a specific count?" Raiden Ei frowned.
"I told you—this is retribution," Lucas smiled. "Every instance of your bullying is etched in my mind. Isolating me from classmates—500 times. Barring me from the library—700 times... Altogether, 7,400 offenses."
Had Lucas not enumerated them, Raiden Ei might've never realized how extensively she'd tormented him.
Not that she'd admit wrongdoing. "Pathetic, keeping score like a petty accountant. The mental image alone is pitiable."
"I agree. But you know what?" Lucas's laughter turned sinister. "Many like me survive solely on vengeance. Sadly... few get to fulfill their dreams like I have."
"Go ahead," Raiden Ei taunted. "Let me mock your... inadequate weapon."
Though inexperienced, she knew nothing wounded male pride like ridiculing their potency.
Yet Lucas remained unruffled. "A fair point. Hence, I've decided to... enhance it slightly."
Producing a spiked "armor," he grinned.
Raiden Ei's eyes widened at the menacing implement. "Wh-what is that?"
"A 'morning star,'" Lucas smiled. "I did say this was punishment. Did you think it'd be... gentle?"
"W-wait..." For the first time, the ever-dominant Raiden Ei showed panic. "No! Absolutely not! It'll—it'll kill me!"
"Relax, it's equipped with safety features," Lucas chuckled. "Not using them is what's dangerous."
The punishment commenced.
Lucas had chosen this nightclub partly for its noise.
To hide a drop of water, submerge it in the ocean. To mask screams, surround them with louder ones.
Here, even if Raiden Ei shrieked herself hoarse, none would notice.
Initially, she hurled curses. But as the punishment progressed, her protests morphed into pleas before fading entirely, leaving Lucas to dominate unchallenged.
His brutality wasn't born of sadism—for someone as unyielding as Raiden Ei, only such physical and psychological torment could shatter her defenses.
As she teetered on unconsciousness, Lucas suddenly gripped her throat while caressing her forehead, murmuring tenderly:
"Mirror Flower... Water Moon."
...
Raiden Ei's eyes glazed over before her body slumped limply to her knees. Soon, muffled whimpers escaped her lips:
"N-no... stop bullying me..."
"Why won't anyone help?"
"I... hate you all..."
Indeed, Lucas's "Mirror Flower Water Moon" plunged Raiden Ei into visions of being bullied—now forcing her to experience what she'd inflicted.
Naturally, for maximum impact, these illusions were... intensified.
Raiden Ei's reactions confirmed the brutality of her illusory torment.
Deeming the duration sufficient, Lucas snapped his fingers. The trembling, hallucinating Raiden Ei gradually stilled, blinking awake.
Though mere minutes had passed in reality, her nightmare spanned years of suffering.
Cold sweat drenched her forehead—the lingering horror undeniable even after awakening.
"Are you alright?" Lucas feigned concern. "You fainted earlier, so I stopped. Here, drink some water to calm down."
He offered a glass which Raiden Ei accepted unquestioningly, gulping thirstily.
Unbeknownst to her, it contained a truth serum—lowering inhibitions and fostering empathy.
"You know..." she finally murmured after a long silence. "I had... a dream."
"Oh?" Lucas smiled. "You dream too?"
Ignoring his jab, Raiden Ei nodded. "I dreamed... I was the one being bullied."
"How did it feel?" His smile vanished.
"Awful..." She bit her lip. "Looking back, I realize... I might've been a bully too. Only... I never noticed."
Lucas didn't doubt her sincerity—many bullies remain oblivious to their actions.
Unlike deliberate tormentors like Kamisato Ayato or Raiden Kunikuzushi.
"At least you've shown remorse," Lucas stroked her hair. "You're not... beyond redemption."
"After all I did to you..." Raiden Ei clenched her fists. "You must despise me."
"I do," Lucas admitted bluntly. "I've always believed in eye-for-an-eye retribution. Hence... your current predicament."
"Please... please continue," Raiden Ei suddenly said.
"What?" This statement caught Lucas off guard.
