Chen Tianwu scrutinized the document, feeling slightly excited despite himself. After all, being on the third tier of Anti-Entropy's power pyramid conferred rare honor and status worldwide.
Then, he tilted his head and muttered:
"There's no signature from the Alliance Leader."
"Oh, I forgot." In response to Chen Tianwu's observation, Zeke nonchalantly reopened the electronic document, added Welt Yang's signature, and resent it to Chen Tianwu.
The corner of Chen Tianwu's mouth twitched.
"You... aren't you being too reckless?"
"What do you mean? It sounds as if there's anything within Anti-Entropy that doesn't fall under my decision-making authority. If he dares to have any objections, tell him to come discuss it with me directly."
"Well then, thank you for your mentorship and promotion, sir... Although, I still prefer taking leave."
"Don't worry; I'm not some devil after all. In two months, a group of students will arrive at the Lunar Base for internships. They are selected elites from the 103 Anti-Entropy high schools. Your sister, Chen Tianwen, just barely qualifies," Zeke said matter-of-factly.
Hmm, once the internship is over, we'll officially bring that young girl into Anti-Entropy. Firstly, she genuinely possesses talent, and secondly, this further ties Chen Tianwu to Anti-Entropy's war chariot—a win-win situation.
Chen Tianwu was momentarily stunned.
His little sister would be coming here—meaning he could see her face-to-face?
His eyes brightened, and he straightened up, heels snapping together as he delivered a crisp and precise military salute.
"I'll promptly gather recent research challenges we've encountered. Please wait momentarily, sir, so you can enlighten us with your insights."
He swiftly turned and left, his footsteps noticeably lighter.
Tianwu understood Zeke's intentions well, but regardless, allowing him to reunite with his sister and even sharing this joyful news beforehand was indeed a great favor deserving of gratitude.
As evident from the original story, due to Ana saving him, Chen Tianwu would defy his former employer, World Serpent, to protect her. His betrayal stemmed from their transactional relationship; while World Serpent had saved his life, he also made significant contributions to them, leaving no debts between them—repaying kindnesses and maintaining fairness were Chen Tianwu's principles.
Before meeting Zeke, Chen Tianwu's life lacked purpose, aimlessly drifting through school solely relying on his exceptional intellect.
After encountering Zeke, initially overwhelmed by his superior capabilities, Tianwu found himself compelled to obey his mentor despite being of similar age. Soon, he discovered that he was engaged in meaningful work, something worthy of lifelong pride.
Even today, if asked for his opinion on Zeke, terms like "old scoundrel" or "utterly heartless" might be most fitting.
However, should Zeke request Chen Tianwu to undertake a perilous mission, even one certain to lead to death, Chen Tianwu would flip him off before unhesitatingly charging forward.
In short, congratulations to Sir Zeke—a dedicated tool at his disposal just increased by one more.
"So, is that how you manipulate the young man with ease?"
As Fu Hua listened to Zeke's analysis of Chen Tianwu's character, she held her tea cup and shook her head, amused yet deeply sympathetic towards the heavily-pouched youth.
However, considering it was all for the greater cause against Honkai, she refrained from commenting further. After all, who could truly have an easy path on this journey?
Zeke looked at her, his sword-like eyebrows slightly raised.
"Manipulate him with ease? That sounds too harsh. I merely address the root of the issue; it's more like one willingly offers while the other gladly accepts."
"You always find a way to make sense. I can never win an argument with you."
"It seems the immortal has become increasingly lively lately. Have you regained your youthful spirit?"
"Hey, remember, I'm still a woman! Making jokes about my age isn't appreciated... But speaking of mindset, it's probably thanks to Fuxi's help, combined with knowing there are so many forces combating Honkai—it brings me much peace!"
Fu Hua sipped her tea, her serene smile exuding a calm and distant aura, refined by time, which instilled an indescribable comfort and reassurance in others.
Zeke silently nodded.
Yes, precisely this feeling—beautiful, intelligent, gentle as jade, without any headaches, simply being together evokes tranquility—the epitome of an ideal lifelong partner!
Kiana? Just a single-celled organism combined with a humanoid husky—no thanks; associating with her would surely shorten one's lifespan.
