novelraw Chapter 229: Character Interaction, God-Tier Tension
Chapter 229: Character Interaction, God-Tier Tension
“This… there’s a reward too?” Lin Muxue licked her lips, instinctively glancing at the safe, though it was blocked from view.
A promise from a billionaire had to be extraordinary.
“Of course,” Tang Song said, his bright eyes fixed on her. “I’m always fair. Since I asked for your help, I’ll naturally provide a reward. So, left or right?”
Having previously experienced the 【Lin Muxue’s Whispers】 instance, Tang Song found a peculiar enjoyment in teasing her.
Though he currently held $10,000 cash in each hand, it didn’t stop him from indulging in a bit of playful mischief with his “pseudo-socialite” friend. It was a guilty pleasure of sorts.
Lin Muxue glanced briefly at the safe before suppressing her inner greed. With a sincere expression, she looked at him and said, “No need. I’m just happy to help you. I don’t need any reward.”
In truth, she really wanted that reward.
However, her Shanghai trip had only intensified her desire to win Tang Song’s favor. She was even willing to forgo such a tempting offer to strengthen their relationship.
After all, with Su Yu’s concert approaching and her high school classmates soon to arrive, she needed Tang Song on her side to make her planned request seem natural.
Tang Song’s eyes briefly reflected surprise—her response was slightly different from the image he had of her. But her obedient and flattering words were undeniably pleasing to hear.Closing the safe, Tang Song slowly stood up, holding two bundles of fresh, crisp cash. The sight of the green bills instantly caught Lin Muxue’s attention.
Her throat bobbed as she gulped, her eyes involuntarily twitching.
Dollars?
Judging by the thickness, each stack was $10,000—over 70,000 RMB!
70,000 yuan!
That was how much she could earn after slaving over video edits for half a year. And she could’ve had it with just a simple nod?!
Regret surged through her.
Right now, she was desperately short on money. With this sum, her life could have been far more comfortable.
Noticing her gaze and micro-expressions, Tang Song’s lips curved into a faint smile. He held the cash out to her.
“Congratulations! You’ve completed the hidden mission 【A Blessing in Disguise】 and earned double rewards.”
(⊙o⊙)…
Lin Muxue stared at the bundles of cash, her mouth dry. She whispered, “Really?”
“Of course.” Tang Song stepped closer, gently pressing the cash against her chest.
Lin Muxue’s face turned crimson, her body trembling slightly.
As someone who had only managed to save a little over 100,000 yuan since graduating two years ago—most of which was wiped out by her Hermès Birkin purchase—this sudden $20,000 reward felt like a miracle.
After a brief hesitation, she finally reached out to take the cash. Stepping forward, she kissed him lightly on the cheek.
The moist warmth of her lips left a faint tingle, and the refreshing scent of her perfume filled Tang Song’s senses. It was a subtle blend of sea breeze and post-rain freshness.
He immediately recognized the fragrance—it was the same one she had worn when they crossed paths at Yunxi Tower. It had left a memorable impression on him.
Placing the cash into her bag, Lin Muxue gave a graceful smile. “Since it’s a hidden reward, I’ll accept it. Thank you, Tang Song. Hope you don’t mind the kiss!”
“Not at all.” Tang Song smiled warmly at her, then leaned in, gently wrapping an arm around her slim waist. He brought his face close to hers and inhaled softly.
In a low, magnetic voice, he asked, “Xiao Xue, your perfume smells amazing. What brand is it?”
“Uh…” Lin Muxue shivered slightly, goosebumps rising on her skin. Her voice quivered as she replied, “Jo Malone… Wood Sage & Sea Salt. Some describe it as ‘the gentlest ocean’ with hints of creamy milk and fresh sea breeze.”
She babbled about the perfume’s features, trying to hide her flustered state. Her mind was in chaos.
Tang Song, meanwhile, enjoyed the softness of her body and the subtle rise and fall of her breathing. His hand slid down from her waist to rest on her firm, rounded hips.
“It really does smell like the ocean. I like it,” he murmured.
Her figure was truly exceptional—an hourglass shape with a slim waist and perky hips.
Encased in a fitted dress, her curves were seductive and silky, with a texture that felt perfect under his touch.
Even after a full night with the beauty therapist, Tang Song found himself struggling to remain composed as he absentmindedly stroked her curves, almost like petting a cat.
