novelraw Chapter 286: Companion Development and Dream Wedding
Chapter 286: Companion Development and Dream Wedding
In the quiet bedroom, Tang Song’s gaze turned hazy as he stared at the exquisite feather item in front of him.
For a moment, it felt as though something in his mind had been triggered. He opened his mouth as if to say something but fell silent instead.
From the item’s description, it was clear that [Feather of Memory] would automatically activate when the player found themselves in a familiar setting and experienced a shift in mindset, helping retrieve fragments of a buried memory.
These memory fragments likely pertained to events from 2016—a time deeply tied to the game’s storyline.
2016.
The second half of Tang Song’s final year of high school, over seven years ago.
That period of his life felt like an undercurrent beneath a thick layer of ice—blurred and indistinct. Yet, some things, like the feather in front of him, remained vividly clear.
Back then, inspired by his "White Moonlight" Liu Qingning's promise of “working hard and meeting at the top,” he had thrown himself into relentless study, constantly pushing himself forward.
But in this pursuit, he became acutely aware of the differences in their natural abilities.
Liu Qingning, consistently in the top three of their grade, was almost guaranteed a spot at the prestigious Imperial Capital University. Tang Song, however, despite working tirelessly throughout his final year, could at best aim for a decent Tier 1 university.He spent that last stretch of high school oscillating between admiration for her, anxiety about the future, and self-reproach.
In the end, she entered Imperial Capital University, while Tang Song enrolled in Yan City University of Technology.
Though only 300 kilometers separated the Imperial Capital and Yan City, Tang Song felt the chasm between them growing wider.
This realization fueled his determination and effort throughout his four years of university.
Tang Song snapped out of his thoughts and patted Wen Ruan’s shoulder, dispelling the sense of unreality lingering in his mind.
At least for now, he was certain that his memories and experiences were genuine.
Perhaps he should find time to revisit his hometown and high school, hoping to trigger the [Feather of Memory] and unlock its hidden past.
Lying on the bed, Wen Ruan let out a soft hum and shifted forward slightly.
It was, after all, her first time. Despite her excellent fitness and stamina from regular exercise, even she felt a little overwhelmed.
Tang Song handed her a glass of warm water, covered her with a blanket, and then headed to the bathroom. After a quick shower, he put on a loose, comfortable outfit.
Settling into a single-seater sofa in the living room, he poured himself a glass of fragrant champagne and gazed out at the city skyline.
Reflecting on the earlier moments with Wen Ruan, he savored the aftertaste of the wine and opened the system interface.
Focusing on the player’s 3D model, he entered the [Personal Center]:
[Player: Tang Song (Charisma: 61)]
[Role: President, Songmei Fashion]
[Height: 184 cm, Weight: 81 kg]
[Physical Stats:]
Physique: 68Stamina: 68Agility: 65Insight: 82[Asset Overview:]
Balance: ¥681,000Investment Funds: ¥195 millionEnterprises:Songmei Fashion (75% equity)Slover TrustHuashang Fashion (35% equity)Bocai Yingrui (35% equity)Lan Feng International Hotel (transaction in progress)Xingyun International Group (transaction in progress)LimeTech (transaction in progress)Tang Zong Entertainment (transaction in progress)Tang Song’s mood lifted further as he reviewed his burgeoning asset list.
Even the 4% stake in Tang Zong Entertainment was worth a staggering ¥3.2 billion RMB, dramatically elevating his net worth.
What’s more, Tang Zong Entertainment was still growing rapidly, with its stock prices climbing steadily. LimeTech, as a unicorn in the AI field, only added to his incredible portfolio.
Tang Song understood why the system capped his Tang Zong Entertainment shares at 4%. Holding more than 5% of a publicly traded company would require disclosure of his information—something that wouldn’t benefit him at this stage.
At Charisma: 60, his best option was to grow steadily, focus on self-improvement, and carefully integrate the assets managed by the elite characters he had recruited in the game.
The serene and cozy afternoon passed as Tang Song sipped his champagne, lost in thought.
