Lucas stared at the system screen with a furrowed brow. His new mission was clearly different from the previous ones. This time, he was asked to spark genuine interest from his target—Jane Harper.
"New Mission: Make the target feel interest (Affection +5) within 24 hours. Reward: +30 XP, +1 Lust."
"Interest? How does it work?" Lucas muttered, trying to understand this system better. He opened up the Analyze for Jane, carefully reading her statistics.
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Target: Jane Harper
Mood: 80% (Delighted)
Affection (Love): 15/100 (Friendly)
Desire (Lust): 0/100 (None)
Weak Points:
- Likes humor.
- Enjoys compliments.
Suggestions:
- Give more attention to build an emotional connection.
- Use Basic Manipulation to enhance temporary attractiveness.
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"Give more attention, huh?" Lucas took a deep breath. He had never really thought about social relationships before, let alone building someone's interest.
Lucas decided to start with something simple. He grabbed his jacket and walked to Jane's unit, knocking on her door once more.
The door opened, and Jane appeared, looking slightly surprised. "Lucas? You're back again? What's up?"
Lucas scratched his neck, trying to look casual. "Hey, I was just thinking... maybe you'd like to hang out for a bit? I have some free time, and... I feel like we haven't really talked in a long time."
Jane furrowed her brow, then smiled. "Hang out? Hmm, why not? I could use a break from all the work drama."
"Great," Lucas replied quickly. "How about we go to the café nearby? I'll treat you to coffee."
Jane raised an eyebrow. "Treat? That's rare. Okay, I'll get ready in a bit."
Lucas waited a few minutes until Jane appeared, wearing a simple denim jacket. Together, they walked to the small café in the district corner, a place known to Lucas for its calm atmosphere.
---
In the café, they sat in a corner, away from the crowd. Jane ordered a cappuccino, while Lucas just ordered tea. He tried to read the situation, observing Jane's expressions while thinking about his next move.
"So," Jane began, "why suddenly want to hang out? You're usually busy with your games."
Lucas smiled slightly. "Well, I realized that I spend too much time in front of the screen. Sometimes I forget that the real world is interesting too."
Jane chuckled. "That's obvious. You don't even know how to use the washing machine in the apartment."
Lucas laughed along, albeit a bit nervous. He knew he needed to take the next step. He activated Basic Manipulation, and the interface confirmed:
"Skill Activated: Basic Manipulation (+10% temporary attractiveness)."
Lucas felt a slight shift in the atmosphere—Jane seemed more focused on him. He decided to try a more personal approach.
"By the way, Jane," Lucas said seriously. "I know we don't talk much, but I've always admired how you handle life. You seem like someone who really knows how to keep the balance."
Jane was surprised to hear Lucas's serious tone, but she smiled small. "That's quite a heavy compliment. You must be kidding."
"No," Lucas replied firmly. "I'm serious. You always seem so relaxed, while I often feel like a mess."
Jane fell silent for a moment, then chuckled. "Lucas, you're unique. I didn't know you could be serious like this."
"Affection increased: +3. Total: 18/100 (Friendly)."
Lucas held back a smile when he saw the small increase in Jane's statistics. "Success," he thought. Yet, he knew there was still a long way to go before he reached the mission target.
Their conversation continued, with Lucas continuing to use humor and compliments to keep the atmosphere light. He realized that this task was more than just "playing a game." He had to understand others and build real connections.
As they finished and walked home together, Jane suddenly said, "I'm glad you invited me out today, Lucas. I needed this time to relax."
Lucas smiled. "I'm glad you came too. Maybe we can do it again sometime."
Jane nodded. "Yes, of course."
As they parted ways at their apartment doors, Lucas opened his system again.
"Progress: Affection increased to 18/100. Mission not yet completed."
"This will be harder than I thought," Lucas muttered as he sighed.