Chapter 1: I'm Back! Or... Am I?
IF Route: Assuming the Previous Era's Herrscher of Sentience stayed in character.
(Warning: Knives ahead. Proceed with caution. I repeat—KNIVES! KNIVES! KNIVES!)
"So... you're still determined to use yourself as bait?"
Vill-V (Friendly Mode) frowned at Chang Yuan.
This plan was far too dangerous—sending someone with no mental resistance was practically a death sentence.
"Of course. I can die, but you all can't. You're more important than me."
Yuan nodded, confirming Vill-V's suspicions.
The others knew they couldn't stop him, so they had no choice but to trust him.
Soon, rumors of Yuan's ability to "foresee the future" spread throughout MOTH and human civilization.
During the lull before the next Herrscher's emergence, Yuan secluded himself to write a script for the Current Era.
He had considered the possibility of his own failure.
But with this script, humanity would triumph regardless of whether he lived or died. Yet more than anything, he hoped Elysia would survive.
The script was thick, carrying Yuan's promise to her.
It detailed events down to the hour, with suggestions on avoiding butterfly effects—or altering certain outcomes for a better ending.
"Yuan~? What's this?"
Elysia curiously picked up the hefty notebook—unaware it was both a love letter and a will.
"This? After the 8th Herrscher is dealt with, you can show it to Vill-V and the others. But not yet."
"Mean~! Keeping secrets from me now? Bad Yuan!"
Pouting, Elysia feigned hurt but respected his wishes, leaving the notebook unopened.
"Come on, let's go out. How about some dessert to lift your mood? Or consider it my apology."
"Mmhm! How could the lovely Miss Pink Elf refuse such an offer♪?"
One year later...
In an empty room, Yuan sat perfectly still on a chair.
Each passing second was agony.
Then—everything changed.
He was back in his old apartment, before his journey began.
Surveying the familiar-yet-foreign surroundings, Yuan steeled himself.
"Finally. Let's see how strong you really are."
He pushed open the door—
And came face-to-face with a pink-haired girl.
"Hi there! I'm your new neighbor, Elysia! Nice to meet you♪."
Seemingly surprised by the coincidence herself, Elysia blinked before flashing a radiant smile.
Yuan froze.
"I-I'm Chang Yuan."
"Aw, stuttering when talking to a girl? How adorable♪."
Elysia's eyes curved into mischievous crescents.
Yuan's face burned.
This was Elysia—but a girl-next-door version. It was overwhelming.
"As a girl, I might need lots of help later So, how about breakfast at my place? A little 'thank you' in advance?"
Clasping her hands cutely, Elysia tilted her head in invitation.
"...Okay. Thanks."
After a pause, Yuan accepted.
Elysia beamed, skipping ahead to open her door.
"Come in! You can borrow any slippers—we'll be visiting often, after all! Oh, and I didn't catch your name earlier?"
She gestured to the shoe rack, then waited expectantly.
"Chang Yuan. But no need for 'big brother'—I'm not much older. Just Yuan is fine."
The term warmed his heart, but it felt too intimate.
"Mmhm! Then I'll call you 'A-Yuan'! In return, call me 'Elysia'! Oh, do you prefer mild or bold flavors?"
Peeking from the kitchen, Elysia awaited his preference.
"Bold."
"Oho! Same as me! What a coincidence! Make yourself at home—TV's all yours~♪."
Humming, she began cooking while Yuan sat stiffly on the couch.
Still suspicious, he checked his phone—and froze at an ad for "Honkai Impact 3rd."
His hands shook as he opened it.
The game's story had progressed to Kiana defeating Kevin and saving the world.
"Is this the illusion... or was everything before just a dream?"
The realism was staggering—yet here was Elysia, alive and well.
He couldn't tell what was real anymore.
As he scrolled through the game's lore, time slipped by—
Until Elysia emerged with breakfast.
"Ta-da! Elysia's special lean pork congee, semi-sweet pumpkin pancakes, and fresh soy milk! Amazing, right?"
She proudly presented the meal—only to pout when Yuan didn't look up from his phone.
Chapter 2: Reality or Illusion? Or Just a Dream?
Leaning over, Elysia peeked at Yuan's phone—then brightened. "You play Honkai Impact 3rd too?"
"Too?"
Yuan looked up, confused.
"I play it as well! Especially the Elysia character—she's based on me! I gave them permission to use my likeness. So? Do you feel like you've met your idol♪?"
She winked playfully, clearly delighted to find a fellow fan.
"Permission? Likeness? So... Elysia is real?"
Yuan was at a loss.
Was this truly an illusion? Why did it perfectly mimic his pre-isekai life? The only anomaly was Elysia herself.
But now she claimed the in-game character was modeled after her—with her consent.
It made him question everything, yet it also felt disturbingly plausible.
"Of course I'm real! See? I even have an ID card. Though getting a Chinese residence permit was quite the hassle~♪."
She proudly handed Yuan her green residency card.
Taking it, Yuan carefully examined the details:
Name: Elysia
Gender: Female
Birthdate: November 11, 2004
ID Number: ***
Place of Birth: Xiyuexi
Everything looked authentic. Yuan fell silent.
"I... apologize. I thought Elysia didn't exist. That's why I was so startled earlier."
"Mmhm! I figured! But it's understandable—who'd believe someone as perfect and adorable as me could be real♪?"
Elysia giggled, completely unfazed.
"Now eat up before it gets cold~♪."
"Thanks."
Yuan ate quietly, lost in thought.
Was this reality or fabrication?
As he ate, he felt an intense gaze upon him.
Looking up, he found Elysia staring unabashedly.
"Um... is something wrong?"
"Not at all! You're just the first boy I've ever invited over, so I wanted to look at you properly. You don't mind, do you♪?"
Resting her chin on one hand, Elysia tilted her head with a teasing smile.
Yuan immediately looked away, face burning.
This was too much.
He couldn't afford to lose himself in this fantasy. He had to find flaws in this illusion—to break free.
After breakfast, Yuan hastily excused himself.
"I'll... just go along with things for now. Act normal."
Practically fleeing, he locked himself in his apartment and booted up his computer.
Done with manual labor, he sought remote work online.
With his extensive experience, he quickly secured a job.
For days, he barely left his apartment—except when Elysia summoned him for breakfast.
"Flaws... there must be flaws. Damn, this Herrscher's illusion is too strong."
Lying on his bed, Yuan stared blankly at the ceiling.
Knock knock knock—!
"A-Yuan? It's Elysia! I need your help with something~♪."
Sighing, Yuan got up and opened the door.
"What do you need?"
"Well, I want to go grocery shopping and buy some clothes—lots of things, really! It's too much for one person, so... could you come with me? Please♪?"
Clasping her hands pleadingly, Elysia gave him puppy-dog eyes.
After a pause, Yuan agreed.
Might as well. He'd eaten her food for days—even if this was an illusion, he owed her this much.
"Yay! You're the best♪."
Elysia bounced excitedly before retreating to prepare.
When she reappeared, she had applied light makeup and carried a small purse—looking more like she was going on a date than shopping.
Yuan opened his mouth but ultimately said nothing.
This was definitely not a grocery run outfit.
But if this was how she wanted to dress, who was he to judge?
As they walked, Yuan noticed countless eyes on them—or rather, on Elysia.
Beautiful, lively, and radiant—she naturally drew attention wherever she went.
Most people kept their distance, merely watching from afar.
But Yuan still caught snippets of conversation—mostly variations of "What a shame, she already has a boyfriend."
He didn't bother correcting them.