Suddenly, a crisp system notification sounded in his ear:
“Ding! The companion development plan for 【Wen Ruan】 has been generated. Please check the [Companion] module.”
Tang Song’s spirits soared. He quickly navigated back to the main interface and opened the [Companion] module.
Wen Ruan’s portrait glowed softly, encased in a shimmering aura. Clicking on her card brought up a detailed view.
The interface transitioned, revealing two panels with distinct color schemes:
[Companion: Wen Ruan (29 years old)]
[Role:] None[Height:] 171 cm[Weight:] 66 kg[Stats:]Physique: 75Stamina: 76Agility: 71Insight: 81(Note: Scoring standards differ between genders.)
[Growth Progress:] 45%On the right panel, a multiple-choice question appeared, prompting Tang Song to make the next decision in Wen Ruan’s development plan.
Tang Song carefully reviewed the choices provided by the system, considering their descriptions and the potential impacts on Wen Ruan’s development:
[Choose Companion Development Mode:]
A: Simple Mode (Leisurely Sophisticate):Focuses on creating a mature and refined companion who loves life and has a stable career. Provides a dedicated assistant team, ensuring a relaxed work-life balance, personal enrichment, lifestyle skill enhancement, and physical beauty maintenance. Requires moderate resources and significant emotional support.
B: Standard Mode (Elite Professional):Builds on her professional background and interests, offering robust career development support and resources. Aims to enhance her influence and network within the media industry while balancing work and leisure. Requires more resources and moderate emotional support.
C: Difficult Mode (Media Queen):Develops her as a career-driven powerhouse, cultivating leadership and team management skills. Provides ample social, training, and industry-specific resources, connecting her with other game characters and expanding her high-end professional network. Focuses on deepening expertise and building a personal brand. Requires substantial financial resources and moderate emotional support.
D: Custom Mode:Allows the player to design a tailored plan, including options like companion roles such as "Canary," "Life Assistant," "Executive Assistant," or "Elite Manager."
[Notes:]
The first three options are based on Wen Ruan’s innate abilities, growth environment, cognition level, and disposition, representing optimal strategies.The choice will determine Wen Ruan’s development trajectory, influencing her comprehensive qualities after completing the plan.Companions reflect the player’s charisma and contribute to their charm rating. Choose the most suitable path wisely.Tang Song weighed his options thoughtfully.
Both Simple Mode and Standard Mode were achievable given his current capabilities. With his 15% equity in Xingyun International and access to Slover Trust funds, he could easily provide Wen Ruan with a life that satisfied both her ambitions and personal fulfillment.
However, Difficult Mode clearly offered the most long-term benefits from his perspective.
If Wen Ruan were to evolve into a "Media Queen," she could act as his intermediary, engaging with other game characters, enterprises, and even Secretary Jin.
A confident and commanding older sister figure with a dominant presence in the media industry would enhance Tang Song’s influence significantly while adding to his charm rating.
Wen Ruan’s exceptional Insight (81), her prestigious academic background, and eight years of media industry experience all indicated that she had the potential to thrive in such a role. Her 45% growth progress further confirmed that she was ready to embark on this path.
But despite the clear advantages, Tang Song felt it was important to leave the final decision to Wen Ruan herself. After all, as her partner, her autonomy and happiness mattered to him.
Evening, 6 PM
After resting and recovering her energy, Wen Ruan freshened up with a shower, applied light makeup, and changed into a casual yet elegant outfit.
By 7 PM, the two walked hand in hand out of the hotel, heading to a nearby upscale barbecue restaurant.
The sizzle of marbled wagyu beef hitting the hot grill filled the air with its enticing aroma.
Tang Song and Wen Ruan each ordered a glass of craft beer. As they grilled meat and clinked glasses, they chatted casually, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere.
Tang Song brought up Wen Ruan’s current career plans and her aspirations for the future.
Taking a sip of her low-alcohol beer, Wen Ruan calmly and articulately shared her thoughts. Following the SMART principle (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound), she outlined her long-term career vision and short-term goals:
Short-term goal: Quickly improve her management skills and adapt to her role as President of Light and Shadow Media.Long-term vision: Lead Light and Shadow Media to deepen its presence in advertising while diversifying its business model, showcasing her personal value in the process.As night fell outside, the neon lights on the streets lit up, mingling with the flow of cars and bustling pedestrians—some couples, others families of three.
