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

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In Ana's view, the Honkai selection process resembled the Heart Demon tribulation from her previous life's Honghuang genre novels.

However, objectively speaking, Himeko didn't truly need this trial anymore. Whether it be her physical body or willpower, she already possessed the qualifications to become a Herrscher.

Nevertheless, adhering to the established rules, Ana still provided this test. And the subject of this trial would be the Herrscher of Flame from the previous civilization, another incarnation of Himeko herself.

During the trial, Himeko would relive Himeko Amatsukaze's past and ultimately engage in a confrontation between Herrschers, culminating in becoming the new Herrscher of Flame.

This was the script Ana had written for Himeko.

She did not wish for the power of a Herrscher to be easily attainable. Despite her ambition of creating a world where everyone could be a Herrscher, allowing malevolent individuals to achieve such status would inevitably harm society as a whole.

Thus, both logically and morally, this trial was necessary—a promising start indeed.

As for the Honkai World...

Ana shifted her gaze towards it, focusing on the imminent birth of another Herrscher—the Thousand-person Herrscher, also known as the Herrscher of Dominance.

"The Thousand-person Herrscher... Each individual Herrscher is incredibly weak, but when united, they can form the Herrscher of Dominance, capable of seizing other Herrschers' powers."

"That sounds like an unmitigated villain."

"But..." Ana's eyes sparkled.

She intended to rewrite the script of this farce. With a Thousand-person Herrscher comprising exactly one thousand individuals, why should all of them be villains? Why couldn't just one achieve rebirth, transforming the so-called rabble into a formidable force for justice?

The world indeed was not perfect, but shaping it into what everyone desires isn't solely the task of the main characters, Schicksal, Anti-Entropy, and World Serpent; it is also the mission of countless ordinary people.

A Thousand-person Herrscher allows each member to obtain Herrscher power, creating widespread Honkai effects.

When a group of weak individuals gathers, they huddle together for mutual support, while a gathering of strong ones results in a powerful alliance. It may permit the emergence of disorganized masses, yet it also offers the potential for these masses to become formidable. However, there must absolutely exist a force of justice.

Therefore...

Ana raised her hand, directing her Authority to sweep across Earth. This time, she aimed to create more Herrschers of a Thousand People, increasing their number to three thousand. As the saying goes, "Three men can start a rumor," but what kind of power could be unleashed by three thousand individuals united as one?

Moreover, when this mob becomes sufficiently strong, would these weak individuals, collectively forming the unruly crowd, develop their own will and potentially splinter apart?

Most importantly, Ana hoped that among these Herrschers of a Thousand People, some might become Herrschers of Humanity. Despite being ordinary, there are always those who walk alone through darkness yet retain light within their hearts.

Additionally, for Ana's plan, the Herrschers of a Thousand People presented an opportunity - a chance to openly enhance Honkai Energy levels without arousing suspicion.

The next such opportunity would likely only arise upon witnessing Otto's downfall.

As for concerns about losing control, they were entirely unfounded. The fundamental difference between Ana and Otto lay in Ana's possession of absolute power to ensure everything remains under her grasp.

Notably, Himeko was currently undergoing trials herself.

With two Herrschers of Flame facing off against even stronger Herrschers of a Thousand People, how could they possibly lose? The Legacy of the Flame, mentorship bonds... these connections amplify their strength exponentially!

Moreover, on Earth, her avatar Bai Zhi serves as an additional safeguard.

Not to mention, there's no way Kevin would remain idle either. Worst-case scenario, Ana could simply flip the table and end the game outright. Thus, everything remains firmly within her control.

There is virtually no chance for a repeat of the Second Honkai Eruption, unless...

Unless the entity behind The Cocoon of Finality loses interest and decides to intervene directly, forcing Ana to concede defeat. Of course, anyone in that situation would have no choice but to accept their loss, so let's assume such a possibility doesn't exist.

