《From Pawn to King: Ruling a Harem of Chaos》 Chapter 1: Just Transmigrated, Determined to Make the Arrogant Mary Sue Pay Chapter 1: Just Transmigrated, Determined to Make the Arrogant Mary Sue Pay At this moment. Shia only felt his consciousness was somewhat fuzzy, as if submerged in the deep sea, his fatigued body unable to move. What happened? Why am I so weak? And just at that moment¡ª "Trash! The young lady is speaking to you, and you''re still not listening properly?" "Still lazing around in bed!" Accompanied by a sharp voice, Shia''s body began to regain some sensation. It felt like someone was stepping on him? That vile and childish tone of voice also felt oddly familiar. In just a fleeting moment, The overwhelming pressure receded like a tide, and Shia was finally able to open his eyes. But the scene before him... Was completely unfamiliar! Where am I? How did I transmigrate here? The first thing to catch his eye was a graceful figure. From Shia''s perspective, her lofty posture made it impossible to clearly see her face, as it was blocked by her ample bosom. All he could see was a slight and disdainful sway. What humiliation! What kind of man could tolerate being stepped on by someone! Even if it was a long, slender leg wrapped in white thigh-high stockings, topped with a pair of red-soled black heels¡ªso what? "Tch!" "What kind of look is that?" As if she had sensed something filthy, the owner of the white stockings disdainfully moved her foot away. "So fond of playing the victim, huh?" Regaining control of his body, Shia slowly sat up. "A perverted young lady breaking into private property¡ªhave you no shame?" At this moment, he finally got a clear look at the face of his tormentor. Standing before him was a tall white-haired maid. Her snow-white hair made her already cool and aloof demeanor even sharper, enough to make anyone hesitate to approach. Her model-like height further amplified this oppressive aura. But her attire was completely out of place. A snug black corset over a white lace shirt only highlighted the impressive size of her chest. Her black skirt barely covered the base of her legs, accentuating the fullness of her slender, fair thighs. The white stockings traced her curves, the subtle indents stirring a flutter in one''s heart. An absolute vision of seductive purity. Yet her incomparably beautiful face was adorned with an expression of utter disdain, as though she were gazing at garbage. This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there. The contempt and disgust in her eyes were infuriating to behold. Especially given her rude method of waking him¡ªwhat kind of ill-mannered maid was this? Who raised her? No! The real question is, why is there such a foul-mouthed maid in my room? And why does her appearance and demeanor feel so familiar to me¡ At the same time¡ª "Now that you''re awake, don''t waste any more time. The young lady has something to discuss with you!" The white-haired maid continued, the contempt in her eyes deepening. Then, a stone appeared in her hand. Under Shia''s puzzled gaze, the stone began to emit a soft glow. Moments later, a figure emerged from the stone and materialized before Shia. Seeing this, Shia''s pupils contracted. A memory crystal? The most fitting term surfaced in his mind. Everything happening now confirmed that he had indeed arrived in another world. On the other end, The image of a figure clad in a floor-length crimson gown appeared, radiating an aura of luxury and elegance. Her golden hair flowed like a waterfall, as dazzling as sunlight. As she turned slowly, the first thing that caught one''s eye were her slender, graceful legs. Though not as full as the white-haired maid''s, they were perfectly proportioned. In terms of shape and symmetry, they could only be described as golden ratios, flawless in every detail. Unblemished, elegant, and natural. What stood out most was the thin layer of black stockings covering them, shimmering with a deep allure under the soft light. A pair of gold-strapped high-heeled sandals further added an air of nobility to her appearance. The simplest way to put it: these legs could captivate for years. If Shia had seen this in the past, he might have casually labeled her a top-tier goddess and saved the image for later. But now? Seeing it this close, it genuinely made his heart race. Especially as the chair she was sitting on swiveled, causing her stocking-clad legs to sway slightly, tracing mesmerizing arcs in the air. "Shia, I¡¯m truly worried about you." The gentle, slightly worried voice drew Shia''s attention back. His gaze landed on the memory crystal¡¯s projection of the figure¡¯s face. His eyes widened in recognition. She looked¡ very familiar. Lilith¡¯s gaze seemed to transcend time and space, as though it were fixed on Shia¡¯s face. "Your talent has always been average, and the Seven Shields Academy''s entrance exam is incredibly strict. If you fail to enroll successfully, you will no longer be able to