“Thump-thump, thump-thump—” The sound of Lin Muxue’s heartbeat seemed to echo in the quiet walk-in closet.
Her expression began to falter, her voice growing quieter. “It’s a unisex scent… The top note is ambrette seeds, followed by sea salt…”
In the stillness of the room, the two of them engaged in a deep “discussion” about perfume.
Lin Muxue took deliberate breaths, trying to make her waist appear even slimmer and her hips more prominent.
I was right! she thought triumphantly. Maintaining my persona while subtly expressing my feelings and closing the distance between us is the way to win him over.
One day, he’ll treat me just like he treats Qianqian! I’ll be his girlfriend too. I’ll sign a family trust. I’ll be with him for life!
Noon: A Michelin Restaurant on the 68th Floor
In a restaurant perched high in the heart of Shanghai, Lin Muxue followed the manager into the elegantly designed space. Her eyes instinctively scanned the surroundings.
She had, of course, heard of this Michelin-starred establishment and seen countless social media posts about it.
But it was her first time experiencing it herself.
The ambiance was refined, radiating French charm. The curved architecture ensured every table had a view, allowing diners to admire the Huangpu River from a breathtaking height of 314 meters.
Suppressing the urge to snap photos, Lin Muxue straightened her posture and composed herself.
Soon, she was led to a window-side table where a striking woman in her thirties sat quietly.
Her makeup was flawless yet understated, her smooth hair gathered into a low bun at the nape of her neck.
The neckline of her white silk blouse was slightly open, striking the perfect balance of elegance and professionalism.
Her back was straight, her gaze calm, exuding confidence and poise. The aura of a polished corporate elite enveloped her.
“Good afternoon, President Mo,” Lin Muxue said nervously.
“Muxue, please, have a seat.” Mo Xiangwan gestured with a warm smile. “I’ve ordered a set menu for you. Let me know if you’d like to add anything.”
“This is already perfect. Thank you, President Mo,” Lin Muxue replied, trying her best to maintain her composure while building her confidence.
After all, she was sitting across from Mo Xiangwan—the president and shareholder of Tang Zong Entertainment, a true heavyweight in the industry.
Thankfully, representing Tang Song gave her a bit of an edge and some much-needed courage.
Noticing her nervousness, Mo Xiangwan started with light conversation about the events in Shanghai before cutting straight to the point.
“Muxue, you mentioned Tang Song sent something for me. What is it?”
Lin Muxue immediately reached into her bag and retrieved a glasses case, handing it over. “This, and there’s also an electronic file. I’ve sent it to the email address on your business card.”
“Thank you.”
Mo Xiangwan carefully opened the glasses case, revealing an exquisite pair of black-framed glasses.
Her eyes flickered slightly as recognition dawned.
Years ago, Tang Song had gifted Su Yu an identical pair. However, they had been damaged during an event, leaving Su Yu heartbroken for days.
Yesterday at the film festival, Tang Song had been wearing a similar pair himself.
Mo Xiangwan betrayed no emotion as she solemnly closed the case.
Opening her phone, she accessed her email and downloaded the attachment. Her eyebrows raised slightly as she read the title:
"Echoes of Dreams."
It was a fully realized musical composition, complete with lyrics, melody, arrangement, and vocal performance notes.
As she skimmed through the lyrics, her expression softened with subtle emotion.
So, he knows everything.
So, he understands her so deeply.
Of course, it made sense. Someone as intelligent as Tang Song wouldn’t fail to grasp Su Yu’s thoughts and feelings.
Now that he had left Beijing, with Jin Meixiao and Liu Qingning no longer by his side, perhaps this was Su Yu’s time.
Mo Xiangwan’s thoughts churned as the set menu began to arrive.
She sipped her appetizer drink and nibbled at the starter before setting her utensils down.
Looking calmly at Lin Muxue, she said, “Muxue, I have an urgent matter to attend to. Please enjoy your meal. The bill has been settled.”
Lin Muxue blinked, a little surprised, but quickly nodded. “Of course, President Mo.”
Watching Mo Xiangwan’s graceful figure as she left, Lin Muxue couldn’t resist mimicking her poised walk in her mind.
President Mo is incredible. Every move she makes is so captivating.
Refocusing, Lin Muxue pulled out her phone and began taking photos and videos.
The meticulously plated French dishes arrived one after another, each a visual masterpiece.
