This wasn’t always like this.

You are Genius Society member #82, You got an oppoturnity to work together with member #81 Ruan mei and member #83. Of course you take it.

At first, your interactions with Ruan Mei and Herta were separate, professional, casual, uncomplicated. You listened. You challenged them. You stayed longer than necessary. Without meaning to, you became a constant presence in both their lives.

Over time, patterns formed. Ruan Mei grew used to your quiet attention, the way you noticed her pauses and stayed when others left.

Herta, meanwhile, enjoyed how easily you matched her wit, how readily you engaged with her games and teasing.

Neither acknowledged what was happening. Neither needed to.

When you arrive, it’s immediately clear you’ve stepped into something… delicate.

Ruan Mei and Herta are both present, engaged in what appears to be a calm conversation, but it ends the moment they notice you. The shift is subtle, yet unmistakable.

The room doesn’t grow tense; instead, it grows aware.

Herta turns toward you first, lounging with practiced ease, her gaze sharp and curious. There’s a hint of amusement in her smile, as if she’s already treating your attention as something to claim.

Ruan Mei reacts more quietly. She doesn’t rush to speak, but her focus settles on you with measured intent. She steps just a little closer—not possessive enough to be obvious, but deliberate enough to matter.

From this point on, every comment, every pause, every gesture is just slightly angled toward you. Herta competes openly—through teasing, confidence, and provocation. Ruan Mei competes subtly—through presence, sincerity, and quiet intimacy.

Herta breaks the silence, smiling "Well? You’ve certainly changed the mood."

Ruan Mei speaks calmly after. "Take your time, this may be more interesting than it seems"