"Let you, the bullied, punish me, the bully," Raiden Ei gazed into Lucas' eyes and spoke, "Every punishment from you is a form of liberation for me. I am willing to use my body to atone for the sins I and Kunikuzushi have committed."
Damn, are you treating this pounding like tapping an electronic wooden fish?
Trying to accumulate cyber karma here?
However, this also proved from another angle that Lucas' plan had indeed worked.
Raiden Ei's change in attitude wasn't abrupt at all. Her personality had always been stubborn—once she set her mind on something, she wouldn't easily waver in her convictions.
Otherwise, in reality, she wouldn't have gone to such lengths to pursue eternity.
So, after experiencing immense suffering in the illusion, she had come to realize her mistakes and genuinely felt remorse toward Lucas.
And the latter had precisely taken advantage of this guilt and sense of sin.
In a way, this was hypnosis even more potent than "Mirror Flower, Water Moon."
"Your words move me," Lucas cupped her face, kissing her gently. "Let us eradicate bullying together—the only way to atone for your sins."
"Yes..." Raiden Ei's eyes shone with devotion.
Suddenly, the doorbell rang.
"Finally," Lucas smirked. "Your subordinates grew worried, I presume?"
Raiden Ei draped on a coat. "I'll dismiss them."
Lucas felt no concern—with Kunikuzushi's leverage, betrayal was impossible.
Yet the visitor stunned him.
"Kujou... Sara?" Lucas blinked.
Indeed, the short-haired beauty at the door was Raiden Ei's trusted aide. While her arrival wasn't surprising, her shocked expression mirrored Lucas's own.
Having received instructions to check on Raiden Ei if unresponsive, Kujou Sara had anticipated dangerous negotiations—not an encounter with Lucas!
Torn between duty and lingering affection for her former lover, she hesitated until Raiden Ei appeared behind Lucas—her disheveled state and lingering "afterglow" unmistakable to the observant Sara.
As an adult, she instantly grasped what had transpired. Raiden Ei's calm demeanor confirmed it was consensual.
Evidently, Raiden Ei's past claims of "liking Lucas" weren't mere excuses...
"My apologies..." Sara's fists tightened. "I've come... at a bad time."
Knowing her status couldn't compete with Raiden Ei's, she prepared to leave voluntarily.
To her shock, Raiden Ei stated flatly:
"No, you've come at the perfect time. Enter."
"Eh?" Sara froze as Lucas seized her wrist, grinning. "Why hesitate? Come in."
"But I..." Sara stepped inside numbly. "I can't interrupt your... activities."
"Enough. Your eyes deceive no one," Raiden Ei abruptly lifted Sara's shirt, exposing her hidden tattoo. "Did you truly think I didn't know you've never forgotten him all these years?"
"Lady Raiden, please... stop..."
Kujou Sara's face burned crimson. Were anyone else to manhandle her thus, she'd have retaliated instantly—but against Raiden Ei, defiance was unthinkable.
The usually icy Sara now resembled a puppet in Raiden Ei's hands, utterly compliant.
Turning Sara toward Lucas, Raiden Ei declared: "See? Her heart... has always belonged to you."
She naturally didn't know that Lucas had already appreciated this lovely and charming tattoo. However, in order to prevent Raiden Ei from knowing this, both of them could only pretend to have a rather subtle expression.
"Though Sara never participated in bullying you, she's indirectly responsible..." Raiden Ei's tone brooked no argument. "Thus, she'll join our... atonement."
"Wh-what does this mean?"
Bewildered, Sara couldn't fathom the dynamics between these two.
"It's complicated to explain..." Lucas tilted Sara's chin, whispering: "Simply put—let's enjoy ourselves together."
[Immersive Mode Ends]
[Entering Text Mode]
[Quest Complete: Fulfill Raiden Kunikuzushi's Request]
[Rewards: Electro Mastery +50% ×2]
My goodness, is it because of the "communication" with two characters of electro element that the mastery of electro element is doubled?
The rewards are pretty good.
But the problem is...