From this lofty perch, the Lujiazui financial district seemed almost within reach. The sprawling skyline of Shanghai stretched gloriously into the distance.
Sitting in one of the city’s finest restaurants, surrounded by exquisite cuisine, fine wine, and the $20,000 in her bag, Lin Muxue felt as though she were floating on air.
Noon: Emerald Lake Residences
“Knock, knock, knock—”
“President Mo!” The female assistant quickly opened the door.
Without pausing to change her shoes, Mo Xiangwan asked urgently, “Where is Su Yu?”
“In the music studio.”
The rapid clicks of her heels echoed on the wooden floor as Mo Xiangwan strode through the living room and hallway, stopping outside the inner room. Without hesitation, she opened the door and walked in.
Given her many years of close friendship with Su Yu, there was no need for formalities.
On a floor mat on the west side of the studio, Su Yu sat barefoot on a sofa, a guitar resting in her hands. She wore a plain white T-shirt and jeans, her expression distant as though lost in thought.
Her thick, jet-black hair flowed freely over her shoulders, and the soft light illuminated her flawless, porcelain-like skin.
Seeing her attire, Mo Xiangwan couldn’t help but smile knowingly. “Xiao Yu, practicing for your concert?”
“There are nine days left,” Su Yu murmured, her amber eyes shimmering under the light. “Sister Xiangwan, do you think he’ll come to my concert this time?”
Mo Xiangwan pressed her lips together and took a deep breath before saying, “Tang Song asked Lin Muxue to give me two things to pass on to you.”
Su Yu’s gaze froze, and she quickly stood, moving toward Mo Xiangwan with a mix of nervousness and anticipation. “What are they?”
Mo Xiangwan opened her bag, taking out a glasses case and handing it over. “See for yourself.”
Su Yu carefully accepted the case, her slender fingers lightly brushing against its surface.
When she opened it, tears welled up and streamed down her cheeks.
Her shoulders trembled, and her soft, ethereal sobs filled the room like a sorrowful melody.
Mo Xiangwan’s heart ached as she hugged Su Yu, using her own sleeve to wipe away the tears.
Su Yu, Su Yu…
To the outside world, she was an unreachable superstar, a Forbes-listed mogul, a walking spotlight.
But to her, none of that mattered as much as his approval and affection.
It might seem foolish to call her a “love-obsessed fool,” yet it was this unwavering love and longing that had carried her through her journey, making her the Su Yu she was today.
After a long while, Su Yu’s sobs subsided.
Mo Xiangwan retrieved another item from her bag—a printed document. “He wrote a new song for you. You’re going to love it.”
Su Yu put on the black-rimmed glasses and quickly opened the file, pulling out the lyric and score sheets to study them. Her vision blurred again.
Taking a deep breath, she stepped barefoot to the piano and began to sing softly, her fingers dancing on the keys.
“The wind brushes through the night’s veil, caressing my face… Gentle moonlight weaves a dreamlike fabric…”
She sang the song five times before looking up. Her voice was steady. “Sister Xiangwan, please make the arrangements. I want to perform this song at my concert.”
Night: Shanghai Streets
The Oriental Pearl Tower, ferry rides, the Bund, Jinling Pedestrian Street, Wukang Road…
Tang Song and Zhao Yaqian wandered through Shanghai’s vibrant streets, eating, shopping, and soaking in the bustling city life.
The youthful and lively Zhao Yaqian clung to Tang Song’s arm the entire time, sharing her thoughts with him while her radiant smile never left her face.
9:00 PM
The two sat in the back of a Maybach, heading back to the Bulgari Hotel.
After the previous night and morning’s exertions, combined with an entire day of excitement, Zhao Yaqian was thoroughly exhausted.
As soon as they were in the car, she clasped Tang Song’s hand in hers, their fingers interlocked, and leaned against the plush seat. Her breathing grew steady, and she soon fell into a peaceful sleep.
Tang Song glanced at her sleeping face, her lips curled into a soft smile, and a gentle light filled his eyes.
Today marked their first proper date since becoming a couple.
The 19-year-old showed an extraordinary level of attachment and affection. Every place they visited involved hugs, kisses, selfies, and playful requests to buy her little trinkets. She called him endearing nicknames with such natural sweetness that it melted Tang Song’s heart.
So this is the beauty of love, he thought.
