The Art of Fishing (Slack off) Requires Playing Hard to Get

The classic trope—the former strongest warrior, stripped of their power and exiled to the boonies, is challenged and humiliated by an ignorant newcomer—didn't play out at the Australian branch.

Himeko, who greeted Lee, was incredibly welcoming. Although just the captain of the Fire Moth's Fifth Squad, she was one of the highest-ranking commanders in this remote branch.

Under her leadership, the newcomers wouldn't dare act disrespectfully.

However, knowing Lee's current physical condition was similar to an ordinary person's, Himeko didn't dare assign her to practical combat training.

What if Lee got hurt? The higher-ups at HQ would have her head!

But Lee insisted on having something to do, so Himeko reluctantly arranged a theoretical combat course, open to all volunteers.

Initially, all the warriors flocked to Lee's lectures, eager to learn from the legendary hero. But the dry theory quickly discouraged them—knowing the history of martial arts didn't make their attacks any stronger.

Besides, using human combat techniques against Honkai beasts… well, they weren't exactly human-shaped. The Deadman were, but human weaknesses didn't apply to them.

After a few lessons, Lee's classroom was empty, save for one person.

"Hua, you're the only one here again today."

In the vast classroom, Lee smiled at the lone figure, walking down from the podium and sitting before her.

"After listening for so long, what do you think of my lessons?"

"Ms. Lee…" Though they were acquainted, Hua's reserved nature made her a bit awkward around such a high-ranking hero. "I think this course is excellent. Understanding the history of different schools of thought allows one to reflect on the shortcomings of one's own combat techniques."

"That's true, but combat techniques were ultimately developed for use against humans." Lee smiled. "So, against Honkai beasts and Deadman, they're not very useful. Combat theory even less so."

"…Ah?"

Hua blinked, bewildered. She'd assumed Lee's course had a deeper purpose, but now… it was useless?

"Sorry, Hua, for getting your hopes up. I was just looking for something to do."

Lee's smile was a bit rueful. "I'd like to teach practical combat skills and weapon usage, but sparring is too dangerous for me now, and Himiko won't allow it."

"Yes, Captain Himiko is very thoughtful." Hua nodded in agreement. Although Himiko's red hair gave the impression of a carefree personality, she was actually quite meticulous and protective of her squad members.

So, with Lee, a hero sent from HQ, Himeko was even more cautious.

"I know she's a good person, but…"

Lee sighed, leaving the sentence unfinished.

She stood up and returned to the podium.

"Well, that's that… Hua, you don't have to come anymore. This class is just a waste of everyone's time. I'll talk to Himeko and have her cancel it."

Seeing Lee's dejected figure, Hua felt a pang of anxiety, wondering if she'd done something wrong.

Although stationed in Australia, Hua had heard about Lee's injury through the news. The once radiant hero, now weakened, could only teach useless theory…

Hua couldn't understand. Just a few years ago, Lee had been a shining beacon. How had she become like this?

Did all light eventually fade? Just like her family's martial arts school, this once celebrated hero was now… lonely?

Hua had failed to revive her martial arts school, but looking at Lee, she felt compelled to do something.

"I think your lessons are great, Ms. Lee!"

Lee turned in surprise, seeing Hua rush to the podium, her gaze unwavering.

"I really like sitting here… I like listening to your lectures, Ms. Lee!" Hua declared earnestly. "So please don't cancel it. I want to continue learning from you!"

"…"

Lee stared at Hua's face, then, after a long pause, she laughed.

"Is that so? Well, if someone still needs me, I can't refuse…"

"Hua, are you interested in learning something useful from a useless person?"

At this point, Hua could only give one answer—a firm nod.

Looking at the earnest Hua, three words surfaced in Lee's mind.

Just as planned.

As everyone knew, fishing required patience after casting the bait, and Lee was a master angler.

Since learning of her assignment to Australia, Lee had set her sights on Hua. So how to deepen their relationship?

Approaching Hua directly would be simple, but Himeko had told her that Hua was a training fanatic. In Lee's current state, she couldn't keep up.

Though with Hua's personality, she would probably agree to spend time with Lee, even reducing her training intensity to accommodate her, that wasn't enough for Lee.

That would put Lee in the position of helper, a helper who wasn't actually helpful. Such a dynamic wouldn't foster deep bonds quickly.

So Lee decided on the opposite approach: changing her role from helper to helped. After all, studies showed people were more likely to develop fondness for those who needed their help, rather than those who constantly offered it.

It was the "what would you do without me?" strategy.

Regardless, playing the damsel in distress had worked on Hua.

Now, I'll continue discussing martial arts with her, teaching her some combat techniques, and hopefully max out her affection before the Seventh Herrscher appears~

But there was one thing that had bothered Lee since arriving in Australia and seeing Hua…

She glanced discreetly at Hua's chest.

Flat as a board. Nowhere near Lihua's level.

Poor child. I'll have to feed her more papaya milk or something. It would be too tragic to be mocked by players for not developing after fifty thousand years.