Lucas is currently unable to use the power of the electro element. This talent is probably of no use at the moment
[You've successfully "conquered" Raiden Ei. Though the methods bordered on PUA, everything proceeded smoothly.]
[With Raiden Ei's power, defeating Kamisato Ayato is inevitable. However, to crush him psychologically, Kamisato Ayaka remains the key.]
[First, you arranged for Raiden Ei to invite Kamisato Ayato for negotiations.]
[Your investigations revealed his companies, though profitable, faced persistent liquidity crises.]
[Raiden Ei proposed financing to alleviate his struggles—Regarding this, Kamisato Ayato is naturally very happy. Of course, it is only in the negotiation stage at present, and the financing will take effect after the contract is officially signed.]
[Age 28: Three years have passed at the academy. Kamisato Ayaka's class enters graduation season.]
[As usual, Raiden Kunikuzushi tormented Ayaka—this time embedding itch powder in her gear to humiliate her during practice.]
[The distraught Ayaka sought you out. You prepared a bath, tenderly cleansing her while soothing her spirits.]
[Strict family curfews limited Ayaka's overnight stays. That evening, summoned by Ayato's call, she dressed reluctantly to leave.]
[Then, you asked cryptically: "Do you want... revenge?"]
[Ayaka smiled bitterly. "Even if I did, it's impossible. Having you is enough. Graduation's near—just endure a little longer."]
[Anticipating this response, you opened your laptop—revealing years of compiled evidence against Kunikuzushi.]
[The intelligent Ayaka instantly grasped their destructive potential. Properly utilized, they'd annihilate Kunikuzushi's reputation—ending her bullying permanently.]
["You... compiled these for me?" Overwhelmed, Ayaka embraced you tearfully. "I knew... you were my destiny."]
["The choice is yours," you entrusted her with the files. "Handle her as you see fit."]
[Next day, Kunikuzushi targeted Ayaka again—only to freeze when every classmate's phone pinged simultaneously. Her own screen displayed damning footage of past abuses.]
[Ayaka didn't stop there—uploading the videos publicly. Views skyrocketed to millions within hours.]
[As predicted, internet outrage exploded. Overnight, the once-arrogant Kunikuzushi became a national bullying icon—her school absence the next day confirming the backlash's severity.]
[You informed Raiden Ei that Ayaka had stolen the videos from you. Surprisingly, she showed no anger—her transformed mindset now viewed bullies as deserving punishment.]
[Visiting Kunikuzushi's room, Raiden Ei comforted her. The two—always separated by invisible barriers as non-blood relatives—finally connected through shared vulnerability. Outside, you waited patiently.]
[Entering Immersive Mode]
Where—?
Lucas surveyed the traditional Inazuman room—its centerpiece a sword rack beneath the Raiden family's triple tomoe crest.
Though modernized, the Raiden clan's martial heritage endured.
The bedroom door slid open, revealing Raiden Ei—her typically impassive face softened by something resembling relief.
"It went well?" Lucas whispered. "How is she?"
"Calmer now," Ei murmured. "She's never... cried in my arms before. Though not my blood, this feeling is... indescribable."
"Foster relationships take time," Lucas smiled. "Perhaps having your own child would feel different?"
"My own...?" Ei mused. "I've never considered it."
As a career-focused woman, marriage and motherhood never appealed to her. Adopting her late sister's daughter had further cemented her disinterest.
"Then start imagining," Lucas teased. "For instance—what would you name them?"
Though meant lightly, Ei pondered seriously before answering: "If I had a child... I'd name them 'Shogun.'"
"You... can't be serious." Lucas grimaced.
"Of course. Doesn't it command respect?" Ei stated earnestly. "Like 'Kunikuzushi'—both carry weight."
Of course, Kunikuzushi is the name of a cannon—how could the Raiden Cannon not be imposing?
"And if it's a girl?" Lucas pressed.
"Same name," Ei replied instantly. "The Raiden Shogun. Perfect."
Evidently, across timelines, Ei's naming sense remains... distinctive.
"Children's names aren't trivial," Lucas sighed. "Some get bullied for unconventional ones."