Furthermore, one might not realize that Bai Zhi appearing at Taixuan Mountain was more than just about recruiting Senti; it carries a crucial message: The Herrschers will undergo significant changes, with the Herrscher of a Thousand People potentially encompassing even more individuals beyond its name suggests.

The true purpose of Ana's move is to prepare the three major organizations accordingly.

Compared to the presence of the Herrscher of a Thousand People, Senti's journey through the mortal world holds less significance. As for Senti herself... Unless she chooses to directly alter ordinary people's consciousness, she may not be as impactful as a hidden Herrscher or doll among the populace.

"However, the biggest question now is whether I should personally become, or select someone else to embody, this Herrscher of a Thousand People."

Ana pondered deeply.

The Herrscher of a Thousand People, whether manifested through a chaotic horde of dolls or her envisioned elite force, both required individuals with the characteristics of assimilation and dominance.

Negative emotions are highly infectious, whereas optimistic and positive sentiments have less impact. Especially in this era plagued by Honkai, negative emotions dominate as an unchanging theme.

If not for the control and influence exerted by Schicksal, Anti-Entropy, and World Serpent surpassing that of Fire Moth from the previous civilization, it might be exceedingly difficult to experience any positivity today.

Even the most fundamental foundation could be at risk of being lost.

After some deliberation, Ana ultimately decided against granting Bai Zhi the Authority of Domination. It was unnecessary; Bai Zhi mirrored herself too closely, and excessive involvement would inevitably raise suspicions among others.

Now, who should become the core Larva Herrscher for the elite force within the Herrscher of a Thousand People? This posed a significant challenge for Ana, despite having the direct authority to choose. The requirements for the Larva were exceptionally high: they must possess optimism, unwavering determination, and sufficient strength.

Even if the elite Herrschers' numbers were insufficient, they must not be immediately overwhelmed and assimilated by the chaotic masses. At the very least, they should possess some resistance capabilities; otherwise, their selection would be pointless.

Thus, Ana's gaze returned to the Honkai World, and soon her eyes lit up as she found the perfect candidate. She was the wealthy Valkyrie, known for her naive charm among her comrades—a dancer who loved romanticizing scenarios, slightly Mary Sue-ish—Susannah.

With just one glance at her, Ana made her choice.

Ana had a strong impression of this Valkyrie. Unintentionally, Susannah had supported Ana and Durandal during their missions before, even playing a minor role in the London operation.

In summary, she was a Valkyrie recognized by Captains, leaving a notable impact on them. Apart from being a Valkyrie, she was also a princess from a wealthy family. Her status, personality, and dedication all indicated that she could withstand the power of the Herrscher of a Thousand People and resist assimilation.

Otherwise, amidst the numerous Valkyries of Schicksal, she would have long faded into obscurity. It's worth mentioning that Susannah has already been exceptionally promoted to the Immortal Blades squad.

In terms of strength, she is now an A-rank Valkyrie, fitting well with the elite nature of the chosen force.

Unfortunately, someone like Rita lacks the potential to become a Herrscher; otherwise, considering her connection with Ana, Ana would undoubtedly have provided her with a Core.

Alas, Rita's physique simply doesn't measure up.

In the Honkai World, after a long hiatus, the narrative briefly entered a short and heartwarming slice-of-life phase. However, everyone understood it was merely the calm before the storm.

Bai Zhi's presence vanished without a trace, along with Senti's occasional appearances.

Under Anti-Entropy and Schicksal's surveillance, traces of Senti could still occasionally be detected. But Bai Zhi disappeared completely, as if evaporating from existence. If she were indeed affiliated with the World Serpent, that would explain her disappearance.

Anti-Entropy had no connection with the World Serpent; rather, they were somewhat at odds. While Schicksal cooperated with the World Serpent, their collaboration remained limited.

In essence, Raiden Mei's presence facilitated cooperation among these three organizations. The Herrscher of Thunder's influence was undeniable, commanding attention from all factions.

And with Raiden Mei's status, everyone naturally adopted a friendly approach towards her. As for what Otto and Kevin thought, it didn't matter; their tacit approval sufficed without needing any overt actions.

