Lucas now chilling on Jane's couch, acting all casual, even though his mind was spinning like crazy trying to figure out how to nail this mission. He glanced at the interface still floating at the edge of his vision:
"Mood Boost: 75% (Amused). Target: 80%."
Just one more push needed. According to the Analyze feature, Jane digs humor and compliments. "Maybe a combo of both will do the trick," thought Lucas.
"By the way, Jane," Lucas started with a grin. "I don't know if I've ever mentioned this, but you're pretty cool."
Jane stared at him, half surprised. "Cool? Me?"
"Yeah," Lucas continued in a light tone. "I mean, not everyone can make a tiny space like this look cozy and tidy. Plus, you're always chill, like never stressed out. I'd lose my mind living in here with the rent skyrocketing."
Jane chuckled, this time more at ease. "You're something else, Lucas. But... thank you. I do try my best to stay sane, especially dealing with Mr. Grayson yelling every week."
"Mood Boost: 78% (Encouraged)."
Lucas saw the notification pop up. He smiled a little, feeling closer to success. "Almost there," he thought.
"Ah, speaking of Grayson," Lucas continued, trying to divert Jane's attention further. "Remember when he threatened to lock our apartment if we didn't pay on time? I almost believed him until he slipped on the stairs."
Jane burst into laughter, this time louder. "Oh my, I remember that! His face was red, and he pretended to be angry even though he was in pain. You really didn't help when you said, 'At least the stairs are still working fine.'"
Lucas joined in laughing, but his main focus was on the number on the interface.
"Mood Boost: 80% (Delighted). Mission Complete!"
A new message appeared:
"Reward: +20 XP, +1 Persuasion. New Skill Unlocked: Mood Boost (Active) – Increase target's mood by 10% for a limited time."
Lucas held back a wide grin while trying to look normal. "Okay, I think I've bothered you enough. Thanks for your time, Jane. I gotta get back to my game."
Jane nodded, still smiling. "Drop by anytime, Lucas. You're funnier than the comedy shows I watch."
Lucas just waved before leaving Jane's apartment and quickly returning to his own unit. Once his apartment door closed, he sat in his gaming chair and took a deep breath.
"So, this is real. This system really works," he muttered while opening the status window.
==================================
Lust Love Manipulation System
==================================
User: Lucas Cross
Level: 2 (Rookie Manipulator)
Experience (XP): 30/200
Attributes:
- Charm: 6
- Persuasion: 4
- Lust: 2
- Love: 1
Skills:
1. Analyze (Passive): Check target's emotion status.
2. Basic Manipulation: Add +10% attraction to target temporarily.
3. Mood Boost (Active): Increase target's mood by 10% for a limited time.
==================================
Lucas gazed at the level increase and his stats. "So, I really have the power to manipulate people's emotions." A small smile appeared on his face. "The question is, how far can I push it?"
But before he could ponder further, the digital voice of the system chimed in again.
"New Mission: Make target feel affection (Affection +5) within 24 hours. Reward: +30 XP, +1 Lust."
Lucas read the message with raised eyebrows. This time, the mission felt more complex.
"Affection?" he mumbled. He reopened the Analyze screen, this time checking Jane's latest recorded data.
Affection (Love): 15/100 (Friendly)
Lucas leaned back in his chair, pondering hard. "How do I really make someone interested in me? Do I need to try using Basic Manipulation?"
This would be his first real test of his newfound abilities—and Lucas knew, his success or failure this time could be the start of something bigger.