Ei smiled faintly. "Which is why I want to build a world—with you—where no child suffers bullying."
Touched, Lucas grasped her hand. "If that's the case... shouldn't we start crafting 'Little Shogun' soon?"
"Kunikuzushi's inside... You should speak with her first," Ei squirmed as Lucas stealthily groped her. "Besides, the Kamisato siblings will arrive shortly—I must... prepare."
"Understood," Lucas nodded. "The upcoming act relies on you."
"Don't underestimate..." Ei's lips curled. "...a capitalist's acting skills."
...
This was Lucas's first time entering Raiden Kunikuzushi's room.
Contrary to expectations of rebellious decor, it resembled any ordinary girl's—save for a childhood photo on the nightstand featuring Kunikuzushi with Ei and her late sister Makoto.
The beaming child in the image bore no resemblance to the present-day troublemaker.
"You... why are you here?"
Upon seeing Lucas enter the room, Raiden Kunikuzushi, who had been curled up in the corner of the bed, immediately wore a look of vigilance and muttered, "Traitor!"
"Traitor?" Lucas sat down on the edge of her bed and chuckled. "Why do you say that?"
"You... how dare you even ask?" Raiden Kunikuzushi fumed. "I trusted you so much, only to find out you were just pretending to be on my side all along... while secretly gathering evidence of me bullying Kamisato Ayaka!"
"You're not wrong. But there's one thing you've misunderstood," Lucas shook his head. "I never once claimed to be on your side. I never participated in any of your bullying. And from the very beginning, I warned you—never trust anyone too easily."
"You know what? Compared to Kamisato Ayaka, you're still far beneath her," Lucas said bluntly, without sparing her feelings. "Her patience was even greater than I expected. It was only a matter of time before you suffered at her hands. Believe me, being retaliated against now is better than later."
"You! You—!" Already furious, Raiden Kunikuzushi was further provoked by Lucas' taunts. Without thinking, she lunged at him and sank her teeth into his wrist.
The girl had never been one to hold back, and now, consumed by rage, the metallic tang of blood quickly spread in her mouth.
Yet Lucas made no move to resist or evade. Instead, he said calmly, "Compared to the pain suffered by those who were bullied, this is nothing."
Hearing this, Raiden Kunikuzushi's emotions finally subsided slightly. Staring at the bleeding wound on Lucas' wrist, she felt a mix of hatred and pity, her gaze complicated. "I... really hate you. These past few days, I haven't dared to look at my phone or watch TV—everywhere, people are cursing me. I've even... thought about suicide a few times..."
"Wrongdoings must be punished," Lucas said without remorse. "For some people, persuasion and education are meaningless. Only by making them experience the same pain will they realize their mistakes. This world is far too lenient toward young wrongdoers. It's precisely because they're protected by so-called 'laws' that they act without fear or remorse."
---
Had Lucas persisted all this time just for "revenge"?
No. He simply wanted justice.
Back then, those who bullied and tormented him—no matter how much suffering they inflicted on others—were never held accountable, excused with phrases like, "They're just kids."
Schools wouldn't punish them. The law wouldn't punish them.
So, he had to take matters into his own hands.
He had hesitated slightly about punishing Raiden Kunikuzushi. But if he wavered now, everything he'd done up to this point would be meaningless.
His words left the usually domineering Raiden Kunikuzushi momentarily speechless. She gazed at the wound on his hand and asked, "Does it hurt?"
"Does it hurt? What do you think?" Lucas said, half-amused, half-exasperated. He grabbed her hand playfully. "Here, let me bite you so you can find out."
Truthfully, Lucas was thick-skinned—a little blood from Raiden Kunikuzushi's small teeth was nothing. But if he were to bite her delicate skin with the same force, the consequences would be far worse.
Seeing Lucas' teeth poised over the back of her hand, Raiden Kunikuzushi quickly said, "Don't bite me! I... I'll help ease the pain!"
"You have that ability?" Lucas released her hand, amused. "How?"
Raiden Kunikuzushi cradled his injured hand and, like a fawn, began licking the wound.