"Why are you constantly staring at me? Is there something on my face?"
"No, just admiring your beauty."
"(???) While it makes me happy, such compliments can easily be misunderstood."
"True, then let's forget I said anything." Zeke casually set down his teacup, sighed, and assumed a relaxed demeanor.
Feeling slightly awkward, Fu Hua scratched her smooth cheek. She couldn't help but think that Zeke's extreme nonchalance made her seem utterly uncharming—as if she held no appeal whatsoever. After all, despite being called an immortal, she was merely a typical young woman with girlish sentiments, not some ethereal being.
Just as Fu Hua remained caught in her self-consciousness, the door burst open with great force. A white-haired bundle of energy, still only physically matured, pounced onto Zeke.
"Zeke~"
"Don't mimic Sin; your tone isn't nearly as sweet—it comes across too saccharine," Zeke replied coolly, absentmindedly stroking Kiana's head as usual.
Kiana instantly puffed up her cheeks, but quickly deflated in resignation, responding weakly:
"Oh..."
"Feeling better now?"
"Yes, I'm fine, feeling great."
"How about mentally? Any discomfort or issues?"
"Nope, had an excellent sleep." Kiana chuckled, revealing her neat row of pristine white teeth.
Zeke's lips curved upwards slightly, and he nodded with satisfaction before gently admonishing her:
"Go sit over there; don't just jump on me all the time—it's not proper behavior."
"But noooo, I've already shared my super embarrassing feelings with you. Don't be shy either! Do you want to hold me? Do you wish to touch here, here, and here? Are you craving a passionate, wet kiss? Come on, I'll absolutely play along!" Kiana wriggled atop Zeke, completely disregarding Fu Hua's presence nearby, doing her utmost to entice him.
To be honest, she felt incredibly soft and comfortable. Anyone else might succumb to the fiery allure of this enchanting sprite, akin to holding warm jade against their chest—an experience that would surely evoke a stirring response.
However, Zeke displayed deadpan indifference, seeing only a shameless lunatic—a deranged serpent who grew up under his watchful eyes. Only another lunatic could react to such antics.
Clearly, Zeke was not a lunatic.
Hence, he remained unresponsive.
"I understand you might feel insecure. Here, sign this agreement; it'll establish an unbreakable bond between us forever, allowing you to confidently indulge your antics."
As Zeke presented her with a document, Kiana took it curiously and began reading its contents.
"This is...an adoption agreement? Adopter: Zeke, Adoptee: Kiana, establishing a legal father-daughter relationship... You want to be my dad? Wait, I get it now! Who knew Dad was so playful? No worries, Daughter here will fully cooperate!"
Kiana partially hid her face behind the form, peeking sideways with a mischievous grin, clearly imagining some unspeakable scenarios.
"Thud!!"
Kiana collapsed onto the floor, sporting a massive lump on her head. With a trembling finger pointed forward, she then went completely still.
Zeke took a deep breath, composing himself.
He swore that considering Kiana had just endured hardship, he genuinely intended to restrain his temper and treat her more gently.
But truly, it was unbearable.
How did Kiana turn out like this? His upbringing of her should have been impeccable!
"Sip~"
Fu Hua enjoyed a sip of tea, gazing out the window at the simulated blue sky and fluffy clouds, feeling remarkably serene.
So that's their relationship? Well, it seems quite fitting. Apart from Zeke, nobody else could really handle Kia's temperament.
"No, please don't misunderstand, immortal."
"I understand. Fuxi mentioned how relationships at your age tend to be like this. Don't worry, I won't spread it around. Wishing you both happiness. However, your approach is indeed... intriguing. Just remember to be mindful when others are present."
"Do I...really seem like that kind of person?"
"Everyone has hidden aspects. This is between the two of you, and I have no judgment whatsoever."
"In any case, I assure you, there's nothing romantic about my intentions towards her. Please do not misinterpret."
Despite his explanations, Fu Hua maintained her composed smile, unfazed by Zeke's words.
Zeke realized that within a short span of time, he wouldn't be able to clarify the situation with Fu Hua effectively.
Damn!