Honkai Impact: I, The Herrscher of Ice, Am Loved By Players

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Reality often enjoys playing tricks on you.

Ana had prepared herself to confront Mobius, but before she could reach the dimly lit domain where Mobius resided, fate presented her with an unexpected surprise.

In the Twilight Forest, Ana had yet to leave this vast area, comparable in size to the Forgotten City. Both regions embodied a shared understanding among the Heroic Spirits.

Eden and Su chose to reside here, primarily because they preferred it over other places. In reality, this part of the Elysian Realm is relatively peaceful, not requiring combat as typically depicted in games.

If anything, it serves more akin to Pardo's shop—a resting spot.

Ana leisurely strolled through, undisturbed by sudden Honkai monsters that might otherwise interrupt her serene walk, allowing her to appreciate the surrounding beauty.

From afar, she spotted a distinctive tree—the Red Sakura Tree.

Fuyō, or Red Sakura, is a tree unique to the Elysian Realm, specifically from the pre-Civilization era. Similar to cherry blossoms of this age but with notable differences, Fuyō also holds significance as the native flower of Sakura's homeland among the Pyrochlesian Heroes.

The unexpected presence of this Red Sakura Tree indicated—indeed, just before it, a graceful figure stood silently, gazing at the tree.

"..."

Seeing her silhouette, Ana was slightly taken aback before inwardly sighing.

It made sense.

The truth that the Heroic Spirits had gone to great lengths to conceal was already known to this Sakura.

In hindsight, it wasn't surprising.

Sakura was an assassin, a killer, and individuals in such professions often possess keen intuition. Additionally, the deliberate actions of the Heroic Spirits inadvertently left traces and clues behind.

Moreover, over 50,000 years, it's possible someone might have accidentally slipped up at some point.

Perhaps everyone was aware but chose not to acknowledge it, maintaining a clumsy facade of secrecy.

Of course, these were merely Ana's speculations, not necessarily the true reality.

"Welcome to the trial, successor."

As Ana momentarily lost focus, Sakura's voice suddenly appeared behind her. Startled, Ana realized the figure standing by the Red Sakura Tree had vanished without a trace, leaving only a chilling breeze at her back, yet strangely, she felt a sense of familiarity from it.

In the blink of an eye, Sakura had moved behind Ana. While part of it could be attributed to Ana's distraction, it clearly demonstrated Sakura's formidable strength.

It was truly remarkable, as expected of Sakura—no Herrscher, not even Kevin, could stand against her.

Even Ana would have to unleash her full potential if they ever crossed paths in reality. The terrifying combination of blade techniques capable of slicing through space and speed transcending time was awe-inspiring.

"My name is Sakura, existing here solely to pass on Shunra's skills to future generations."

"Hello, it's an honor to meet you. My name is Ana Schariac, but please just call me Ana."

"No need for introductions. A Herrscher entering the Elysian Realm... This is information every Heroic Spirit must immediately know," Sakura replied matter-of-factly.

"I agree," Ana nodded in concurrence.

"Especially when it's a unique Herrscher well-acquainted with your kind," Ana added, involuntarily recalling the story of Jizo Mitama, the Key of Corruption. Unfortunately, she never witnessed those events firsthand, as at that time, she was still stationed at Schicksal Headquarters.

"On another note, I also have some news that might interest you."

"We who exist here are merely fleeting remnants of past lives..."

"It's related to the Herrscher of Corruption from the previous civilization era."

Sakura paused, holding back her initial response.

"What I mentioned earlier was merely a courteous remark shared with every successor. Please understand..."

As Sakura earnestly explained, Ana couldn't help but find it amusing—this was what having a true big sister felt like. Despite being just a Memory Fragment and knowing that their conversation held no real significance, she still yearned for news about her little sister.

"Hmm, the story might be quite long..." Ana began recounting everything she knew about Higokumaru, indeed a lengthy and somewhat convoluted tale, interspersed with her own interpretations.