Elysia was his girlfriend—just not this Elysia.
"Hehe~ It's always like this. Before you moved in, so many people tried to get my contact info. But now that you're here, they don't dare approach~♪."
"Probably because they think I'm your boyfriend. They're being polite."
"That could be it~! So... do you want to be my boyfriend?"
"That's not funny."
Yuan stopped walking and glared at her.
Elysia just laughed. "What? Do you dislike me? I can't believe someone wouldn't like Elysia! Oh, I know—you're just shy! But don't worry, it was just a joke♪."
She brushed it off effortlessly, but Yuan remained tense.
As they walked further, something felt off.
They'd passed multiple grocery stores.
"Weren't we going shopping? We missed the markets."
"Aiya~ The supermarket has everything too! Come on, just trust me~♪."
Elysia waved dismissively, clearly avoiding the subject.
Yuan could only sigh.
Chapter 3: Elysia's Girlfriend Power Explodes - Yuan Begins to Doubt
They finally arrived at the supermarket, but instead of heading to the grocery section as expected, Elysia led them straight to the second-floor clothing department.
"Clothes first?"
"Of course! We can pack them neatly in bags. If we bought groceries first, they might get dirty when we come back for clothes♪."
Elysia offered a perfectly logical explanation.
Yuan couldn't argue with that, so he stopped questioning further.
The women's section was filled with all kinds of intimate apparel and dresses.
But the sight of lingerie made Yuan acutely aware that, as a man, he probably shouldn't be here.
"Sir, are you here with your girlfriend? She's quite beautiful."
"No, she's not my girlfriend."
"That's right! He's just my neighbor. I just needed help carrying things today♪."
Elysia cheerfully clarified for Yuan.
The sales clerk didn't seem convinced.
What kind of girl would bring a neighbor along to pick out clothes? That just wasn't normal.
In the clerk's mind, they were obviously a couple—just too shy to admit it.
"I see~! Well, miss, feel free to try on anything you like."
"Hmm... I'm not sure. Let's start with this one."
After some deliberation, Elysia pointed to a pure white dress.
The clerk handed it to her, and Elysia held it up against herself to check the fit.
"Yuan, do you think this would look good on me?"
"...Yeah, it would."
Staring at the white dress, Yuan genuinely thought it would suit her.
Once I break this illusion, I'll find the best tailor to recreate this for her.
"You really think so? Then I'll try it on~♪."
Elysia disappeared into the fitting room and emerged moments later, transformed.
The dress gave her an ethereal, princess-like charm—playful yet elegant.
Heads turned as people noticed her.
"Yuan~? How do I look now? Even better, right?"
She twirled in front of him, showcasing the dress before looking at him expectantly.
"...Breathtaking."
"Hehe~ Of course! Elysia looks good in anything~! I'll take this one."
After changing back, she had the dress packed and moved on to browse more outfits.
A white hat, a white T-shirt, and loose pink shorts—Elysia adored this casual set too.
Yuan found himself staring.
No, it's not that my heart wavers—it's just that this is still Elysia. I still love her.
One shopping bag soon became ten.
Yuan, now with an ordinary human physique, started feeling the strain.
Odd... I'm actually accepting that I'm just a normal person now?
"Alright~! Let's check out over there next."
After paying, Elysia tugged at Yuan's sleeve, guiding him toward another section.
With his arms full of boxes, his vision was partially blocked.
"Put these down for now. What do you think of this outfit?"
"Sure, but why are you still—wait, this is men's clothing? You wear men's clothes?"
Yuan blinked at the outfit in Elysia's hands.
What? Since when did the Herrscher of Sentience know Elysia had a cross-dressing fetish? This is totally OOC!
He felt he'd finally found the flaw in the illusion.
You've slipped up at last, you wicked Herrscher of Sentience.
But just as he stepped forward, Elysia rolled her eyes.
"Who said it's for me? It's for you—consider it payment for your hard work~♪."
"Wait, wasn't breakfast the payment? And why are you being so nice to me?"
"Neighbors help each other, don't they? Besides, you never go out. I haven't seen you with any friends."
"I was worried you'd rot in that apartment, so I made up an excuse to drag you out shopping. You don't mind, do you? Though technically, it wasn't all a lie—we did do everything I said we would~♪."
"..."
Yuan froze mid-step.
This... is exactly something Elysia would do.
So is this the real Elysia? Did I never actually travel to another world? Was it all just an incredibly vivid dream?
The thought horrified him.
No, no, no! This can't be real. It has to be an illusion!
Suppressing the idea, he finally looked back at Elysia.
"Yuan~? If you don't like it, just say so. All that head-shaking—I thought you were sick!"
"N-No, I don't dislike it. This one's fine."
Flustered, Yuan defaulted to the universal male response: "Whatever."
"Ah~! Just like Baidu said—men always just say 'whatever' when picking clothes. Tsk tsk—you should take better care of yourself! Some things can't be brushed off with a 'whatever'~♪."
Elysia put the outfit back, her tone unusually stern—as if genuinely acting the part of a responsible girlfriend.
Then she picked out another set: a light gray T-shirt paired with white shorts.
"Mmhm~ This one screams 'youthful energy'! Go try it on—let me see~♪."
"...Fine."
Yuan took the clothes into the fitting room.
When he came out, Elysia clapped softly.
"Perfect! Just as I imagined. We're taking this one. Now, onto the next♪."
"Wait—one is enough."
"Enough? You need at least seven! One for each day of the week. No more rotating the same two outfits—that's way too boring~♪."
Chapter 4: False World, Real Love—or Real World, False Love?
Elysia made it clear: Her opinion overruled his.
Yuan could only sigh in resignation.
And so, he became Elysia's personal mannequin.
After picking out seven outfits, Elysia happily paid.
"I could've paid for these myself."
"Nope~! Since I dragged you out, I'm covering everything. Now, let's pack these up and go grocery shopping~♪."
With the clothes securely bagged, Elysia led Yuan to the supermarket's fresh produce section.
She quickly selected ingredients and checked out.
"Hehe~ See? Isn't this way more fun than staying cooped up at home?"
Walking back under the midday sun, Elysia carried bags of groceries in both hands, smiling at Yuan.
The sunlight was harsh, but its warmth on Yuan's skin made him pause.
Is all of this... really fake?
Even this affection, this serendipitous encounter—are they all illusions?
Truth or lies? Reality or dream? He couldn't tell anymore.
Thud.
"Oof—!"
Yuan snapped back to reality after bumping into someone.
"Sorry, I was lost in thought. Are you okay?"
"You dummy! I was standing right in front of you calling your name! Yuan is such a dummy~♪."
Pouting, Elysia glared at him like an annoyed girlfriend.
Yuan awkwardly looked away.
"Hmph. Fine, I'll forgive you this time. But answer me properly now—isn't going out more fun than staying home?"
"Well... I'm not sure. But right now, yeah, it is."
He glanced at Elysia before averting his gaze.
If this were real, then yes—going out with someone I love would always be better than staying in.
But... it can't be real.
In reality, how could someone like her ever notice someone like me? Reality isn't an anime.
"Hehe~ I knew it! Then you have to come out with me again! Consider it compensation for bumping into me~♪."
"...Fine."
Yuan reluctantly agreed.
Back at Elysia's apartment, Yuan set down the shopping bags, sweating profusely.
Damn, without my MANTIS physique, even this much is exhausting.
"Here! A wet wipe for your face♪."
Elysia handed him one with a gentle smile.
"Thanks."
Yuan wiped off the sticky sweat, grimacing at the unpleasant sensation.
