Herta: I Was Here First / Stronger Than a City Wall Is the Will

Muttering something to himself, Herta pulled down the brim of his wide hat and headed towards the cabin.

When the Herta arrived, it found that only Ruan Mei was there; Gwen had disappeared, and the Simulated Universe showed only one logged-in user.

"How did you manage to get him involved?"

Seeing that Gwen had actually gone in on his own initiative, the Herta couldn't help but ask with some curiosity.

Moreover, she was the one who arrived first, and she was the one who introduced the two of them. How come it seems like she's the outsider?

"It's just to relieve him of his worries."

Ruan Mei gently shook her head, her fingertips flying across the screen as she recorded various data.

"Don't rush, take me with you."

Seeing that Ruan Mei was too busy to pay attention to him, Herta immediately stepped forward and joined in.

She was also curious about what kind of commotion Gwen could create in the Simulated Universe.

The Herta will never know that when Ruan Mei said she was eliminating any worries, she meant that Gwen should not hesitate to violently resist any sensitive Remembrance.

She knew he had that ability.

In the Simulated Universe, Gwen has already begun his rampage.

Ruan Mei stated that this was only to test Gwen's basic skills, so no "main quest" was set for the time being, allowing Gwen to perform as he pleased.

And that was indeed Ruan Mei's true purpose—

She did know a lot about Gwen, but it was mostly limited to Gwen's verbal descriptions.

Now that she had the opportunity, Ruan Mei naturally hoped to obtain the most detailed information possible in order to advance the experiment.

She was eagerly anticipating whether Gwen, who possessed numerous powers from another world and had transformed from a frail ordinary person into a savior, could help her achieve her goal, just as they had mentioned in their past casual conversations...

Chapter 874 Herta: I Was Here First

Why do you feel that you are not Pathstrider?

In the Simulated Universe, a large question mark appeared above the chibi-style image that Herta had prepared for herself, almost materializing her doubts.

Because Gwen resisted having his Remembrance read, Ruan Mei adjusted some of the code and programs in the Simulated Universe, no longer directly reading Gwen's Remembrance, but instead loading simulated enemy data recorded in the database.

By reading surface information permitted by Gwen during combat, the enemy's form, level, and strength are gradually replaced, allowing Gwen to conduct a combat simulation as realistic as possible.

Therefore, although the initial battles initially felt very jarring to Gwen, this jarring feeling gradually faded over time, allowing Gwen to become more fully engaged in them.

Although both are combat simulations, the Simulated Universe is far more realistic than the combat simulation room and the Elysian Realm Schicksal.

Even with Gwen ignoring or even blocking some of his senses, the battle already bears a certain resemblance to real combat.

After a series of battles, Gwen arrived at this resting area and met the Herta, who had been waiting for him.

Of course, it's not the Herta itself or a puppet, but rather the cloud-like image seen during dialogue in the game.

After providing feedback on his user experience to the Herta for technical improvements, Gwen also inquired about the Pathstrider.

Although it is often said that wise people seek strength within themselves, objectively speaking, strength is strength, without distinction of high or low, noble or base. The more strength one has, the more confidence one has.

As for destiny, a force that seems to have a deeper connection with the world itself, it would be best to understand it as much as possible.

Upon hearing Gwen's question, "How to become Pathstrider," the Herta issued a somewhat out-of-control interrogation.

Am I?

Seeing the Herta's reaction, Gwen began to doubt whether he was truly Pathstrider—

The problem is that he didn't feel like he had received a glimpse from the Star God or gained any new power.

"You...

All right."

The Herta opened its mouth as if to say something, but then, considering the unusual things about Gwen, it sighed and instead said—

"In a narrow sense, regardless of whether one has faith in the Star God, whether intentionally or unintentionally, anyone who embarks on the path of destiny governed by the Star God can be called Pathstrider."

They followed their destiny with their own will, drawing strength from it like shattered droplets.

From a combat perspective, Pathstrider is someone who can use Imaginary Energy to achieve various effects.

From this perspective, you undoubtedly fit this definition.

And according to data from the Simulated Universe, certain things you displayed in battle did indeed resonate with your destiny—

This is something that ordinary Pathstrider cannot accomplish.

In conclusion, you've long been Pathstrider, do you understand?

"...

From this perspective, it certainly seems to be the case.

Gwen pondered for a moment, then slowly nodded—

Honkai Energy is essentially a variant of Imaginary Energy, and it does fit that definition, but...

"It's perfectly normal if you're wondering if you truly feel a sense of this—"

Noticing Gwen's hesitation, the Herta added—

"In fact, for most people, there is no clear boundary when they become Pathstrider— "

Reality isn't a game or a movie; there's no animated CGI.

"Or rather... there aren't that many."

A soft, emerald light appeared, and Ruan Mei's voice rang in Gwen's ear—

"Occasionally, when someone becomes Pathstrider, they may receive the glimpse of the star god because of their firm will or extraordinary achievements, but that is ultimately a very small minority."