Inside the cozy restaurant, the warm glow of the lights bathed the surroundings. The sizzling of grilled meat, clinking beer glasses, and a mix of low and lively chatter created a scene rich with everyday warmth.
On this seemingly ordinary summer night, the air was filled with the unmistakable vibrancy of human life.
Under the table, Wen Ruan’s foot slipped out of her shoe, teasingly brushing against Tang Song’s leg. On the surface, she remained poised and elegant, offering him dipping sauces, feeding him grilled meat, and chatting about the best ways to savor each cut.
The sizzling aroma of premium grilled beef, wrapped in a variety of dipping sauces, exploded with flavor in their mouths, delivering an unparalleled culinary delight.
As Tang Song admired his mature and alluring girlfriend across the table, felt the cozy atmosphere around them, and thought about the gaming assets he had just inherited, he couldn’t help but feel a wave of gratitude.
This, he thought, is the life I love.
Even with a game-like reality, a powerful system, financial freedom, and a charisma level of 60, Tang Song still felt deeply grounded. He was a "normal" Tang Song, drawn to fine food, beauty, good wine, and the pleasures of the world.
9 PM, back at the hotel suite.
The two sat cuddled on the sofa, holding each other affectionately.
Tang Song looked into Wen Ruan’s eyes and spoke calmly: “Ruan Ruan, I understand your plans and aspirations. Now, I’ll give you three options. You can choose whichever you prefer, and I’ll handle the rest.”
Hearing his words, Wen Ruan instantly understood his intention—he wanted to help her map out her future.
Instead of being coy or modest, she tilted her head with a playful smile. “Alright, little brother, go ahead.”
Wen Ruan had once thought of Tang Song as nothing more than a young and capable second-generation heir. She never imagined leaning on him for significant benefits.
But under his influence, she had received the Yan City subsidiary head offer and earned the trust and recognition of Xingyun International Group. Tang Song had, in effect, already transformed her life and current circumstances.
After the afternoon’s intimacy, she felt emotionally and physically open to him, trusting him deeply.
Tang Song pulled Wen Ruan onto his lap and spoke softly:
“First option: I know you love life, enjoy traveling, and seek comfort. I’ll ensure you have all the financial support you need, along with a professional and efficient assistant team. They’ll handle all your work and daily responsibilities, allowing you to live carefree—enjoying life, honing personal skills, and maintaining your beauty and health.”
“Second option: If you want to grow professionally, I’ll provide you with the connections, resources, and background to excel. You’ll be able to balance enjoying life with fulfilling your career ambitions.”
“Third option: This one’s more challenging. I’ll fully support you in developing your career, helping you cultivate leadership and team management skills. I’ll introduce you to my network in the entertainment and media industries, but it’ll require significant effort on your part… In short, it’s the career-driven, strongwoman persona.”
As Tang Song spoke, Wen Ruan listened intently without interrupting, though her gaze flickered with thought.
Initially, her return to Xingyun International was meant to create the image of a career-driven woman to avoid familial pressure about marriage. As a senior executive at a leading media company, she could silence her relatives and ease her parents’ worries about her future.
Her inspiration for this strategy had come from Xie Shuyu at Shimmer Coffee. At 32 years old, Xie Shuyu was single, without a boyfriend, and had used her career as a shield against societal expectations. Wen Ruan had once discussed this approach with her during casual work conversations.
However, Wen Ruan’s circumstances had now shifted dramatically. With Ji Qiuyu’s support, her fabricated career narrative had turned into reality—except her position was even higher.
For Wen Ruan, the first option seemed the most relaxing and enjoyable. She had no doubt about Tang Song’s ability to provide a capable assistant team that would allow her to live freely—cherishing love, friendship, and family without any burdens.
She could invest heavily in her health, frequently play games with Tang Song, travel, and enjoy movies together.