While he rested, Elysia headed to the kitchen to cook.
"Yuan~? Come help me! This fish is way too lively—I can't hold it down alone~♪."
Hearing her call, Yuan immediately went to assist.
Inside, he found Elysia struggling to pin down a thrashing fish.
"Don't just stand there! Help me! Unless you don't want to eat later~?"
"Right, right."
Yuan took over, firmly gripping the fish.
Elysia raised a kitchen knife—
Whack!
The swift decapitation made Yuan flinch.
That was... disturbingly efficient.
"Alright, you can go now. Unless... you can cook? Though I doubt it, given your takeout addiction."
"...I can, actually. Need help?"
"Eh?! Really? Then you're on veggie duty—wash and trim them. Oh, and boil these shrimp, peel them, and remove the veins. I'll handle the rest~♪."
Surprised, Elysia delegated tasks without hesitation.
The two worked side by side in the kitchen—their coordination so seamless, anyone watching would mistake them for a long-married couple.
After finishing his tasks, Yuan sat down to rest.
Half an hour later, Elysia emerged with the dishes.
"Braised fish, fried shrimp balls, blanched cabbage, and beef with broccoli~! Ta-da! Try my masterpieces~♪."
She proudly announced each dish, her expression screaming "Praise me!"
"They look great. Definitely better than anything I could make."
"Hehe~ Then dig in before they get cold~♪."
Pleased with the compliment, Elysia fetched bowls and chopsticks.
She served Yuan first before helping herself.
Throughout the meal, she kept placing her favorite dishes onto his plate.
"You have to try these—they're my favorites~♪."
"Okay."
Yuan ate obediently, like a mindless food processor.
After dinner, he helped wash the dishes before taking his new clothes back to his apartment.
Under the shower's spray, Yuan pondered:
Am I the one who's broken?
"Maybe... I should see a doctor tomorrow?"
With that thought, he decided to visit a psychologist—or perhaps a psychiatrist.
After his shower, he lay in bed, waiting for morning.
Next Day - Psychological Clinic
Yuan skipped breakfast with Elysia and went straight to the nearest mental health clinic.
"So, you're saying you had an extremely vivid dream that blurred the line between reality and fantasy?"
The psychologist summarized Yuan's self-reported symptoms.
"Exactly. Any idea what's going on?"
"This is a classic case of escapism-induced delusion. Prolonged isolation has made you retreat into fantasy—likely as a coping mechanism."
"Your subconscious created this dream as an exit strategy. But you must avoid acting on any dangerous impulses. Understood?"
"...Got it. Thanks, Doctor."
Leaving with his diagnosis, Yuan stared blankly at the medical report.
"Diagnosis: Maladaptive daydreaming with dissociative features. Recommended treatment: Social reintegration therapy."
The words offered no clarity—only deeper confusion.
[To Be Continued...]
Chapter 5: Three Years Later, Confessing to Elysia
Stepping out of the clinic, Chang Yuan found it hard to believe, yet the doctor's words were undeniably logical.
After shaking his head, Chang Yuan headed to a major hospital and went straight to the psychiatry department.
"After various examinations, you're diagnosed with typical neurasthenia, caused by frequent late nights and irregular eating habits. So, your psychological evaluation isn't wrong—what he described could indeed happen."
"...Thank you, doctor."
Leaving the hospital, Chang Yuan wandered aimlessly on his way home.
Were all those experiences he'd gone through just illusions? Yet why did they feel so vivid and unforgettable?
As he walked, a pink figure suddenly appeared, startling him.
"Hi~ Did you miss me?"
"!!!"
He instinctively stepped back but relaxed upon recognizing the person.
"Elysia, could you not scare me like that?"
Helplessly looking at the girl before him, Chang Yuan found himself utterly powerless against her.
"I wasn't trying to scare you. I just greeted you normally—who knew you'd be so distracted? But what's that in your hand? Looks like a medical report. You don't have some terminal illness, do you?"
Her gaze lingered on the document in Chang Yuan's hand as Elysia curiously inquired.
After a moment's hesitation, Chang Yuan finally showed her the report.
"Oh, really? Let me see~ It better not be something serious."
Carefully opening the file, Elysia scrutinized every word.
After confirming it wasn't a terminal illness, she visibly sighed in relief.
"So it's not a terminal illness? That's good. But neurasthenia? Hmph, figures. Before I came along, you didn't even have friends, so of course your eating habits were a mess. Well, from now on, I'll just have to take good care of you."
"...Why are you so nice to me? There's nothing about me that would attract you, right?"
Chang Yuan knew himself well.
He couldn't have made Elysia fall in love at first sight—unless it was like that long dream he'd had, where their bond was nurtured over years.
Otherwise, no one could ever earn Elysia's exclusive affection.
"Why? I don't know either. Maybe it was our first coincidental meeting. But does it really matter? Isn't cherishing the present enough~?"
Elysia didn't give a direct answer, offering only a vague response instead.
After handing the file back to Chang Yuan, she walked alongside him, keeping him company all the way home.
Only when they reached the hallway of their rented apartment did they part ways.
Lying on his bed, Chang Yuan repeatedly muttered to himself, This is just an illusion, this is just an illusion. Elysia and the others are waiting for me to return.
He lost count of how many times he repeated it until the aroma of cooking wafted in from next door.
Knock knock knock—
"Yuan, dinner's ready~ Come eat with me."
"...Okay."
Getting up, Chang Yuan slipped on his shoes and headed to Elysia's place.
The spread of dishes before him felt oddly familiar now, as if he'd grown accustomed to it.
"Hmph, from now on, I'll handle your meals. You, on the other hand, should go find a job. Getting out is better than staying cooped up at home. Or—you could join me in streaming! I'm an outdoor vlogger, you know~?"
"...Whatever."
Having grown somewhat used to this illusory Elysia's care, Chang Yuan found himself increasingly helpless against her.
"Then I'll take that as a yes! From now on, when I go live, you're coming with me. Hehe~."
As they chatted, the two ate together.
Most of the time, Elysia initiated the conversations while Chang Yuan passively responded.
Days passed like this, until a year later...
During one of their streams, a comment flashed by.
Elysia read it aloud.
"Streamer, it's been a year—aren't you two thinking of getting married yet?"
"Sorry~ Yuan and I aren't in that kind of relationship."
Blinking playfully, Elysia addressed the comment with her usual charm.
But those words struck a chord in Chang Yuan.
Romantic relationship. Marriage.
Too much time had passed. Though a part of him still suspected this was an illusion, the relentless passage of time made him question whether he was the one with mental issues.
"Yuan, Yuan They're calling you a scumbag, hehe."
Pointing at the barrage of comments accusing him of being a "scum,"
Many viewers believed Chang Yuan and Elysia were practically a couple.
After all, what kind of platonic friends streamed outdoor trips together without any other romantic interests involved?
The worst part? They fed each other during meals. If that wasn't a relationship, did the audience look stupid to them?
But who could bring themselves to blame Elysia?
So, they directed their frustrations at Chang Yuan, accusing him of enjoying Elysia's affection without reciprocating—a classic freeloader.
"...I guess that does sound pretty scummy."
Rubbing his chin, Chang Yuan conceded the viewers had a point.
How was his behavior any different from a scumbag's?
But he wasn't confident about confessing either—this was Elysia we were talking about.
Even if this was an illusion, would Senti the Herrscher of Sentience let him see through it so easily?
A confession would inevitably fail.
Unless... this wasn't an illusion at all.
"You finally admit it. But it's been a year, and you look much better now than before. Seems having someone by your side really helped. So, shouldn't you say, Thank you, Elysia~?"