As the car cruised smoothly down the road, Tang Song opened the system interface to review the item he had obtained the previous day.
【Scenario Instance Creation Card】
Usage: Creates a realistic plot-driven instance based on the current situation. The player will role-play as a character and explore the story. Completion will be assessed, with higher scores yielding greater rewards.
This was an unprecedented item in the game. Unlike the dream-like scenarios from before, this card would activate a real-world instance where he would assume a character's role. It would likely be similar to 【Lin Muxue’s Whispers】 but far more challenging.
While pondering this, his glasses suddenly flickered.
Tang Song’s heart skipped a beat as he experienced a sudden and unique intuition.
Su Yu is nearby.
Looking out the car window, he noticed a faint purple glow swirling through the air, like a dreamscape.
“Driver, stop ahead.”
“Yes, Mr. Tang.”
The car pulled to the curb with its hazard lights flashing.
Checking his map app, Tang Song’s gaze landed on the Emerald Lake Residences.
In the game, he had gifted Su Yu a property in this very development.
If she lives here and is wearing the 【Su Yu’s Glasses】 now, that would explain why we’re within the 【Lucky Bond Effect】 range.
Tang Song clenched his fists, then accessed the system inventory, his eyes settling on an item radiating a purplish-gold glow.
【Character Interaction Card】
Usage: Enables a communication opportunity with an in-game character through means such as dreams, networks, face-to-face, emails, etc.
Note 1: Interaction content is restricted to system-defined parameters.Note 2: Specific characters cannot be selected; rarer characters have a lower probability of being chosen.Note 3: Interaction cannot directly or indirectly affect the player’s charm level or task progress.Special Item Activation: Dream-Like Scenario Unfolds
This 【Character Interaction Card】, obtained a month ago from completing the side quest 【Investment Conference】, had been saved for a moment like this—when the 【Luck Buff】 was active.
Using it now gave Tang Song the best chance of interacting with higher-level characters.
As the thought of Su Yu—the radiant superstar he had nurtured in the game—filled his mind, Tang Song’s heart surged with excitement.
She was second only to Secretary Jin on his list of characters he most wanted to meet in reality. As a celebrity perfectly aligned with his tastes, hand-crafted from his preferences, he was eager to see what she was like in person.
Taking a deep breath, Tang Song selected the 【Character Interaction Card】 and activated it.
Ding!
“Special item 【Character Interaction Card】 has been used. Initiating character selection.”
Before him, the system screen began to flow, flickering with blurred images of various in-game characters. Tang Song’s focus sharpened as his anticipation rose.
“Whoosh—”
A dazzling burst of purplish-gold light illuminated the screen.
Suddenly, the scene shifted to a grand concert venue.
The stage was a glowing spectacle, blending the brilliance of the stars and the blaze of fireworks in the night sky. Drones equipped with LED lights formed intricate, dazzling patterns above.
The audience was a roaring sea of people, their cheers, screams, and chants forming a continuous wave of energy.
A spotlight pierced the darkness, centering on the stage.
In the middle of it all, a breathtakingly ethereal figure appeared.
Her flowing gown danced with the breeze, shimmering like a river of stars.
The scene slowly faded, replaced by lines of glowing text:
【You have been granted interaction opportunities with “Superstar Su Yu” and “Manager Mo Xiangwan.”】
【Interaction Scenario Locked: 2023 ‘With Yu’ Concert】
【During the concert, you will unlock temporary communication permissions with “Superstar Su Yu.” Interaction content cannot directly or indirectly affect player charm level or task progress.】
【On June 20, 2023, you will also unlock communication permissions with “Manager Mo Xiangwan” for the entire day. Interaction content is similarly restricted.】
【Challenge Mission Unlocked: “God-Tier Performance”】
Mission Objective:Participate in the concert as a guitarist and backup vocalist alongside Su Yu. Deliver an unforgettable, stunning live performance.
Tʜe source of this ᴄontent ɪs n͟o͟v͟e͟l͟f͟i͟r͟e͟.netMission Rewards:Random Gift Pack x1
Note:The size of the reward depends on the quality of the performance, including singing proficiency, stage effects, and audience atmosphere.
Tang Song exhaled deeply, his face lit with excitement and anticipation.
The 【Character Interaction Card】 didn’t limit interaction to a single character, and under the influence of the 【Lucky Bond Effect】, Su Yu was successfully selected.