What a wonderful future it would be!
Looking at her enigmatic and handsome boyfriend across from her, Wen Ruan leaned in and kissed his cheek, then smiled.
“I’ll pick the third option. You make the arrangements; I can handle it.”
If she hadn’t seen him playing guitar on stage or learned about Su Yu, she might have chosen the first option without hesitation.
But the thought of the dazzling superstar left her with a faint sense of unease and apprehension.
If Su Yu and Tang Song truly share that kind of relationship, she thought, then I can’t afford to be a “leisurely fish.”
Wen Ruan wanted to elevate herself, to gain enough confidence and strength so that in the future, she wouldn’t feel timid or insecure when facing Tang Song’s other companions or lovers.
Hearing her resolute answer and seeing the determination in her eyes, Tang Song nodded. “Alright, Zhuang Zhuang. Leave the rest to me.”
He opened the system interface and navigated to the [Companion] module.
Selecting [C: Difficult Mode (Media Queen)], he confirmed his choice.
The right-hand panel glimmered as lines of text began to populate the screen:
【"Companion - Wen Ruan" Development Plan Activated】
Engaging New CirclesObjective: Represent 15% equity in Xingyun International Group Co., Ltd. as a proxy shareholder, join the company’s board of directors, and assume the role of President of the subsidiary Light and Shadow Media.Reward: Growth progress +10%, Assistant Team (5 members)Note: The assistant team, trained and provided by Tang Zong Entertainment, includes specialists in daily operations, HR, strategic planning, and business management.Progress: IncompleteAfter reading through the task, Tang Song was about to explain it to Wen Ruan when two prominent system notifications appeared:
【The "Companion" module has been updated based on current permissions and companion progress.】
【Once two companions reach a growth level of 60%, new companion slots will become available.】
Seeing the notifications, Tang Song raised an eyebrow in contemplation.
He quickly pieced it together.
Companions in the system were evidently crucial—not only did they enhance his charm score, but they also provided invaluable blessing buffs.
The system seemed to be enforcing a measure of self-discipline, ensuring he developed his existing companions fully before expanding his roster.
Out of curiosity, he clicked on the portrait card of his other companion, Zhao Yaqian:
【Companion: Zhao Yaqian (19 years old)】
【Role: Canary】【Height: 180 cm, Weight: 65 kg**【Stats:**Physique: 66Stamina: 67Agility: 56Insight: 59【Growth Progress: 40%**【Task ③: The Canary’s Ambition】
Objective: Encourage Zhao Yaqian to seriously reflect on a desired business, product, or service field, select a direction of focus, conduct market research, and build a preliminary professional network in the industry.Reward: Growth progress +10%, Insight +1, Canary’s Skill Pack ×1Progress: IncompleteThis task was understandably challenging for Yaqian. Nearly half a month had passed, and she hadn’t made much headway.
Not good enough! Tang Song thought. As her boyfriend, he felt a responsibility to push her forward and help her grow.
Grinning to himself, he picked up his phone and sent Yaqian a WeChat message:
“Yaqian, how’s that task I gave you going? You haven’t been slacking, have you?”
After hitting send, Tang Song set the phone aside and turned back to Wen Ruan, giving her a playful pinch.
“Ruan Ruan, I have a task for you,” he said.
Wen Ruan raised an eyebrow and eyed him suspiciously. “What kind of task? Let me be clear—I don’t have any weird kinks, so don’t even think about it.”
Tang Song couldn’t help but laugh, teasing her for a moment before getting serious.
“Relax, it’s not anything like that,” he said with a smirk. “Since you’ve chosen the third option, I’ll plan the next steps for you. I hold 15% equity in Xingyun International Group, and I want you to manage it as a proxy shareholder. This will put you on the board of directors.”
Wen Ruan froze, her expression turning blank.
“What do you mean?” she asked slowly. “You… have 15% equity? And you want me to proxy it?”
Xingyun International Group, as a leading advertising and media enterprise, didn’t have a public valuation, but comparable companies suggested a value of over ¥7 billion RMB.
Fifteen percent of that—over ¥1 billion RMB—was a staggering amount.