Teasingly batting her eyelashes at him, Elysia stared expectantly.
Playing along, Chang Yuan obliged, "Thank you, Elysia. Even though you're younger than me."
"Pfft, none of your business~ Let's go, time for dinner."
Ending the stream, Elysia cheerfully headed home with Chang Yuan to cook.
Two more years passed...
In a grand plaza, Chang Yuan nervously clutched a bouquet of flowers.
His eyes darted around, searching for a certain someone.
Finally, when a pink figure in a white dress appeared, he suppressed his anxiety.
"Yuan, over here! What's the occasion today? Felt like hanging out?"
Noticing his nervousness, Elysia smirked knowingly.
The clever Elysia had already seen through everything.
"I, I—"
"Alright, alright. I know. I accept your confession. From now on, take care of me, my dear boyfriend~."
Chapter 6: Plans for the Future—Chang Yuan, the "Kept" Man
Seeing Chang Yuan's intentions, Elysia preemptively accepted his confession before he could even speak.
Then, she extended her hand.
Chang Yuan froze.
After all, he hadn't even uttered his confession yet—yet the person he was about to confess to had already agreed. This combo left him stunned.
"Yuan, spacing out at a time like this?"
Elysia's playful chiding snapped him back to reality.
In a fluster, Chang Yuan didn't even hand her the flowers—instead, he fumbled for a box in his pocket.
Inside was a ring he'd painstakingly prepared. Not a conventional one, but a pink crystal carved into a floral design, a more affordable alternative.
Slipping it onto the middle finger of Elysia's outstretched right hand, he then hurriedly grabbed the bouquet and handed it to her.
"Hmph, took you long enough to confess. You really are a bit slow, huh? You should've done this years ago."
"I, I had things going on back then. But now... maybe it's better."
That dream had been too long—so long that he could no longer distinguish reality.
But now, he saw clearly. He'd never traveled to another world. It was all just a hallucination from being alone for too long.
Now, he needed to face reality, embrace it—even if it wasn't perfect, he'd welcome it with open arms.
Besides, he wasn't alone anymore.
"True. But just to be safe, Yuan, let's go to the psychiatric clinic first, then the hospital for another checkup. Make sure you're fully healed."
"Huh? But we just got together. Shouldn't we go on a date or something?"
"Dates can happen anytime. Your health comes first."
Poking his chest with a slender finger, Elysia gave him a pointed look.
To her, the well-being of those she cared about mattered most.
Unable to refuse, Chang Yuan eventually found himself back at the clinic.
"Hmm, your mental state seems stable now—back to normal levels. You haven't had those dreams anymore, right?"
"No."
"Good. Then you're fully recovered. Congratulations."
Handing him the evaluation, the psychiatrist offered his regards.
Confirmed to be mentally sound, Chang Yuan smiled for the first time in what felt like forever.
Elysia, who'd accompanied him, beamed alongside him.
After a final hospital checkup confirming his recovery, they left.
"Yuan, I'm so glad you're okay! Hmph, with Dr. Elysia by your side, this little illness never stood a chance~."
"Then thank you, my dear Elysia."
"Let's eat out tonight."
After drinks, they returned to Elysia's apartment.
Lying side by side on the same bed, they did nothing but gaze at the ceiling, discussing their future.
"Yuan, we've saved up quite a bit over the years. Should we buy our own place?"
"We should. But we need to plan for other things too—daily expenses, maybe kids' education someday. Lots to consider."
"Ugh, talking about kids already? Yuan, you're so shameless~."
At the sensitive topic, Elysia shyly turned over, lightly punching his chest.
"Heh, with such a beautiful girlfriend, it'd be weird if I didn't think about it. But we still need a solid plan."
"Mm, let's plan carefully then. I think—"
As they talked, time slipped away, and drowsiness crept in.
And so, they fell asleep in each other's arms.
The next morning, Chang Yuan faintly felt something tickling his face.
Opening his eyes, he saw Elysia, already awake, twirling a strand of her hair around her finger and brushing it against his cheek.
"Good morning, my dear Yuan~."
Their faces were barely a fist's width apart, her warm breath grazing his skin.
The sight left Chang Yuan momentarily dazed.
Unfazed, Elysia sat up, smoothing out her slightly wrinkled clothes.
"I'll shower first. Yuan, go back and shower too. Then—we're house-hunting."
"Okay."
Blinking at her, Chang Yuan acknowledged.
Only after the sound of running water filled the bathroom did he slowly get up and return to his own place.
As a guy, his shower was naturally quicker than Elysia's.
Soon, he was back in her apartment, waiting.
Twenty minutes later, Elysia emerged wrapped in a white towel.
"Yuan, grab the hairdryer for me~."
Sitting on the bed, she pointed to its location while using another towel to dry her hair.
Plugging in the hairdryer, Chang Yuan gently ran his fingers through her pink locks as he dried them.
"Yuan, you're so good at this. Have you done this for other girls before~?"
"I haven't! I swear!"
Flustered, Chang Yuan vehemently denied.
He could swear to heaven—Elysia was the only girl he'd ever dried hair for.
"Ehehe, I'm just teasing. Your reactions are so fun."
Her bell-like laughter rang out, light and melodious.
"Geez, that's not funny."
Pouting, Chang Yuan shot her a mock-grumpy look.
After their morning banter, they got ready and headed to a real estate agency.
There, Elysia took a liking to a small villa—complete with a backyard garden and pool, perfect for a leisurely, retirement-like lifestyle.
Without hesitation, she swiped her card and bought it outright.
Notably, this only dented her savings by 1/20.
"Wow, never thought I'd live in a place like this in my lifetime."
Stepping inside, the spacious living room and spiral staircase felt overwhelmingly grand—just the entrance alone dwarfed their old rental.
Chapter 7: Officially Announcing Their Love, Receiving Everyone's Blessings
"Alright, don't just stand there. Go pick a room. Hmm~ Should we share one, my dear Yuan?"
Elysia blinked playfully at Chang Yuan, extending an invitation to cohabit.
Hearing this, Chang Yuan's face flushed involuntarily.
"I think... that's fine. Cough I'll control myself."
"If you hadn't said that, I might've believed you."
With an exasperated eye-roll, Elysia began exploring the villa, locating the bedrooms based on the agent's earlier descriptions.
She planned to spend the entire day decorating their new space.
"Yuan, quick, quick! Found the bedroom! Let's plan how to decorate it~!"
Sitting on the bed in a seiza-like pose, Elysia pulled out her phone, snapping photos before converting them into a 3D model to simulate renovations.
Honestly, the app was incredibly useful.
It allowed them to virtually place existing or purchasable furniture into the space, previewing the final result—massively reducing room for error.
Yet despite being officially a couple now, Chang Yuan remained awkward, keeping a cautious distance.
"Silly, we're dating now! Why are you still so shy?"
Noticing the two-fist gap between them, Elysia immediately closed it—then decided that wasn't enough, climbing onto Chang Yuan's lap instead.
His hands fluttered helplessly, unsure where to rest.
"Just hold me properly~ Then we'll pick furniture together. If something looks good, we'll buy it and decorate accordingly."
Setting her tablet aside, Elysia guided his arms around her waist before resuming her virtual renovations.
But the entire process was mostly Elysia making choices while Chang Yuan stiffly held her, occasionally nodding or murmuring agreement.
Elysia sighed but didn't press further.
Finally, she designated a spare room as their gaming den.
"Yuan, how about we pivot to game streaming from now on?"
"Uh, sure. Whatever you say."