"Higokumaru... It seems Miss Yae Sakura was truly remarkable herself. Unfortunately, both she and Miss Kallen were caught up in these events." Upon hearing the full account, Sakura spoke slowly, her voice carrying a hint of apology, as if taking responsibility for her mischievous younger sibling.

"Well, I wouldn't say it exactly like that," Ana scratched her head, smiling wryly.

"In this way, Rin also helped Yae Sakura seek vengeance for her little sister, even though the outcome wasn't ideal. At least there's no lingering regret."

"And it was ultimately Yae Sakura's own choice."

Yes, they didn't necessarily need to become Jizo Mitama at the end. It was Yae Sakura who chose to bring closure to everything, while she and Higokumaru would forever reside within the sakura-hued Samsara Stigmata space inside the Jizo Mitama.

"What a pity..." Sakura remarked, glancing at Ana before shaking her head.

Ana understood what she meant; perhaps she felt some remorse for not witnessing the events firsthand with the Jizo Mitama. Naturally, the true regret might have been not being able to apologize to Rin.

Although, Rin likely didn't require Sakura's apology anymore.

"Don't worry, next time—next time, I'll definitely bring the Jizo Mitama here," Ana hastily reassured her. She couldn't bear seeing such regrets linger. While she had no immediate solution this time, as plans often fall short against unforeseen circumstances, next time—next time, she vowed to return to Saint Freya Academy and find the Jizo Mitama.

"Don't worry about it, Miss Ana."

Yae Sakura lifted her head, revealing a faint smile on her face. Her smile was equally captivating as Elysia's and Eden's, yet carried a poignant beauty that only intensified Ana's feelings of guilt.

"Knowing these things from you is more than enough."

"Higokumaru... Rin, much like Fu Hua, has lived her own life, fulfilling my wish to some extent."

"It seems you've met Fu Hua recently?"

Ana realized with a start. Considering how swiftly Yae Sakura became aware of Fu Hua's situation, perhaps her appearance here was indeed intentional, specifically waiting for Ana?

"Yes, we briefly conversed earlier, but she didn't share this information with me. It appears, in this era, you truly hold a unique position, in various senses."

Sakura nodded in agreement.

"Well, let's set aside those thoughts for now. Please accept this Shunra engraving first; I assume you won't require any gradual approach."

"Your Authority grants you the world's most extraordinary reaction speed, combined with the power you displayed against Kalpas. The Shunra engraving should merely enhance your abilities further."

"Indeed," Ana nodded in agreement. With her wind Authority, any incoming attack would be detected by the surrounding fluid, granting her instantaneous perception without needing to predict or anticipate moves.

Thus, for Ana, Shunra's engraving truly served as an embellishment upon her existing capabilities.

"However, more than the engraving, I'm keen on learning your swordsmanship, Miss Sakura."

"Swordsmanship cannot be perfected overnight, Miss Ana. I believe you understand this well."

"Of course, but there are always prodigies in this world." Ana chuckled softly. For her, mastering Sakura's complete swordsmanship wasn't necessary; she only needed to grasp its principles and how they could enhance her own Authorities.

Even embellishments can vary in significance. To Kevin, swordsmanship held little meaning. However, Ana saw value in it. Moreover, if a sword technique capable of freezing time were combined with an Authority that could freeze space, then...

Even Ana dared not fully imagine the possibilities.

"Alright, if this is truly your wish, I will do my utmost to fulfill it," Sakura said softly. Although she didn't fully understand Ana's desire, she chose to respect it as a gesture of gratitude. After all, Sakura couldn't foresee that in the future, Ana would master the Authority of Ice.

With the boost from such an overpowered ability, Ana was destined to surpass Sakura.

Learning swordsmanship did not pose much difficulty for Ana, thanks to her foundational training. As a descendant of a Western noble family, she had been exposed to various disciplines since childhood.

The riding spear was not the only skill she possessed; her proficiency with spears merely stood out among them.

Moreover, Sakura's sword technique, capable of seemingly freezing time, although named as a swordsmanship secret, closely resembled the Taixuan Sword Qi. However, compared to the sword god's mastery, Sakura's technique was significantly more challenging to grasp.