With Mo Xiangwan present at the concert, her permissions were naturally unlocked as well.
Furthermore, Mo Xiangwan’s lower character level meant her interaction window extended to the entire day.
The restrictions—preventing any direct impact on charm ratings or task progress—were understandable. Without these, Tang Song could have used the concert to form a deeper bond with Su Yu, potentially making her his partner and significantly boosting his charm score.
The thought of collaborating with the dazzling, charismatic Su Yu in person made Tang Song’s heart race.
Nine days to go until the concert—a chance to not only see her but to perform alongside her.
The 【God-Tier Performance】 mission didn’t seem particularly difficult. Tang Song had absolute confidence in Su Yu’s abilities, and his guitar skills were top-tier. His role would mainly be to support her, and he trusted she wouldn’t let him down.
Ding!
“System Shop Updated. New Items Available.”
The system notification caught Tang Song’s attention, and he entered the shop module.
On the previously empty shelves, two new items shimmered with unique auras.
With a thought, he activated the product information:
【Su Yu’s Lyrics Notebook】
Grants partial mastery of Su Yu’s singing techniques to enhance coordination with her.
Price: ¥2,000,000
Note:Effort reaps rewards. I prove it with my voice.
【Tang Song’s Baseball Cap】
A cap worn by player Tang Song. Features excellent breathability and comfort. Wearing it reduces personal aura visibility, making the wearer appear more low-key and reserved. Agility +2.
Price: ¥3,000,000
5 million yuan in total. Tang Song didn’t hesitate, immediately purchasing both items.
Both were valuable tools to help him complete the upcoming mission.
The 【Tang Song’s Baseball Cap】 was especially useful for masking his identity on stage. Given Su Yu’s massive popularity, even appearing as a backup guitarist could lead to fan speculation and internet sleuthing.
Glancing once more toward the Emerald Lake Residences, Tang Song gave the driver a quiet command.
“Let’s go. Back to the Bulgari Hotel.”
Ten minutes later, the Maybach S680 came to a smooth stop at the B1 elevator entrance of the Bulgari Hotel.
Half-asleep, Zhao Yaqian clung to Tang Song's arm, following behind him with slow, measured steps.
Tang Song gently patted her on the hip and chuckled softly, “Come on, let me carry you upstairs.”
With that, he stood in front of her and bent down slightly.
Zhao Yaqian froze for a moment before tiptoeing onto his back, murmuring indistinctly, “Thanks, Brother Song. Love you.”
Tang Song scooped up her soft, curvy legs and stood up steadily.
Clinging to his neck, Zhao Yaqian nuzzled his face with her nose, giggling, then exhaled lightly near his ear.
“Stop messing around. Hold on tight,” Tang Song said indulgently.
After a bit of playful banter, she rested her face on his shoulder, closed her eyes, and gently bit him with her small, even teeth.
The two of them took the elevator directly to the 45th floor and entered a luxurious river-view suite.
Catching sight of herself in the full-length mirror, carried on Tang Song’s back, Zhao Yaqian whispered softly, “Brother, I really love you. No matter what happens, I’ll never leave you.”
Hearing her tender words, Tang Song paused for a moment before responding in a quiet voice, “I love you too, Qianqian.”
He carefully set her down on the soft bed in the bedroom, then bent over to remove her shoes. “Have a good rest. You can freshen up later.”
“Mm-hmm.” Zhao Yaqian hugged the blanket, her face adorned with a satisfied smile as she closed her eyes.
Tang Song leaned down and planted a light kiss on her plump lips, whispering, “Sleep well.”
Soon, the sound of her gentle snores filled the room.
Tang Song turned and walked toward the minibar, taking out a bottle of Balvenie whiskey and pouring himself a glass.
With the glass in hand, he sat on the single-seater by the floor-to-ceiling window, gazing out at the dazzling night view of Suhe Bay.
Outside, the lights glittered, and the bustling scene seemed dreamlike.
But his thoughts began to drift, and familiar faces floated before his eyes:
The gentleness of his first love, the sweetness of the beautician, the steadfastness of the older sister, the competence of his business partner, the pride of the White Rich Beauty, the contradictions of the pseudo-socialite, the glamour of the actress, the elegance of Secretary Jin...
He swirled the glass lightly, the amber liquid rippling as it intertwined with the tangled emotions in his heart.
For a moment, he was overwhelmed by a rush of feelings.