"Honestly, can't you, as a man, have some opinion of your own?"
Puffing her cheeks, Elysia shot him a mock-glare.
"But... with you here, I don't want to think. I just want to hold you like this. That's enough for me."
Somehow, Chang Yuan had unlocked a newfound eloquence.
Instantly, Elysia's teasing expression melted into a blush.
"Geez, since when did you become so smooth? Fine, I'll indulge you this once~."
What could she do? Her boyfriend's sudden sweetness left her defenseless.
After finalizing their selections, Elysia scheduled an on-site decorating team.
The crew arrived swiftly, assembling furniture with practiced efficiency—even dusting up afterward.
"You didn't go with pink decor? I thought you'd choose pink everything."
"While I adore pink, I had to consider you too. You might not like it. So~ pink bedsheets are enough, no?"
At Chang Yuan's confusion, Elysia smiled tenderly, explaining her reasoning.
Once again, her sincerity left Chang Yuan dazed.
With a wife like this, what more could a man ask for?
Yet guilt gnawed at him—Elysia gave so much, while he struggled to reciprocate. His only offering was companionship, meager as it was.
"There you go, frowning again. What's worrying you?"
Forcing his brow smooth with her fingers, Elysia leaned against his back, whispering by his ear.
"I... I feel like I'm always relying on you without contributing anything. It doesn't sit right with me."
Seeing her concern, Chang Yuan confessed his thoughts honestly.
Elysia simply hugged him quietly for a long moment before responding:
"Your presence is the greatest gift. I've always feared loneliness the most."
"Elysia..."
For the umpteenth time, Chang Yuan was left speechless.
How did someone like me deserve such a girl? It felt surreal—beyond anything he'd dared dream.
"Elysia, meeting you is the luckiest thing that's ever happened to me."
This time, Chang Yuan didn't hesitate, gently caressing her hand as he voiced the words he'd held back for years.
"The luckiest, huh? How do you know I don't feel the same?"
Elysia's tender reply carried mutual devotion—their love was a shared blessing.
"Enough sentimentality! Let's game in the den. I'll announce our pivot to my fans too!"
"Heh, wonder how they'll react to me officially being your boyfriend. Might lose some followers."
"So what? You're the one I love, not them~?"
Follower counts meant nothing to Elysia—Chang Yuan was her only priority.
Soon, they booted up their gaming setup. As the stream went live, viewers flooded in.
"Ta-da~! Big news everyone! Yours truly is now Elysia's official boyfriend!"
Lifting Elysia's hand, Chang Yuan proudly displayed the ring on her middle finger to the camera.
The chat exploded.
"Bro, we were joking about you two! You actually did it?!"
"Bastard! Let go of my goddess's hand—I haven't even touched it!"
As expected, mass heartbreak ensued. Yet oddly, Elysia's follower count rose instead of dropping.
"Fine, you lucky dog. Better treat our Elysia right."
Soon, the chat overflowed with blessings.
"Of course. Elysia's radiance inspires nothing but goodwill."
Chapter 8: On Being a Good Husband
After announcing their streaming pivot, viewers clarified—they weren't here for scenery, but for the beauty in it.
Thus, their popularity held steady, even attracting new gaming audiences.
But during gameplay, Elysia's uncharacteristic fumbles led to repeated misplays. Though fans didn't mind, she grew frustrated at costing teammates wins.
Apologizing for her "off day," she abruptly ended the stream.
"Elysia, what's wrong? You usually love streaming."
"Nothing. Just not in the mood for games today."
Pouting, Elysia stuck to her explanation.
"Alright, no games then."
Patting her head, Chang Yuan yielded unconditionally.
They retreated to the backyard to plan their garden. Elysia wanted peach trees—future fruit included.
But given growth cycles, Chang Yuan suggested buying mature trees. Waiting five years for fruit seemed excessive.
"Good point! One mature tree then. And here—I'll plant flowers! A whole sea of them~!"
"Won't that attract bees and bugs though?"
"Hmm, true. But you'll handle those, right? You wouldn't make a delicate girl catch insects~?"
Batting her lashes, Elysia weaponized cuteness.
Defeated, Chang Yuan accepted pest-control duties.
"Then it's settled! We'll plant the peach tree on an auspicious day~."
Months later...
Crash—!
At the sound of shattering porcelain, Chang Yuan rushed to the kitchen.
"Elysia! You okay?"
"Fine~ Just a slippery plate."
Though annoyed, Elysia smiled reassuringly.
"I told you to leave cooking to me. Why insist? Though soon, you won't be allowed in here anyway..."
His gaze drifted to her slightly rounded abdomen.
"Sigh. I wanted to cook for you while I still could. Opportunities will be scarce later."
Rubbing her belly, Elysia glowed with quiet joy.
Their recent hospital visit had confirmed her pregnancy—already over a month along. Soon, kitchen access would be restricted.
"Your safety matters more than meals. If you're this clumsy at one month, I dread what's next."
"Okay, okay! Today's the last time. Geez, since when were you the naggy one~?"
Covering her ears playfully, Elysia's grin betrayed her happiness.
"Deal. Oh, eat more fruit—and the folic acid supplements are here. Essential for pregnancy."
"Yes, yes. So annoying~! Just wait for dinner."
Shoving him out, Elysia resumed cooking—though not before studying her trembling hands.
Dinner was served cautiously, each dish carried with extra care.
"Dig in~!"
"Elysia, more carrots for nutrients. And drink the black chicken soup—I'll melt some Wu Ji Bai Feng pills later."
"Ugh, you."
As Chang Yuan piled her plate high, Elysia knew he'd bear partial blame for her weight gain.
(Though his portions were actually smaller—pregnancy required nutrient-dense, not voluminous, meals to avoid nausea.)
Post-dinner, Chang Yuan led Elysia on a garden stroll—outdoor walks risked exposing her to harsh smells, now harmful during pregnancy.
The two empty plots remained, their peach tree plans postponed due to her condition.
"We'll plant them after the baby arrives."
"Your call."
Chang Yuan deferred to his wife unconditionally.
Several more months later...
"Mmm~ Yuan, I'm hungry."
Post-yoga, Elysia rubbed her belly.
Chang Yuan immediately produced pregnancy-safe snacks, applying stretch-mark oil while handing her calcium supplements.
Since her pregnancy, he'd mastered every husbandly duty—from nutrient-packed meals and prenatal yoga to massages and foot baths.
Exhausting? Yes. But compared to Elysia's ordeal, his efforts were trivial.
(Initially, he'd opposed having a child. Yet Elysia's insistence ultimately led them here.)
"Listen up, kiddo. If you dare trouble your mom, your butt is grass once you're out."
Though the baby couldn't understand, Chang Yuan needed to vent—for Elysia's sake.
"Pfft! Keep that up, and they'll yank your oxygen tube when you're old~!"
"They wouldn't dare."
Chang Yuan believed rebellious kids just needed "correctional encouragement."
Finishing his tasks, he wiped sweat from his brow.
"Here. Really, I could've done this myself."
"Nope. You're already bearing enough. If I slacked off, what kind of husband would I be?"
Taking the towel, Chang Yuan stood firm—this was his responsibility.
Chapter 9: The Birth of a Daughter, Chang Ya
Unable to refuse Chang Yuan's care, Elysia could only accept his attentions.
Time passed swiftly, and soon the day of delivery arrived.
After checking into the hospital early, Chang Yuan paced nervously outside the delivery room.
"Whatever it takes, just let them be safe. That's all that matters."
For the first time, the staunch atheist found himself praying to a higher power.