What’s more, Xingyun International Group had undergone little equity turnover since Tang Zong Entertainment’s investment.
How did Tang Song acquire 15% of its shares?
Wen Ruan had always known her boyfriend was impressive, but this revelation was shocking.
He wasn’t just handing over a massive asset; he was offering her a position on Xingyun’s board of directors—placing her on par with people like Zhang Zihang’s father.
This would elevate her from an ordinary employee to a genuine corporate leader. The weight of such a role was incomparably greater than that of a subsidiary president.
And they weren’t even married or raising a family together yet.
Wen Ruan’s thoughts raced, struggling to comprehend the leap her life was about to take.
Wen Ruan couldn’t believe the depth of trust Tang Song had placed in her.
Taking a deep breath, her eyes trembled as emotions surged within her.
She had underestimated his love for her.
This wasn’t just a lover’s gesture—even married couples didn’t always go to such lengths. The implications behind his actions were monumental.
“Tang Song… I… I love you,” she said, her voice trembling with genuine emotion as boundless affection overwhelmed her heart.
9:40 PM
After showering together, the two embraced each other in the soft bed.
“Goodnight,” Tang Song whispered.
“Goodnight. See you in our dreams,” Wen Ruan murmured softly, exhaustion taking over as she quickly drifted to sleep, her breathing growing steady.
Tang Song’s phone buzzed suddenly, pulling his attention.
It was a reply from Zhao Yaqian:
【Yaqian: “Brother Song, don’t worry. I’ve been working hard. I’ve completed my market research and decided what I want to do. Tomorrow, I’ll meet an industry insider with Xiaoxue—it’s one of my former teachers.”】
Tang Song smiled and responded:
“Good job, Yaqian. Keep it up!”
【Yaqian: “By the way, when are you coming back to Yan City? I’ve been at home studying all week and gained two pounds! Xiaoxue and I are doing exercises together to make up for it.”
【Yaqian: Photo.jpg】
Opening the image, Tang Song saw Yaqian dressed in tight sportswear, her high ponytail bouncing as she posed. Her youthful and energetic figure radiated charm, especially her shapely legs, snugly wrapped in her outfit.
“Very pretty, I love it. I’ll be back in Yan City next Monday. Make sure to finish the task I gave you, and I’ll reward you when I’m back,” he messaged.
After sending the reply, Tang Song chuckled to himself. "What a scoundrel I am," he muttered.
“My two companions… Keep up the good work!”
Putting his phone on silent, Tang Song closed his eyes and reopened the system interface.
Navigating to [Inventory], he selected the [Dream Wedding] item, valued at ¥10 million, and activated it immediately.
With a whoosh, the system interface shimmered, revealing an exquisitely romantic wedding scene:
Crystal chandeliers cast dazzling light, like falling stars.
Colorful flowers lined the aisle—vibrant roses, elegant lilies, and playful daisies weaving a tapestry of radiant hues.
Pink and white balloons floated gently in the air, while a soft white glow emanated throughout, creating the illusion of a fairytale-like realm.
Lines of text appeared:
【A wedding is the ultimate testament to deep love between partners. It symbolizes the transition from romance to a stable, committed marriage.】
【A wedding is also a public declaration of love, witnessed by family and friends, solidifying the bond between lovers and providing them with a profound sense of belonging.】
A prompt followed:
【Please confirm your companion for the dream wedding: 1. Zhao Yaqian; 2. Wen Ruan】
Tang Song selected Wen Ruan.
【Welcome to the Companion Dream Instance – Dream Wedding】
Instance Roles: Groom (Tang Song), Bride (Wen Ruan)Skill Unlocked: [Perception][Perception]: In the dream instance, your senses are heightened, allowing you to better understand the bride’s emotional shifts and experience her genuine feelings about love, marriage, and commitment.Drowsiness washed over him like a tide.
Holding Wen Ruan close, breathing in her soothing fragrance, Tang Song quickly drifted into sleep.
Knock, knock, knock! Urgent knocking resounded through the room.