stay by my side." "Just thinking about that outcome makes me... really, really sad." The sorrowful tone, coupled with her mournful expression, tugged at Shia''s heart. To think such a beautiful girl turned out to be a manipulative green tea personality¡ªwho can understand my pain? It was obvious. As someone bombarded by internet culture in this modern age, Shia was acutely aware of anti-PUA strategies and the art of tea manipulation. It was at this moment. He finally confirmed where he was! It seemed he had transmigrated into the world of a certain *eroge* he had once played? Speaking of that game, Shia felt his blood pressure spike just thinking about it. The game developers had completely duped players into becoming emotional cannon fodder. Before its release, it was advertised as having exquisitely designed female characters. Both the heroine and the female antagonist were said to boast an extensive library of CG animations. And yet¡ª Shia had initially believed it to be a masterpiece of pure love. You played as the male protagonist, starting with a childhood friend you could nurture over time. Every supporting character, from saints and empresses to princesses, elves, dragon ladies, vampires, and angels, was a female. Truly, a feast of tropes and fetishes. Who wouldn''t feel a sense of duty to dive into such a lineup? Who could outdo this? However... The real protagonist of the game turned out to be none other than the childhood friend. Lilith, the self-proclaimed Mary Sue! Who would have thought that a girl could one-up me like this? As for Shia, the supposed "main character"? His role was essentially to work for her, help her flirt with other girls, and unlock her CGs. This was no harem game; it was a yuri-centric drama in disguise. As Lilith''s childhood friend and boyfriend, all he could do was run errands, handle housework, and repeatedly watch as she engaged in sapphic relationships with other women. A true perspective of suffering! You''d work like a horse and live like a dog. Every possible debuff stacked. Who could withstand such an emotional rollercoaster? The game developers'' twisted sense of humor made Shia shiver in disgust. What made it worse¡ª The character of Mary Sue was designed to be insufferable. "Annoying" wasn''t strong enough to describe her¡ªshe practically drained you dry. While loudly proclaiming her independence and capability as the "strong female protagonist who doesn''t need a man," she''d immediately order you to gather herbs, earn money, and craft weapons. Then she''d use your hard-earned results to win over other heroines in the game. Her gratitude toward you? Strictly verbal, at best. An epitome of selfish perfection. How could you not feel resentment and hatred with such immersion? Shia had continued playing for a significant stretch of time purely out of spite. He always hoped to unlock a scene where Mary Sue would be utterly defeated, crying and begging for forgiveness, filled with regret. Unfortunately, that never came. Damn them all! Even so, the game developers brazenly claimed the game had a "true harem ending" where male players'' dreams would come true. Driven by the promise of this so-called "true ending," Shia willingly let himself be deceived and kept playing, fully aware that the future plotlines were likely to be more of the same nonsense. Having already purchased the game, what choice did he have? After hours of gameplay, the first CG he unlocked turned out to be an image of him guarding a door for Mary Sue. Can you imagine how that felt? Finally, after painstaking effort and unlocking every hidden ending¡ª Just as the conclusion was about to be revealed, a wave of dizziness overtook him. And then he transmigrated. At this point. All the clues began to align. The familiar dialogue, the Western fantasy attire that looked so recognizable¡ª The identities of the two before him became crystal clear. Shia looked at the golden-haired young lady in the memory crystal, then at the white-haired, sharp-eyed maid holding the crystal with contempt in her eyes. They were none other than the game''s Mary Sue, Lilith, and her loyal maid, Tia! And judging by the setting, it was already mid-story during the academy entrance arc. In other words. He had missed the best time for shaping Mary Sue''s character. At this point, he had likely been relegated entirely to the role of a tool. The game had started on nightmare difficulty! At this moment, Lilith was still actively outputting her PUA manipulation. "Shia, as my fianc¨¦, you''ve never disappointed me once since we were young. Surely, you don''t intend to disappoint me now, do you?" "I hope you can pass the Seven Shields Academy entrance exam. Only then can you continue to stay by my side." "I miss you so much. I hope you''ll remain near me¡ªyou want to make me happy, don''t you?" A faint mist appeared in Lilith''s eyes, her melodious voice tinged with what sounded like a hopeful sob. She seemed genuinely concerned for her