As time crawled by, the red light above the door finally switched to green.
"Family may enter now. Mother and daughter are both healthy."
The doctor emerged briefly to deliver the news before hurrying to another surgery, leaving only nurses on duty.
Chang Yuan rushed in immediately—not to see the newborn, but straight to Elysia's bedside.
"Elysia, are you okay?"
"I'm fine Just a bit tired. The doctors said everything went smoothly—thanks to your care during the pregnancy?"
Aside from sweat-dampened hair clinging to her face, Elysia showed no signs of distress.
"Whew... That's good. Let me see our daughter."
Approaching the sterile incubator, Chang Yuan peered at the wrinkled newborn inside.
"Hmm... She might not look like much now, but with your genes, she'll grow into a beauty."
He frowned slightly at the unflattering first impression, but consoled himself that Elysia's looks would prevail—future potential overrode current aesthetics.
As if understanding her father's critique, the infant suddenly wailed.
"Waaah—!"
"No way she understood that?! What do I do now?"
"Sir, please step aside. We'll handle this."
The nurses, attentive due to Elysia's premium care package, gently lifted the swaddled baby, soothing her before placing her in Elysia's arms.
"Ma'am, it's time to feed. She's hungry."
"Mm. Yuan, what should we name her?"
"...Chang Ya. The first character from my name, the last from yours. Beginning with me, ending with you."
The answer came instantly—a name he'd pondered for months.
"Chang Ya? Lovely~ From today, you're Chang Ya. You must..." ...take care of your father when I'm gone.
Elysia whispered the last part silently.
After a brief stay, nurses transferred Elysia to a recovery room. Post-delivery protocols required hospitalization.
Throughout this period, Chang Yuan remained the dutiful husband, fulfilling every responsibility.
Two weeks later...
Discharged at last, Elysia returned home—now a family of three.
Chang Ya had opened her eyes on the second day, revealing faint pink irises inherited from her mother—subtle unless observed closely.
Between caring for Chang Ya and Elysia, their tree-planting plans were postponed again.
At the one-month celebration, Chang Ya grabbed a calligraphy brush during the traditional "抓周" (zhuā zhōu) fortune-telling ritual.
Thus, her parents decided to raise her as a classical cultivated lady—though they'd respect her preferences if she diverged later.
Months later...
While admiring flowers in their garden, Elysia suddenly collapsed, clutching her head.
"Elysia?! Hang on—I'm calling an ambulance!"
Panicked, Chang Yuan dialed 120 while cradling Chang Ya.
The EMTs arrived swiftly, rushing Elysia into emergency care.
After hours of treatment, her condition stabilized from critical to safe.
In the hospital room, Chang Yuan confronted the doctor.
"...We've never seen this before. It's rare enough to name the condition after her."
The doctor sighed heavily.
"Her bodily functions are irreversibly deteriorating—like paraquat poisoning. Untreatable. At this rate... months at most. We're powerless."
"Impossible! She showed no symptoms before! How?!"
Chang Yuan reeled from the diagnosis. Why now, after all this time?
"Yuan... I hid it from you."
"Why?!"
He turned to Elysia, betrayal and confusion warring in his voice.
"I wanted more time with you. If you knew, I'd be stuck here—I refused to spend my last days in a hospital."
"..."
Her quiet admission crushed him.
What did I do to deserve such devotion?
"Daddy, what's wrong with Mommy?"
Little Chang Ya, arms around his neck, asked innocently.
Unlike most children, she'd learned to speak early, comprehending simple concepts with startling clarity—a source of pride until now.
"Nothing, sweetheart. Mommy just... has to go on a long trip soon. You'll take good care of Daddy while I'm away, won't you?"
Even now, Elysia shielded her loved ones from suffering.
"When will Mommy come back?"
"I don't know. Maybe when you're older."
Turning to the doctor, Elysia requested: "I wish to be discharged."
"...Against medical advice, but I'll arrange it."
The doctor left to process the paperwork, defeated.
"In my remaining time... let me stay with you. Every second counts. Don't refuse me, Yuan."
Chapter 10: In the Garden Stand Peach Trees, Planted the Day My Love Departed
"Elysia... How could I possibly refuse you?"
For the first time, Chang Yuan wept helplessly.
No cure existed. Subjecting her to experimental treatments for minuscule hope was unthinkable.
"Waaah! Daddy don't cry!"
Seeing his tears, Chang Ya began wailing too.
Elysia weakly gestured for Chang Yuan to approach.
He obeyed, sitting beside her bed as her trembling hand wiped his cheeks.
"Don't cry. Look, you've upset Ya."
Her chiding glance softened the blow before she comforted Chang Ya. Gradually, both calmed.
Soon, the doctor returned with discharge papers.
"You may go home."
The words weighed heavily—a professional admitting defeat.
"Thank you."
Once able to walk steadily, Elysia sat upright.
"Yuan, help me with my shoes."
Extending her porcelain feet, she smiled tenderly.
Setting Chang Ya down briefly (the toddler could stand momentarily), Chang Yuan complied before reclaiming his daughter.
"Let's go home."
Arm in arm, Elysia leaned against him—though his heart remained leaden.
Homebound, Chang Yuan forbade Elysia from any exertion, hoping to prolong her time. Surprisingly, she acquiesced, spending days playing with Chang Ya instead.
Yet time brought only accumulating agony.
Chang Yuan watched Elysia's breathing grow labored, her cheeks hollowing. Even rounding up, she'd never reach 55kg again.
Witnessing his love's gradual decline tortured him beyond measure.
Then, one dawn...
"Yuan... I think... this is... the end."
Words came fractured now, each syllable a struggle.
Clutching her fiercely, Chang Yuan trembled violently, voiceless in his grief.
"So... warm... Won't feel this... again..."
Her quivering hand caressed his face one last time, making him hold her tighter.
"Bury me... under peach trees... in the garden... I want... to see them... bloom."
"Okay. I promise."
His voice cracked, but he was powerless to change fate.
Elysia's smile blossomed faintly.
"Don't... give up... on life... You have Ya... Raise her well... Don't rush... to find me... Who knows... what waits... beyond..."
"...I'll care for her. I will."
"Then... I'm at peace... Kiss me... like... the first time?"
No words—just action.
Where their first kiss had been soft and sweet, illness left this one parched, lacking plianess.
Yet to Chang Yuan, it still held warmth.
As seconds passed, he felt her breaths cease entirely.
"..."
He held her endlessly, until her body cooled.
(Chang Ya, precocious beyond her years, slept separately—spared this sight. Today was her birthday; a giftbox at the bedside held Elysia's final present, crafted through the night.)
Eventually, Chang Yuan released her.
At the hospital, the same doctor signed the death certificate.
Returning home, Chang Yuan dug a grave in their garden. Workers lowered the pink casket he'd prepared long ago.
Gathering Elysia from their bed, he carried her princess-style one final time, laying her inside.
"Still obsessed with pink, huh?"
Sealing the casket, he accepted this was goodbye.
After filling the grave, he collapsed onto the grass, childlike in his desolation.
Hours later, noticing the empty plots, he remembered his vow.
Ordering two near-mature peach trees online, he planted them himself—they'd bloom come spring in months.
As he sat mud-stained beneath the saplings, a classical poem surfaced in his memory:
"In the courtyard stands a loquat tree, planted the year my wife died."
Now revised:
"In the garden stand peach trees, planted the day my love departed."
Henceforth, this date would forever bittersweet—his wife's death anniversary, his daughter's birthday.
"Daddy, where's Mommy?"