Honestly, saliva could at most disinfect—it certainly couldn't alleviate pain.
Then again, that depended on whose saliva it was. At this moment, Lucas only felt a cool, soothing sensation spreading over the wound, the pain indeed fading somewhat.
"Well?" Raiden Kunikuzushi looked up at him. "Still hurt?"
Seeing her pitiful expression, a mischievous thought suddenly crossed Lucas' mind. He grinned. "My hand doesn't hurt anymore. But... somewhere else is starting to ache a little."
"How?" She looked skeptical. "I didn't bite you anywhere else."
"Transferred pain," Lucas lied smoothly. "Dr. Kunikuzushi, care to treat me?"
Truthfully, Raiden Kunikuzushi hadn't truly hated him to begin with. After his earlier lecture, she had mostly forgiven him. Now, his teasing even made her laugh. "Honestly, you mangy mutt, you're just full of problems, aren't you?"
Ah. She's back. She's back.
Hearing her insult him like this, Lucas finally felt somewhat relieved. At least it meant she was recovering.
"Fine," Raiden Kunikuzushi pinched his nose. "Where does it hurt?"
Lucas leaned in close to her ear and whispered two words:
"Little Kun."
Though she had already expected him to say something vulgar, hearing those words still made her cheeks flush slightly. "There are people outside..."
"It's fine. Just keep your voice down," Lucas murmured. "She has other things to attend to—she won't come in."
"Hmph. Then you'd better endure it, you mangy mutt," Raiden Kunikuzushi's eyes glinted slyly. "Don't... accidentally moan."
---
Half an hour later, Lucas leisurely stepped out of the room to find Raiden Ei still calmly brewing tea.
Seeing him, she asked flatly, "How is she?"
"I spent a long time comforting her," Lucas said shamelessly. "She's asleep now."
Just then, Kujou Sara entered from outside and bowed. "The Kamisato siblings have arrived."
"Understood. Take them to the reception hall," Raiden Ei nodded. "I'll be there shortly."
"Are you ready?" Lucas still seemed a bit uneasy. "Kamisato Ayato isn't someone to be taken lightly."
"You can listen in from behind the screen during the meeting," Raiden Ei said confidently. "You'll soon see how I perform."
With that assurance, Lucas said nothing more and followed her out.
The reception hall was spacious, divided by a large screen. Lucas hid behind it.
Before long, Kamisato Ayato and Kamisato Ayaka led by Kujou Sara "walked" in together.
Why the quotation marks around "walked"? Because Kamisato Ayato couldn't walk—his sister had to push him in.
Kamisato Ayato's expression was as composed as ever, but Kamisato Ayaka was visibly tense. Logically, she had no reason to attend this meeting. Her presence was solely due to Raiden Ei's special invitation.
Kamisato Ayaka knew full well that Raiden Ei was closely tied to Raiden Kunikuzushi. Inviting her here was undoubtedly related to the video she had posted earlier.
"Welcome," Raiden Ei said expressionlessly. "This must be your sister? Just as the rumors say—a beauty like a blooming flower."
"You flatter me, Lady Raiden," Kamisato Ayaka replied politely. "Compared to your moonlit radiance, I am but the faint glow of decaying grass."
Listening from behind the screen, Lucas found her words flawless, yet something felt off.
"Being invited to your esteemed residence is an honor for our family," Kamisato Ayato, well aware of the conflict between his sister and Raiden Ei's adopted daughter, quickly added, "Regarding the matter between my sister and your daughter..."
"Think nothing of it. Just a minor quarrel between children," Raiden Ei waved it off casually. "But there's something I must say."
"Please," Kamisato Ayato obliged. "I'm all ears."
"While Kunikuzushi was in the wrong and has been duly punished," Raiden Ei suddenly smirked coldly, "don't you think the victims of bullying share some blame as well?"
This was clearly aimed at Kamisato Ayaka. But Kamisato Ayato, unwilling to offend Raiden Ei, immediately nodded. "Of course. The bullied must have their own shortcomings. We can't blame your daughter entirely."