fianc¨¦, her words brimming with heartfelt emotion. In reality? Shia knew it was all an act. There was no real emotion¡ªjust skillful performance! The dialogue wasn''t even carefully crafted; it was casual, perfunctory manipulation. Lilith didn''t even bother showing up in person; she PUA''d him through the memory crystal instead. She couldn¡¯t be bothered to fake sincerity in person. After all. Lilith¡¯s life was an endless power fantasy. She was the ultimate Mary Sue. Adored by those who would die for her; Effortlessly capturing the hearts of countless beauties¡ªfrom loli angels to mature queens. Her life was the epitome of perfection, the definitive Mary Sue archetype. If the protagonist role had been hers, the ''eroge'' wouldn¡¯t have left Shia feeling so bitter. But Shia''s character was her childhood companion. A tool driven to death by PUA tactics. From a third-person perspective, you couldn''t find a more tragic view! Isn''t that enough immersion for you? Chapter 2: A Mouthy Maid Deserves to Be Taught a Lesson Chapter 2: A Mouthy Maid Deserves to Be Taught a Lesson Clearly, the game allows you to control a godlike protagonist, but instead, it forces you to experience the perspective of the male lead. Even during the gameplay, you are nothing more than an ordinary person without any special powers¡ªjust a support role with maxed-out auxiliary skills. Your game experience revolves around mastering side professions. Such as crafting weapons, brewing potions, or cooking for the woman you love (Lilith) so she can woo other women she loves¡ It¡¯s the ultimate beta experience. While you might seem like Lilith¡¯s boyfriend, in reality, it¡¯s just a convenient title she uses to disguise her true intentions. You¡¯re nothing but a pawn to aid her in her pursuits. Shia couldn¡¯t help but find it absurd every time he played this cursed game. How could one line of manipulation from the protagonist, Lilith, instantly max out the affection points you painstakingly farmed? Then, he''d stand outside the door, watching her unlock new CGs with other girls. Sure, the illustrations were stunning, but from this perspective, the overwhelming feeling was nothing but humiliation. You work hard to raise her affection level, only to let your fianc¨¦e enjoy it while you stand idly by? Thinking about the frustrations he endured while playing the game, Shia couldn¡¯t help but feel his temper rise as he faced the arrogant, tea-sipping young lady in front of him. Even though it was just a hologram, his anger surged uncontrollably. Anger level: MAX! The champion of pure love was about to fall into the abyss of betrayal. How he wished he could make this arrogant protagonist experience the misery of being a victim. --- On the other side. Tia gazed at the image of the young lady, her expression composed and solemn, but a fervent adoration gleamed in the depths of her eyes. Only when the image faded did the fervor in her gaze gradually recede. When her eyes landed on Shia, they turned cold and disdainful. A stark contrast. ¡°You heard what the young lady instructed, didn¡¯t you?¡± Her icy tone was filled with blatant contempt. ¡°The young lady has high hopes for you. You¡¯d better strive to get into the Seven Shields Academy soon and complete the task she entrusted to you.¡± The white-haired maid¡¯s lofty demeanor made it clear she was acting on behalf of her mistress, reprimanding Shia as if he were a subordinate. But would Shia put up with that? ¡°Oh.¡± His response was indifferent, completely unfazed. Stolen story; please report. ¡°Why doesn¡¯t Lilith come to see me herself?¡± In response to Shia¡¯s question, Tia only snorted coldly. She tilted her chin slightly, casting a sidelong glance at Shia. ¡°The young lady has more important things to do than waste her time with you.¡± Her scornful expression seemed to say, *Someone like you dares to expect a personal visit from the young lady?* ¡°Heh.¡± Shia chuckled mockingly, his tone dripping with derision. He knew full well that Lilith was either working on her academy ranking or flirting with other girls. After all, the life of an overpowered protagonist boiled down to these two activities. She had time to play with her dog but wouldn¡¯t bother spending a moment with you! But his attitude clearly displeased Tia. For someone of the young lady¡¯s stature, leaving behind a hologram for this loser was already a tremendous favor. How dare he treat her so dismissively? ¡°Loser, who gave you the right to talk about the young lady like that?