The innocent query snapped him from grief.
"Remember? She went on that long trip. You'll understand when you're older."
Rising, he forced a smile, ruffling her hair.
He'd promised Elysia to cherish life's beauty.
"Hmph! She left on my birthday? Must've been super important! She owes me extra presents next time!"
Chapter 11: Peach Blossoms Fall in Spring, Upon My Head Like Your Caress
Chang Ya understood why her mother couldn't stay for her birthday.
After all, a child's heart is pure—incapable of suspecting ill intent from anyone. Of course, this was also thanks to her parents setting a good example. Otherwise, she might've grown into a little troublemaker.
"..."
Hearing Chang Ya's words, Chang Yuan shuddered.
In his eyes, it wouldn't be long before Elysia became the "bad mom" in Chang Ya's heart. After all, for every birthday after this, Elysia would never return.
"Alright, let's go. Dad will take you out to play."
"Mhm! Since Mom's not here, no one can stop us—I'm gonna eat so much ice cream!"
"Nope. You're still too young. Too much will hurt your stomach. Even if Mom's not here, I won't let you overindulge."
"Ugh, meanie Dad!"
By evening, only two people remained in the house: the birthday girl and her father.
As he sang "Happy Birthday," Chang Yuan brought out the gifts he'd prepared. Among them was a USB drive left behind by Elysia.
Plugging it into the computer, the projector screen displayed the first video—Elysia's face appearing before the father and daughter.
"Hi there, A-Ya! Today's your first birthday. I'm so sorry I had to leave because of some things. You'll forgive me, right?"
"Of course! Mom must've left for something really important!"
Chang Ya answered the image of Elysia on the screen as if she were really there.
"Then this is my gift to you—a birthday song sung by Mom herself. Happy birthday to you~♪"
As the message ended, Elysia's singing filled the room.
Listening to the song, Chang Yuan fought back tears as he cut the cake.
He divided it into three slices: one for Chang Ya, one for himself, and one placed where Elysia used to sit.
"Eat up. After this, it's time to brush your teeth and sleep."
"Mhm! It's so yummy… Too bad Mom can't have any."
Chang Ya ate her cake quietly, regretful that her mother couldn't share it.
"This cake… tastes so salty."
Muttering words only he could hear, Chang Yuan took bite after bite.
Once finished, he helped Chang Ya brush her teeth and tucked her into bed.
Months later, spring arrived.
In the backyard, peach blossoms bloomed in full glory, their pink petals painting the garden in delicate hues.
"Wow, so pretty… No wonder Mom loved them."
Sitting on a small stool, Chang Ya admired the flowers.
Meanwhile, Chang Yuan sat beside her, lost in thought. No one knew what was on his mind.
Then, a single peach blossom drifted down, landing softly atop his head.
"It's not even autumn… Why is it falling? Is it… you? Have you come back to see me?"
Plucking the flower, Chang Yuan stared at it blankly.
In that moment, idealism completely overtook his heart.
Cradling the blossom, he hurried inside and ordered a bottle of resin online, which arrived within two hours.
Then, he placed the peach blossom inside a small transparent box, preserving it forever in resin.
"I'll take this… as your return."
Gazing at the flower, Chang Yuan's eyes held nothing but that soft pink hue.
He didn't even notice when Chang Ya approached him.
"Dad! A peach blossom landed on my head too! Can you preserve this one for me as well?"
"...Okay."
Trembling, he took the flower and repeated the process.
At that moment, materialism was utterly defeated by idealism.
Days turned to months, months to years.
Chang Ya had since graduated middle school and entered high school.
Back in first grade, she'd already learned the truth: Elysia, her mother, hadn't gone somewhere far away—she'd passed away from illness.
But Chang Ya was strong, just like her mother. She didn't shed tears or dwell in the past. Instead, she moved forward, excelling in her studies and consistently ranking at the top of her class.
"Dad, I know Mom would understand. You've been single for over a decade… Have you ever thought about remarrying?"
"You little… If your mom were alive and heard you say that, she'd spank you silly. Don't bring it up again. My heart will only ever have room for one woman—your mother."
Glancing at his daughter, Chang Yuan knew she meant well.
A middle-aged man losing his wife and remaining single for over a decade… As his child, she worried about his mental health, afraid she might lose her only remaining family.
After all, in this world, she had no grandparents, no aunts or uncles—her parents were both orphans.
That was why Chang Ya feared it. Feared her father might succumb to illness and leave her alone. That was why she'd suggested something that went against her mother's wishes.
"Sigh… Well, if you've got the energy to scold me, your mental state must be fine. I won't bring it up again."
"You're the one with mental problems. I'm perfectly fine. …Ah, the peach tree's blooming again this year."
Shaking his head, Chang Yuan walked into the backyard.
Another spring, another bloom—yet the one who mattered most would never see it again.
"Yeah… The blossoms are out again."
Following her father into the garden, Chang Ya sighed softly.
When she was younger, she hadn't understood much. But now she realized: every one of her birthdays was also the anniversary of her mother's passing. She didn't know what to say.
"Alright, focus on your studies. I'm waiting to hold my grandkids."
Rubbing his chin, Chang Yuan looked forward to the day his family might grow.
But Chang Ya's next words nearly made him stumble.
"Um… Dad? What if I said… I like girls?"
"Cough!"
The reply made Chang Yuan choke on his own saliva.
Back then, he'd thought his wife's "preferences" were just a joke in the game. Turned out, he'd just been exceptional enough to "straighten" a certain someone out.
And now, that latent gene had resurfaced in his daughter.
"Do what you want. As long as you're happy, I don't care what the neighbors think. Your choices are yours alone. I'll always support you."
Chapter 12: The Her I Love—Even If It's the Real Her, I'll Never Betray the Her in My Memories
"Yay! Love you, Dad! Knew you'd be cool with it! Ehehe!"
Overjoyed that her father didn't mind her preferences, Chang Ya grinned ear to ear.
But Chang Yuan's dreams of grandchildren were officially dashed.
Time passed. After graduating, passing her exams, and securing a civil service job, Chang Ya married the girl she loved.
Same-sex marriage had been legalized three or four years prior.
As the sole witness to the union, Chang Yuan attended the wedding with mixed feelings.
Years flew by. Before he knew it, Chang Yuan was an old man on the brink of death.
On this day, he sensed his time had come.
Sitting in the garden, beneath the peach tree that had bloomed, fruited, and shed its petals countless times, he reflected on his life.
He'd experienced it all—partings, joys, sorrows. There were no regrets left.
"Elysia… I hope you've been waiting. I'll be with you soon."
As the sun set, Chang Yuan's breathing slowed… then stopped.
Then, everything faded. All that remained was an endless white void.
"Success. Now, all that's left is to replace everyone in his memories… with me."
A voice echoed through the space as Chang Yuan's eyes snapped open.
"Oh, you're awake, my dear Yuan~?"
Hearing the voice, he turned—and saw someone achingly familiar yet strangely distant.
Familiar because, in his memories, this was the person who'd accompanied him all his life. Distant because something felt… off.
"Elysia… Senti?"
For some reason, he almost called out another name—Elysia. But in an instant, his memories overwrote it with "Senti."
"It's me, Yuan. Here's the truth: supernatural powers exist. But I'm dead—or at least, my body is. Please… avenge me."
Then, the Herrscher of Sentience fed him a perfectly crafted lie. Flawless. No holes, no inconsistencies.
So Chang Yuan trusted her without question.
"Don't worry. I'll make them pay."
Clenching his fists, he swore to destroy those who'd hurt his wife.
