Chapter 26: Insight And Appointment

(Note: This chapter contains author's strong subjective opinions about Scaramouche.)

...

After buying some favorite items from the system shop, Liam opened his attribute panel.

[Owner: Liam Norvelle]

[Age: 20 (Fixed)]

[Items:Judgement Of Shamash, Seven Thunders of Retribution, Infinite Intimidator, Endgem, Core of the Void Herrscher, Core of the Ice Herrscher, Nectar of the Eternal Garden, Luxurious Sea Lord, Honkai: Beyond Destiny, Instant Noodles with Cute Girl Flavor 6, Limited Edition Homu Doll, Mei's Lunch3, Endless Wine Jug!]

[Identity: Void Herrscher, Ice Herrscher, End Herrscher (Not Awakened)]

[Abilities: Swordsmanship: One Heart Instant Slash, Master Chef]

[Void Herrscher Core: 75/100, Ice Herrscher Core: 40/100, Endgem: 8/100]

[Imaginary Points: +2560]

[Strength Evaluation: Considered a decent strong figure in Teyvat, can explode with power anytime!]

Liam nodded at the sight. Although his current strength wasn't enough to deal with Scaramouche alone, his excellent equipment ensured that Scaramouche, who originally had the upper hand, was now the one being chased by him.

Moreover, Liam wasn't overly worried about his strength. Apart from the fact that his power would see a rocket-like increase when the development of the Void Herrscher Core reached 100%, his current relationships with the Shogun meant that if he encountered danger, he could just shout, and the Shogun would come over and treat the enemies like wild monsters to be slain.

Furthermore, soon he would have a super powerful ally, Jyahnar. At that point, it wouldn't just be small fries; even if Heavenly principles personally intervened, he could just call Jyahnar to give Heavenly principles two slaps, and Heavenly principles would have to take it quietly!

However, he hadn't done anything too outrageous, having always been honest and upright, so he probably wouldn't attract Heavenly principles' attention!

Liam had always behaved appropriately, so he shouldn't attract the attention of the Heavenly Principles. Reflecting on his past actions, the most notable were removing the "wear and tear" from Ei and reviving Raiden Makoto. But the story of Genshin Impact suggested the Heavenly Principles were currently dormant, so there wasn't much to worry about. Otherwise, even the Tsaritsa wouldn't dare to make a move.

Realizing this, Liam relaxed considerably. He genuinely didn't want to clash with the Heavenly Principles now, as he wasn't strong enough. Only by activating his Herrscher core and becoming a true Herrscher would he stand a chance.

He stopped dwelling on these thoughts. Thanks to the Endgem, he wasn't overly worried about his safety. Under the guidance of the Dean, Liam had grown into someone with relatively normal values. Thus, even with newfound power, he wouldn't become arrogant.

This was why he disliked Scaramouche. He understood Scaramouche's tragic past but didn't see it as a valid reason for causing harm to others. If tragedy justified malice, what about the struggles of other characters? Were they wreaking havoc?

If Scaramouche had perished, Liam might have felt some pity. But now, seeing Scaramouche alive and well, studying in Sumeru, Liam couldn't help but think of those Scaramouche had harmed. What did they do wrong? Their once beautiful families were shattered.

All because of a perceived "betrayal," Scaramouche took out his resentment on ordinary people. What kind of misanthropy was this?

And what was Scaramouche's "betrayal"? Being abandoned by Ei? Manipulated by the Doctor? Losing a terminally ill friend? The first two were understandable, but the last? That's beyond anyone's control.

Even the Seven Archons lost dear friends. If they couldn't change it, why did Scaramouche think he was special?

Scaramouche's actions weren't justifiable by these reasons. The story didn't give him fitting punishment; he got away too lightly, as if his deeds were minor. This disparity in consequences fueled players' anger, similar to the resentment towards Grand Sage Azar for disproportionate punishment.

Had Scaramouche received appropriate retribution like Vasya, people might view him differently, much like how Dio fans admire Dio yet still want him defeated. Unfortunately, things didn't turn out that way, and Scaramouche became despised, amplified by the actions of some extreme fans.

Liam's dislike for Scaramouche partly stemmed from those extreme fans. Seeing their provocative comments in videos disgusted him.

Sometimes, unable to tolerate these comments, Liam would argue with those fans. However, not being eloquent, he often found himself outmatched, which intensified his dislike for Scaramouche.

That's why mentioning Scaramouche made Liam instinctively repulsed. Acknowledging Scaramouche's tragic past didn't stop Liam from wanting him gone. Scaramouche should apologize to those he hurt.

If Scaramouche had exited gracefully like the Queen from Honkai Impact 3rd, his reputation might not have suffered so much. Timing and fate played a role.

As a person with normal values, despite occasional erratic behavior, Liam was clear on right and wrong.

Gaining the Herrscher cores and knowing the method to become a Herrscher, Liam chose a slow and steady approach, not letting power corrupt him. Ensuring his safety, Liam could be considered a good person.

Honestly, if Liam had arrived centuries earlier and met the newly created Scaramouche, he might have tried to save him. But now, it was too late.

Standing by the window, Liam pondered for a long time, watching the bustling streets of Inazuma. He sighed and collected his thoughts; there were many issues in Inazuma that needed addressing.

Liam felt fortunate. Despite the sudden transmigration, he had the system, which gave him the power to change everything.