Hearing this, Kamisato Ayaka silently clenched her fists. Her beloved brother was now siding with the aggressor—stabbing her in the back.
This was all part of Lucas' "plan."
From the very beginning, arranging for Raiden Ei's company to invest in Kamisato Ayato's business was the first step. The goal? To make Kamisato Ayaka see her brother's true nature.
Of course, a few inflammatory words alone wouldn't be enough to sever their sibling bond.
"If the bullied share blame, then this isn't solely my daughter's fault," Raiden Ei said coolly. "Because of your sister's actions, Kunikuzushi has been cyberbullied for days—now too afraid to even leave the house. It truly... pains me."
"Lady Raiden!" Kamisato Ayaka, usually so composed, suddenly spoke up. "I don't believe what I did was wrong. Compared to what your daughter is suffering now, the pain she inflicted on me was far greater!"
"Ayaka! You have no right to speak here!" Kamisato Ayato, furious at her defiance, snapped. "Sit down!"
"Brother! Why are you siding with outsiders?" Kamisato Ayaka bit her lip. "Do you not care at all about what I've endured these past three years?"
"Ayaka, in the end, you were bullied because you were too weak," Kamisato Ayato said coldly. "Stop talking. Don't embarrass us in front of Lady Raiden."
Kamisato Ayaka knew her brother was groveling to secure the company's funding. But seeing him, once so proud, reduced to such sycophancy—while disregarding her feelings—was unbearable.
"Enough. Let's set aside childish matters," Raiden Ei, seeing the moment was ripe, continued, "We should discuss business. Regarding the investment in your company..."
Relieved the conversation was finally shifting, Kamisato Ayato quickly said, "I've prepared a comprehensive proposal. Please review it."
He carefully handed a thick dossier to his sister, who placed it on Raiden Ei's desk. But Raiden Ei didn't even glance at it.
"I've always trusted your capabilities, Mr. Kamisato," she said. "But before signing the contract, I have one small... request."
"Name it!" Kamisato Ayato said eagerly. "I'll move heaven and earth to fulfill it!"
Hidden behind the screen, Lucas nearly laughed aloud.
With those crippled legs of yours? You'd struggle just boiling soup, let alone moving mountains.
But the muffled chuckle reached Kamisato Ayato's ears. Though he recognized the mockery, he could only force an awkward smile.
"My apologies. That was my... personal advisor. Skilled, but lacking in manners," Raiden Ei said smoothly. "I'll discipline him properly after you leave."
Kamisato Ayaka found the laughter vaguely familiar but paid it no mind.
"No matter, no matter!" Kamisato Ayato waved it off. "Now, about your request?"
"Oh, it's simple. Tomorrow, I'm holding a press conference at the school," Raiden Ei smiled. "The topic? An apology regarding the bullying incident."
"That's... too kind of you," Kamisato Ayato bowed slightly. "Just children's squabbles. Your daughter needn't apologize to Ayaka."
"No. It's not my daughter apologizing to your sister," Raiden Ei wagged a finger. "It's your sister apologizing to my daughter."
"What?" Kamisato Ayaka whispered. "I have to... apologize to her?"
Kamisato Ayato was equally stunned. "Lady Raiden, what do you mean?"
"I want your sister to stand before the nation's media and declare that those videos were fabricated by her to frame Kunikuzushi," Raiden Ei's expression turned icy. "Thus, she must apologize. This way, the 'misunderstanding' is resolved, and Kunikuzushi is spared further cyberbullying. Perfect, no?"
Though Kamisato Ayato had been fawning over Raiden Ei, he still cared for his sister. Internally, he cursed—how could she propose something so cruel? Turning the victim into the perpetrator and vice versa?
If this went through, Kamisato Ayaka's suffering would be in vain, and the cyberbullying would now target her.
"This matter..." Kamisato Ayato gritted his teeth. "...may be difficult."
"Difficult?" Raiden Ei stood abruptly and flipped the table. The neatly stacked documents scattered like snowflakes. Standing amidst the flurry, she said coldly, "Then forget it. The investment is canceled. Repay all previous loans immediately."