However, this tranquility was about to be shattered, starting first within Schicksal.

"Waaaaah, Lady Durandal, please help me! Waaaah—"

Inside a Schicksal laboratory, separated by glass, Durandal observed Susannah's distraught expression, massaged her temples, and sighed deeply.

A researcher promptly approached Durandal, handing her a report while explaining, "Lady Durandal, we have confirmed that the Herrscher Core within Lady Susannah is indeed the Herrscher of a Thousand People Core, also known as the Core of the Herrscher of Dominance."

"Ah." Durandal skimmed through the report briefly and nodded. However, it was clear that these details were not the main concern. Currently, Susannah did not appear remotely like a Herrscher; she seemed... well, unchanged.

"However, Lady Susannah did not display any overt Authorities. Yet around her, we could sense spreading Honkai Energy with a certain infectious effect; however..."

The researcher's expression turned peculiar, as this was the first time she had encountered such a bizarre situation while studying Honkai Energy and Herrschers.

"Go on. We won't abandon any of our comrades."

"This type of Honkai Energy influences the emotions of those nearby, making them more optimistic. In essence, it induces a positive mental state..." Although difficult to explain, the researcher managed to convey the information.

"Can she control her Authority?"

"Theoretically, yes, but she likely needs further training. Additionally, the leaking Honkai Energy can only be considered a characteristic, not an Authority itself. The core essence lies in domination," the researcher added.

Indeed, this distinction between the Herrscher of Dominance in this civilization era and the Herrschers of a Thousand People from the previous era is fundamental.

In the previous era, each Thousand-person Herrscher operated independently, possessing distinct weakened Authorities. In this generation, however, the Herrscher of Dominance is solely defined by their Authority of Domination, with emotions merely serving as a means.

"Hm, should these findings be sufficient to prove my teammate's safety?"

"That appears to be confirmed. However, for Lady Susannah's safety, I believe it would still be best to keep her here for training and treatment while arranging additional Valkyries for her protection," the researcher stated seriously.

"With a normal Herrscher like Lady Susannah existing, there must also be abnormal Negative Entropy Herrschers. Those beings likely view Lady Susannah as a thorn in their side."

Durandal couldn't help but narrow her eyes; she wouldn't allow her subordinate to get harmed due to such circumstances.

"Nevertheless, Lady Durandal need not worry. Based on data from the previous civilization and our research on the Herrscher of Dominance, individual Herrschers of Dominance are quite weak, with limited assimilation capabilities. A typical A- or B-rank Valkyrie can typically handle them," reassured the researcher.

"Good." This explanation finally put Durandal at ease.

"Susannah, please stay here for now. We need to continue monitoring your condition, and it's not safe outside," Durandal advised sincerely from behind the glass partition.

Indeed, there was no need to fear Schicksal's researchers turning evil, so staying at this facility genuinely ensured Susannah's safety.

"Alright, but you must remember to visit me, Lady Durandal!"

"Don't worry, Susannah. The Immortal Blades never abandon any member, and you're no exception!" Durandal reassured her before heading out. Soon, a serious expression returned to her face.

"Valkyries, prepare for combat! Be ready to confront potential intruders at any moment!"

Based on Durandal's conjecture after reviewing the research reports, Susannah held significant importance among Herrschers of Dominance.

Schicksal likely faced an impending fierce battle soon.

Herrschers similar to Susannah would converge here, while those with opposing traits would also approach, aiming either to kill Susannah and other Herrschers or assimilate them using their dominance abilities.

According to the report, Susannah's power was not particularly strong, significantly below that of a typical Herrscher and even falling short compared to Wendy.

She couldn't protect herself effectively, and given her personality, it seemed unlikely she could reverse dominate other incoming Herrschers. Therefore, they decided to keep Susannah within the laboratory, enhance security measures, and prepare for impending battles.

Of course, these judgments were based on Durandal's analysis of the research findings; the final decision still rested with Otto.

However, at this moment, Otto was not present in Schicksal but rather...