After a brief moment of melancholic reflection on life, Liam composed himself and returned to his usual demeanor. Reflecting on life occasionally helps relieve stress and improve one's mood.

This method was taught to him by the Dean, who claimed that his longevity and vitality at 100 years old were due to maintaining a positive mindset. Unfortunately, the Dean passed away the following year.

Thinking of the Dean, Liam shook his head with a rueful smile. He remembered the doctor's words: the Dean's body showed no signs of disease, a condition even many young, healthy individuals couldn't boast. The Dean had simply died of old age.

At that moment, Liam didn't know whether to laugh or cry. He was deeply saddened by the Dean's passing but also felt relief that the Dean went peacefully.

Shaking his head again, Liam tried to shake off his habit of overthinking. He decided to find something to do to distract himself and slowly walked out of his room.

He had recently thought of a new dessert and decided to make it for the Shogun to try!

Occasionally, Liam would act on impulse. The idea was there, but being someone who frequently busied himself in the kitchen, Liam knew he was short on a few ingredients.

This was a good opportunity to restock supplies. Besides, the remaining ingredients wouldn't last long anyway. How did Ei manage to eat so many sweets every day?

Although Liam could have ordered the Shogunate soldiers to do the shopping, he figured he might as well go for a walk himself since he had nothing else to do. So, he left Tenshukaku at a leisurely pace.

As he reached the entrance, he encountered a familiar figure.

"Yo~! Sara! What brings you to Tenshukaku so early today?"

Liam asked, surprised to see Kujou Sara, who usually patrolled the city at this time.

"Good morning, Liam. The General summoned me, saying there was an important matter to discuss!"

Knowing that the Raiden Shogun trusted Liam greatly, Kujou Sara responded directly.

"I see."

Liam nodded in understanding, guessing that after discussing it with Makoto yesterday, Makoto had called Kujou Sara today. The important matter was likely about Sara leading the Tenryou Commission.

"I think I know what it's about. I was the one who recommended you to the General! I have high hopes for you!"

Liam said with a cheerful smile.

"Huh? What's it about? Could you tell me?"

Kujou Sara asked curiously, feeling both nervous and excited about the important matter the General wanted to discuss with her.

"Hehe, you'll find out soon enough! Goodbye for now, Sara. We'll talk later."

Liam said, waving as he left with a smile.

"Alright then. Goodbye, Liam!"

Although disappointed at not getting more information, Kujou Sara figured it wasn't anything bad based on Liam's behavior. She politely bid him farewell and headed to where the Raiden Shogun usually worked.

Knock! Knock! Knock!

A series of knocks sounded.

"Come in!"

A gentle female voice responded from inside the room.

"Whew!"

Kujou Sara took a deep breath, mentally preparing herself.

You can do it, Kujou Sara! You won't disappoint the General!

After a brief pep talk, she opened the door and entered, immediately seeing a familiar figure. But unlike before, the General wore a gentle smile.

"Gen... General!"

Seeing that smile, Kujou Sara's heart skipped a beat. She quickly bowed her head in respect to Raiden Makoto.

Kujou Sara couldn't figure out why, but lately, the General seemed different. That gentle smile was something the General never showed before. The previous General exuded an aura of dominance, but recently, the General gave off a warm, sisterly vibe.

"Hehe, sit down, Sara."

Raiden Makoto didn't correct Kujou Sara's address. Since she also held the title of the Raiden Shogun, it was fine to call her General. She pointed to the seat across the table, signaling Kujou Sara to sit.

"Yes, General!"

Kujou Sara obeyed without question. Even if the General had asked her to kneel for the discussion, she would have complied without hesitation. She sat opposite Raiden Makoto.

"Good, obedient child."

Raiden Makoto's smile grew even softer seeing Kujou Sara's compliance.

"Sara, do you know why I called you here today?"

Raiden Makoto asked, smiling at Kujou Sara's serious expression.

"Um..."

"Is it about the Tenryou Commission?"

Given her keen mind, Kujou Sara quickly deduced the reason for her summons.

"Correct! Correct!"

Raiden Makoto nodded in satisfaction. No wonder both Liam and Ei recommended her; she caught on quickly.

"What instructions do you have, General?"

Kujou Sara asked, seeing Raiden Makoto nod.

"Hehe, I want you to lead the Tenryou Commission. Do you think you can do it?"

Raiden Makoto asked directly, watching Kujou Sara closely for her reaction.

Kujou Sara was momentarily stunned by Raiden Makoto's words, recalling what Liam had said earlier at the entrance.

"What's the matter, Sara? Don't you have the confidence to lead the Tenryou Commission?"

Raiden Makoto teased when Kujou Sara didn't respond, snapping her out of her thoughts.

"No, General. I was just thinking about something else for a moment."

Kujou Sara explained, then seriously considered the task. Leading the Tenryou Commission was no small matter. Raiden Makoto, seeing her deep in thought, nodded approvingly. If it were someone else, they might have accepted the position immediately without consideration.

After a brief contemplation, Kujou Sara looked up at Raiden Makoto.

Raiden Makoto smiled.

"Well, have you made your decision?"

"Yes, General! I accept the task! I will do my utmost to lead the Tenryou Commission well!"

Kujou Sara declared earnestly.

"Hehe, I believe in you, Sara. You certainly won't disappoint us!"