Even so, many of these few people have unclear Remembrance of it and lack a sense of its reality.

"Moreover, although the general trend of one's destiny is constantly expanding, there are always invisible boundaries."

The behavior of intelligent life cannot possibly fall entirely within this boundary.

Herta wasn't surprised that Ruan Mei had spoken up, and casually added,

"Therefore, it is not uncommon for a person to embark on multiple paths in life."

Once a person masters the use of Imaginary Energy, even if they initially embark on Path of the Hunt, it will not affect their ability to save lives and heal the wounded as Pathstrider on Path of Abundance.

Regardless of the initial reason for acquiring this ability, as long as one is practicing one's destiny, one can be categorized as Pathstrider.

Like that little girl who followed the Stellaris Train, even though her own goal was unclear, because the star core within her could utilize Imaginary Energy, she could be considered Pathstrider. It's just that because the destiny she was pursuing was unclear, the abilities she gained didn't have a clear bias.

"I see...

I was being narrow-minded.

Gwen nodded in realization, silently revising his understanding.

"Now that you understand, how about something bigger?"

Seeing that Gwen understood, the Herta's voice held a hint of amusement—

"For example, try using the ability you used on that bug before in Simulated Universe?"

Don't worry, I've adjusted the program to ensure it won't record your strength, only the target's reaction.

Even a genius like the Herta couldn't remain indifferent to Gwen's Star Explosion.

Or rather, it was precisely because she was a genius that she paid more attention to Gwen's peculiar behavior and wanted to understand the underlying principles.

"Herta— "

Ruan Mei's soft voice rose a few decibels, making one imagine her delicate brows furrowing slightly—

"The Simulated Universe is still in the trial phase. Gwen's power is very special. If anything goes wrong, it will not be good for either our experiment or for him."

"Tsk..."

His attempt to seduce Gwen was abruptly interrupted by his own teammates. Herta grimaced slightly, muttering in annoyance,

Do you two know each other?

I was here first, okay?

"No, actually she arrived first..."

Gwen silently refuted the Herta's words, his expression remaining calm. After a moment of contemplation, he said...

"Ms. Herta, may I also see the impact of my actions on my destiny in the Simulated Universe?"

I want to try and see if I can grasp the key points more keenly.

"It is possible, but Simulated Universe is ultimately just Simulated Universe and is different from the real world."

Perhaps a better choice is to fully experience the power you possess right now.

Although you haven't attracted the attention of the Star Gods, according to the program, you have now embarked on a destiny that includes, but is not limited to, the Hunt, destruction, Abundance, Preservation, and Harmony.

Careful reflection may help you better navigate your destiny in the real world.

Herta offered his sincere advice.

Chapter 875 What's stronger than city walls is willpower

"Thank you for your suggestion. I'll use this time to fully experience my current state."

Gwen thanked him sincerely.

"You're welcome. Remember to help me test the Simulated Universe more often."

Herta replied casually.

Herta has always been full of enthusiasm for people and things that interest it.

"Good."

Gwen nodded in agreement. Although it was just a virtual battle, the Simulated Universe developed by several geniuses could still provide him with considerable assistance, which could be considered as getting something for free.

"If you encounter any problems along the way, feel free to call me anytime. I'll be right here waiting for you."

Ruan Mei's voice remained as soft as before, as moving as a spring breeze.

"So you two knew each other all along, didn't you?"

Hearing Ruan Mei's words, Herta couldn't help but complain.

"Oh...

"Ms. Herta, leaving blank space is also a form of art."

Gwen said with a smile.

"Alright, alright, you're family, so I, as an outsider, won't bother you any longer."

Herta's words remain sharp, but her image is gradually fading.

After the Herta left, Gwen didn't speak again, and neither did Ruan Mei. It was unclear whether she was watching him from outside or organizing the useful data brought back by the Simulated Universe.

When I opened my eyes, all I saw was an unfamiliar ceiling.

Before Gwen could even sit up, a fragrant breeze had already drifted over—

"Woke up?

Would you like something to eat?

I just made it myself.

Ruan Mei's voice was melodious and pleasant, carrying a warm, everyday quality, as if they had been close friends for many years...

Well, it seems that's indeed the case.

"Then I shall respectfully accept your offer."

Gwen sat up with a smile, his gaze naturally sweeping from bottom to top over her dazzlingly white thighs, down to the alluring curves beneath her tight cheongsam, and finally settling on her gentle, smiling face.

"Here, see if it suits your taste?"

Ruan Mei lifted the tableware aside, and with her slender, fair fingers, she picked up a piece of pastry with a faint floral fragrance and brought it to Gwen's lips.

"No need for that, I can do it myself."

Gwen didn't stand on ceremony, opened his mouth and swallowed the delicate pastry. Before Ruan Mei could take another, he got up and went to the table.