As a result, the requirement for swordsmanship practice was somewhat reduced. The need arose primarily due to Sakura's own limitation; she could not yet integrate this move seamlessly into other skills.

For Sakura, this secret technique represented the pinnacle of swordsmanship achievement.

Similar to Kiana mastering Taixuan Sword Qi, Ana swiftly grasped the essence of Shunra. Although she didn't demonstrate it, Sakura confirmed her readiness without hesitation.

Perhaps this is the privilege reserved for protagonists.

The Taixuan Sect disciples, including Cheng Lixue, had been stuck at crucial points with no progress for years, yet Kiana succeeded where they couldn't.

"With that, your training is complete. Continue on your path; I believe you will accomplish what we were unable to achieve."

After this experience, Sakura was thoroughly impressed by Ana. Gaining such recognition from Sakura was akin to earning the approval of Kalpas, reflecting its considerable difficulty.

"Thank you for your guidance, Sakura. I will succeed," Ana responded solemnly.

"I initially wanted you to keep an eye on the doctor, but now I can rest assured. May your journey be free of worries and your martial path flourish, Miss Ana." With utmost seriousness, Sakura bowed respectfully before quietly turning to leave.

Ana watched as Sakura departed, then took one last glance at the blossom cherry tree before heading towards the outskirts of the Twilight Forest.

Having spent nearly a day with Sakura, Ana's remaining time grew even more scarce.

At the edge of the Twilight Forest, near its boundary with Mobius's dim and lightless realm, Ana spotted a familiar figure.

"Hi there, I've been waiting for you."

Indeed, it was Ellie, who had been patiently anticipating her arrival.

"You've been through much, Ellie. Thank you," Ana said softly, stepping forward to embrace Elysia warmly.

"Mm-hmm, Ana's embrace is as comforting as ever. And I must say, you've certainly had quite an eventful couple of days," Elysia smiled.

"Even as Memory Fragments, you have every right to know what transpires beyond the Garden of Eden, especially matters closely connected to your identities," Ana stated firmly, looking directly at Elysia.

"As you well know, I never see any of you merely as Memory Fragments."

"Yes, of course I know that! That's precisely why I adore you. Your kindness and sincerity are truly endearing!"

"I prefer 'love' over 'adore.'"

"Oh my, I didn't expect you to sigh, Ana. Alright then, let me cherish you properly..."

Elysia leaned closer, seemingly intent on making good on her words.

But Ana remained unfazed.

"Oh dear, I was just joking. Did I startle you?"

"In fact, I wish you weren't."

"Don't be so straightforward; you might make me act strange too, and then you'll never leave the Elysian Realm."

However, Ana remained completely unfazed by Ellie's words.

"Isn't it already too late for that?"

"All right, all right, let's stop joking around and get back to business!"

In a rare occurrence, Elysia conceded this round, choosing compromise and changing the subject instead. Ana didn't press her advantage further, knowing when to call it quits.

"I assume I don't need any additional trials, right?" Ana raised an eyebrow at Elysia.

"Oh, I couldn't bear to test you myself."

"Hmm, your abilities have my full confidence indeed; no extra trials are necessary." With a slight blush, Elysia quickly regained her composure and calmly continued. She stepped aside, revealing the Anchor Point gate leading to the dimly lit realm.

"Dr. Mobius is quite adorable, but please don't bully her, or else..." Elysia paused, then flashed a radiant smile. "Or else, she just might fall under your sway, you know? In a certain sense, you do seem like the most suitable partner for her."

"I'm not into lolis," Ana replied with a frown.

Ana frowned slightly but acknowledged Elysia's point. For Mobius, if she were indeed considering such matters, Ana... might truly be her best match.

It wasn't mere self-promotion; it was simply stating a fact.

"Oh dear, saying that might upset our darling Dr. Mobius!"

"Go on, go ahead!"

"Wishing you both a delightful time with Dr. Mobius, just don't let her completely bewitch you, or I'd be heartbroken."

"Don't worry, my devotion to you remains unwavering."

"Hmm, I doubt Ana has only said this to me, right?"

"Haha, that's not important."