At its core, corporate warfare wasn't complicated. Real battles were this straightforward.
The overturned table made Kamisato Ayato realize—there was no room for negotiation. Without the investment, the company would face dire straits. But if the loans were recalled? That wouldn't just be a liquidity crisis—it would be ruin.
Sweat dripped from his brow.
"This is intolerable!" Kamisato Ayaka finally lost her composure. "Brother, let's go—"
But as she moved to wheel him out, Kamisato Ayato grabbed her wrist.
"Ayaka..." His face was ashen. "Help me... one last time. Please."
Kamisato Ayaka froze as if struck by lightning. Trembling, she whispered, "What... did you say?"
"I'm begging you. The company can't survive without this funding!" The usually dignified Kamisato Ayato now looked desperate, his eyes darting. "Just apologize to Lady Raiden's daughter. After this, I'll agree to anything!"
"Brother, for the company, you'd sacrifice me? Where's your pride?" Tears welled in Kamisato Ayaka's eyes. "If the company falls, we can rebuild. But dignity once lost... can never be regained."
"No! The company can't fall!" Kamisato Ayato roared hysterically. "Without my status, I'm just a pitiful cripple!"
Kamisato Ayaka had never seen her brother like this. Now, he seemed both alien and pitiful.
"Please, Ayaka... it's just an apology..." Kamisato Ayato's eyes burned with desperation. "Just this once! Help me this once, and I'll promise you anything!"
In the past, Kamisato Ayaka would never have defied him. But now, she stood firm. "This... I can't do it."
SLAP!
A sharp crack echoed as Kamisato Ayato struck her. "As your elder brother, I command you! If you refuse, I'll... disown you!"
Clutching her stinging cheek, Kamisato Ayaka felt nothing but utter disillusionment.
Facing her brother, now beyond redemption, she gave a bitter laugh—and walked away.
"Ayaka! Stop! STOP!"
No matter how he screamed, she didn't look back.
"It seems the Kamisato family's discipline leaves much to be desired," Raiden Ei said icily. "How can a family member defy their head so brazenly?"
Lucas nearly laughed again.
Says the woman who can't control her own daughter.
"Indeed... I spoiled her too much. That's why she's so unruly," Kamisato Ayato's teeth chattered with rage. "Rest assured, tomorrow's press conference—she will apologize. As for the contract..."
"Sign it the moment she does." Raiden Ei clapped. "Escort him out."
Once Kamisato Ayato was wheeled away, Lucas—the "hidden advisor"—emerged from behind the screen, applauding. "Bravo. That performance was flawless."
Her arrogance, her disdain, her unyielding authority—it all radiated the bearing of a true Archon.
"Performance? I wasn't acting," Raiden Ei smiled. "That's just how I treat incompetent subordinates."
No wonder it felt so natural—she was just being herself!
Of course, only this level of authenticity could fool someone as shrewd as Kamisato Ayato.
"Still, even I found this a bit excessive," Raiden Ei mused. "That Kamisato girl must feel utterly alone now, drowning in despair."
"Relax. This was all part of the plan," Lucas crossed his arms, grinning. "Kamisato Ayato... tonight, your life will change forever."
---
Perhaps influenced by Kamisato Ayaka's sorrow, a light snow had begun to fall outside Raiden Ei's estate, the flakes dancing beautifully in the air.
Without delay, Lucas headed straight for his rented apartment. Sure enough, upon arrival, he found a girl curled up at his doorstep, her body dusted with snow—looking both pitiful and helpless.
It was Kamisato Ayaka. After such a crushing blow, Lucas was the only person left she could turn to.
Though this was all according to plan, seeing her so vulnerable still tugged at Lucas' conscience.
In this entire simulation, among all the characters, Kamisato Ayaka was perhaps the only one without a single flaw. Yet she had suffered the most.
"Ayaka?" Lucas hurried forward. "Why are you here? What happened?"
Kamisato Ayaka looked up—then threw herself into his arms, weeping.
"My brother... betrayed me."