“Ruan Ruan! Ruan Ruan! Wake up! The sun is up, and the makeup artist is here!” a voice called out hurriedly.
“Got it! Coming!” Wen Ruan yawned, her head groggy.
The room was pitch black. She reached for her phone on the nightstand and glanced at the time: 5:01 AM.
“Mom! It’s only five o’clock! Why are you yelling? Are you crazy?” she shouted toward the door, exasperated.
But as her eyes adjusted to the faint light, something felt off.
She quickly leapt out of bed and turned on the lights.
Her eyes widened in shock.
The room was warm and exquisitely decorated.
Pink chiffon curtains hung gently, casting a dreamy glow under the soft lighting.
On the windowsill sat a vibrant bouquet of fresh flowers.
The vanity was laden with cosmetics and jewelry, neatly arranged. Googlᴇ search NoveI-Fire.ɴet
In one corner, a pile of bags and boxes tied with celebratory ribbons sat waiting.
The bed was covered with a brand-new red silk duvet embroidered with a pair of intricate mandarin ducks. Two festive pillows were perfectly aligned, and next to them lay a slightly worn but beloved plush toy—her favorite childhood companion, lost to a cousin’s mischief during her university years.
Wen Ruan’s heart raced. How is this possible?
The scene before Wen Ruan was so dreamlike, so vividly surreal, that she stood frozen in place.
Knock, knock, knock!
“Ruan Ruan, hurry up and wash up! Get ready for makeup. Tang Song’s wedding entourage will be here to fetch you at 8:30!”
Hearing her mother’s voice and Tang Song’s name, Wen Ruan suddenly pieced it together.
This is… a bridal room? Am I dreaming?
“Alright, Mom, I got it!” she called back, her voice trembling slightly.
Wen Ruan quickly stepped forward and flung the door open.
The living room was festooned in vibrant reds and golds, exuding an unmistakable celebratory air. Her parents were bustling about, while photographers and makeup artists prepared for the day’s events.
The sight was so enchanting and real, so close to the picture she had always longed for, that Wen Ruan didn’t dare pinch herself. She was afraid this dream would shatter.
Tap, tap, tap.
Wearing her slippers, she headed toward the bathroom. Passing through the living room, she subconsciously glanced at herself in the full-length mirror.
And then, she froze.
Her eyes widened, trembling violently.
This… this is me at 25!?
The reflection in the mirror wore her current clothes—a base layer top and loose pajama pants—but her appearance, skin, hairstyle, and energy all belonged to her 25-year-old self.
Back then, she had been working at Xingyun International for three years. The company had just been invested in by Tang Zong Entertainment and was undergoing significant organizational restructuring. As a top graduate with stellar performance, she was on the verge of being promoted to Social Media Operations Manager in the Digital Marketing Department.
She had been vibrant, optimistic, and full of youth, with the future brimming with endless possibilities.
Her vision blurred as tears began to roll down her cheeks.
“Tang Song, how I wish the version of me you had was this one. I wish I could give you the best version of myself to marry.”
“Ruan Ruan, why are you crying?” her mother asked, abandoning her task and rushing over to hold her. “Silly girl, today is your and Tang Song’s big day. You should be smiling. We’re all in Yan City, and anytime you want to come home, just come home. Whatever you want to eat, I’ll still make it for you.”
“Mom…” Wen Ruan whimpered softly, nuzzling against her mother’s embrace.
“What are you two up to?” her father called out, walking over briskly. He handed Wen Ruan a small red booklet. “Ruan Ruan, keep this treasure safe. Don’t just toss it anywhere.”
Wen Ruan blinked, confused, before hurriedly taking the booklet from him.
Opening it, she saw her name printed on the holder’s information page.
“Holder: Wen Ruan.”
“Registration Date: June 26, 2023.”
Turning the page, her breath hitched.
There, alongside her name, was Tang Song’s—his nationality, ID number, and all his details.
Her gaze lingered on the red-background photo of the two of them, side by side, smiling.
Her vision grew misty again, but this time her face lit up with a joyous smile.
“Mr. Tang, even if this is just a dream, I still want to say: come and marry me!”