When his consciousness returned to his body, Chang Yuan stood before Aponia and the others, face blank.
"Oh? You succeeded?"
"Yeah. I killed her. Let's celebrate."
Faking a smile, he nodded at Aponia.
But she was suspicious. Chang Yuan wasn't a psychic MANTIS—how could he defeat the Herrscher of Sentience?
She prepared to probe his mind—but a pink blur was faster, lunging to hug him.
"Yuan! You're okay! I was so worried!"
"!!!"
Hearing that name, Chang Yuan's heart skipped a beat.
But his memories quickly suppressed the tremor. He hugged her back.
"I'm fine."
"..."
Seeing nothing amiss, Aponia hesitated.
Then, a Fire Moth soldier rushed in.
"Honored ones! We found a Herrscher's corpse outside! Based on the evidence, it's the 8th Herrscher's remains!"
With the body confirmed, Aponia's doubts vanished.
If the corpse was here, the Herrscher couldn't possibly be alive… right?
So she chalked it up to a miracle and moved on.
At the celebratory banquet, Chang Yuan drank with Elysia before leaving the base.
This struck "Friend" Vill-V as odd. Normally, he'd escort Elysia back to her dorm—not wander outside for… other activities.
"Aponia, something's wrong. Gather the psychic MANTISes. We're following them—full mental cloaking."
"Understood."
No questions asked. Aponia assembled the team.
Meanwhile, Chang Yuan was acting on the Herrscher's orders.
She'd sensed his earlier hesitation. Afraid Elysia might trigger his true memories, she decided to eliminate the threat first.
She also scanned for pursuers—but Vill-V's team was prepared. The Herrscher detected nothing.
Once sufficiently far from base, Chang Yuan led Elysia into an alley.
"W-Wait, here? Yuan, isn't this… a bit inappropriate?"
Blushing, Elysia lowered her head—hiding the calculation in her eyes. The Herrscher missed it.
"Heh. I want something… exciting. You won't deny me, will you, Elysia?"
"Of course not. If it's you… anything's okay."
In that moment, Elysia's gaze hardened.
Chang Yuan embraced her. His hand slid up her back—stopping over her heart.
A dagger materialized in his grip.
But as he struck, Elysia shoved him away.
"You're not Yuan. Who are you?!"
Voice icy, she aimed the 2nd Divine Key at him.
"Tch. Saw through me that easily? But I am Chang Yuan—here to make you pay. You killed Senti. Now, you'll die!"
He charged. Lightning crackled around the 3rd Divine Key's dagger-form.
Unwilling to harm him, Elysia dodged frantically.
"Aponia, now! Full mental assault!"
At "Friend" Vill-V's command, Aponia's team unleashed their psychic might.
But it barely fazed him. Channeling the 3rd Key's lightning, Chang Yuan electrified every cell in his body—breaking the mental hold.
Elysia, thinking him restrained, froze—
—and the dagger plunged into her chest.
Wide-eyed, she stared in disbelief. The man who'd loved her… now sought her life.
Blood gushed, coating his hand. Even now, with the chance to kill him, she couldn't.
Trembling, she raised her hand—cupping his cheek.
"Yuan… I don't know why you're doing this… but I still can't hurt you. Though… it seems I can't keep walking with you. Sorry… This is Elysia's first… and last… broken promise."
Feeling the warmth of her blood, Chang Yuan shuddered.
Something felt… missing. But he couldn't grasp it.
Then, the Herrscher shrieked in his mind:
"Now, Yuan! Unleash the 3rd Key's lightning! Destroy her completely!"
Her plan was ruined. But she'd drag Elysia down with her.
Yet this time, Chang Yuan hesitated.
The Herrscher hadn't called him "Yuan" just now. But Elysia had—and it stirred something deep inside.
His instincts screamed that he'd regret this forever.
So he recalled his earlier trick.
Carefully withdrawing the dagger, he stabbed himself—flooding his body with lightning.
But his memories didn't return. He amped the voltage—until the entire street blazed with purple light.
Dark clouds gathered overhead. Rain loomed.
Then, bloodied hands cradled his face.
"Yuan… I knew it. You're still you. You've just forgotten… So let me… remind you."
Enduring the searing pain, Elysia pressed her forehead to his. Pink energy flared.
Memories surged back. The false images in his mind shattered—replaced by Elysia's true face.
Realization struck. He'd tried to kill the one he loved most.
Horrified, he dropped the 3rd Key—pulling Elysia into a crushing embrace.
"Sorry, I—"
"Don't apologize. Remembering is enough… That's enough."
"Damn you! I was so close! You'll all die!"
Enraged, the Herrscher seized full control.
The earlier lightning had weakened Chang Yuan's nerves. She overpowered him easily.
"And a reminder—our minds are linked! Kill me, and he suffers too!"
With that threat, she snatched the 3rd Key and attacked.
The others faltered. If they killed the Herrscher, what would happen to Chang Yuan?
"Aponia, don't hesitate! Kill her! You're all more important than me!"
Briefly regaining control, Chang Yuan roared—before being silenced again.
Torn, the group wavered—until "Friend" Vill-V made the call.
"All psychic MANTISes! Eliminate the Herrscher of Sentience!"
No more hesitation. Aponia and the others unleashed their full power.
Without her body, the Herrscher was no match. Her consciousness crumbled.
She'd thought her corpse would fool them. But she'd underestimated their bond—how well they knew Chang Yuan. The slightest oddity had doomed her.
"Curse you all!"
With a final scream, the Herrscher vanished—and Chang Yuan collapsed.
Rushed back to base, the top medical minds examined him. Their verdict:
Alive… but not quite living.
Confused, Elysia approached as he woke.
"Yuan! Are you okay? Does anything hurt?"
"Uh… Who are you? Where's my wife and daughter? Can you help me find them?"
"…What?"
Elysia froze.
Then, Mobius pulled her aside.
"The Herrscher's mental link damaged his psyche. His memories are gone—except fragments. The only ones he believes in.
But the faces are blurred. He doesn't remember you. Just that he has a wife and daughter."
"No… That can't be…"
Elysia refused to accept it. But reality was unyielding.
"Um… Could you help me find them? They'll worry if I'm gone too long."
Shoes on, Chang Yuan scratched his head awkwardly.
Mobius opened her mouth—then left wordlessly.
Only Elysia remained.
"Does she… not want to help?"
"No, she's just… like that. I'll help you look."
Her voice cracked. Tears fell—but she turned away before he could see.
"You're so kind. Thank you."
The polite gratitude shattered her.
From then on, Elysia tried everything to jog his memory.
But Chang Yuan, loyal to the wife and daughter in his mind, kept his distance from all other women.
The cruelest tragedy: the one you love forgets you—yet remembers loving you. But the "you" they love is gone. So they remain devoted to that ghost… forever estranged from the real you.
This was Elysia's torment.
Following the script of his past life, she fought alongside him until the Herrscher of the End.
She sacrificed herself—becoming a Stigma for him.
Even after reawakening in the next era, she kept trying.
But even when Kiana became the Herrscher of the End, nothing changed.
Chang Yuan's love was too pure. Too steadfast. Even memoryless, he wouldn't "betray" the her in his mind for the real her.
Eventually, even MANTISes met their end. Though immortality was possible, Chang Yuan refused.
If his wife and daughter were gone, he wouldn't linger.
On November 11th, he closed his eyes for the last time.
Elysia arranged his funeral—burying him in the woods where they'd first met.
History records that Elysia never loved another. Grief consumed her. She died of a broken heart—her final wish to rest beside Chang Yuan.