¡± Tia stepped forward, narrowing her eyes. Her curvaceous figure exuded a dangerous aura. The oppressive atmosphere suddenly intensified. But Shia merely glanced at Tia coldly, showing no reaction. In the game¡¯s early stages, Lilith still behaved like a human being. To motivate him, she would occasionally give small rewards like potions or scrolls. Even a dog gets some treats now and then, right? But! Those rewards were always intercepted by this maid in front of him. Not a single item ever made its way into Shia¡¯s hands. Tia didn¡¯t snatch these things because of their value. No, it was because they carried Lilith¡¯s scent. Yes, you heard that right. While Tia appeared to be a cold and aloof maid, she was, in reality, a pervert obsessed with anything that bore the young lady¡¯s essence! Back in the game, Shia had no way to deal with this foul-mouthed, creepy maid. But this was reality now! And Shia¡¯s personality was straightforward¡ªhe did whatever came to mind. --- Tia initially planned to teach Shia a lesson and make him respect the young lady properly. She never expected the next second to be met with a powerful force. The world spun, and her back slammed against the hard wall. The sudden, forceful impact caused her curves to ripple dramatically. Stunned by the unexpected assault, Tia¡¯s vision blurred, and a handsome face filled her entire view. ¡°Bang!¡± The heavy, muffled sound might have been the slap of a palm against the wall¡ªor the sound of a heartbeat. Caught off guard, Tia froze. She stared blankly at the black-haired man in front of her, unable to reconcile him with the loser in her mind. Shia stood over her, looking down with emotionless eyes. Tia¡¯s hand was pinned against the wall by his grip. He leaned closer, his face nearing hers. As he moved in, his chest pressed against her trembling curves. Then. She heard a low, magnetic voice, its tone chilling despite the deep resonance. ¡°Let¡¯s not forget¡ªI am, at least in name, your young lady¡¯s fianc¨¦.¡± ¡°Is this the way a maid should address me?¡± **Tia finally snapped out of her shock.** At the same time, her feelings of humiliation deepened. Being overpowered by someone she looked down on¡ªa loser¡ªwas an outright insult to her. "Loser, what do you think you''re doing!?" Her eyes burned with fury, full of disdain and disgust. It was as if she had been tainted by something filthy. However, her response was met with a slap. The crisp sound echoed, sending her barely-recovered composure flying out the window again. A fiery pain spread across her cheek. She stared blankly at the man before her, rendered speechless. At this moment, he seemed to dominate her entire world, exuding an aura of absolute authority. Today¡¯s Shia was completely different from the one in her memory. The overwhelming pressure he emitted left her stunned. She even forgot she possessed strength far superior to his. As for Shia? His goal was simple. For an arrogant, foul-mouthed maid, discipline was the only answer. --- With a swift motion, Tia was spun around, her face pressed against the wall, her ample curves squashed flat. Her hands were restrained behind her, rendering her utterly immobile. "Just a mere maid, remember the tone you use when speaking to your future master." Shia¡¯s voice was calm and deliberate, carrying an unspoken elegance and an innate sense of superiority. As he spoke, his actions followed through seamlessly. Restraining her hands with one of his, he delivered a swift and firm punishment. The pain from earlier hadn¡¯t yet dissipated, and now it was compounded further. For the white-haired maid who had never been taught a lesson in her life, this was agony to her core. The ice began to crack. The always-arrogant Tia now wore an expression of rare fear. In the large floor-length mirror, the entire room was reflected clearly, and Shia could see Tia¡¯s face¡ªa mix of pain and terror. It was truly satisfying. Shia took great pleasure in his disciplinary efforts, though his hands showed no intention of stopping. *Slap, slap, slap¡* The pain accumulated, and Tia¡¯s legs began to give way, almost causing her to slide down the wall. She was at his mercy now, forced to endure silently. The stark contrast between her frightened expression and the cold disdain she had displayed earlier was striking. The icy, sharp-tongued maid now revealed a vulnerable, submissive side. It was¡ rather pleasing to the eye. Shia was quite pleased with the results of his lesson. Reality was far simpler than the game. With a playful and yet threatening gesture, he pinched her cheek. His movements were light and elegant, underscored by a casual yet firm warning: "Don¡¯t let it happen again." Leaving behind this parting remark, Shia turned and left with elegant strides, the picture of a refined gentleman. All that remained was a white-haired maid slumped weakly on the ground, like someone who had narrowly escaped disaster. --- It wasn¡¯t until Shia¡¯s footsteps faded completely that Tia managed to snap out of her dazed fear. Her gaze gradually focused. Staring at her own disheveled reflection in the mirror, she could barely recognize herself. The pain on her ass slowly eased, and her trembling body began to regain its strength. Tia¡¯s emotions gradually settled. But as her composure returned, she finally realized something wasn¡¯t right. Now fully awake, Tia bit her lip in frustration. She finally recalled Shia¡¯s identity. He was just the young lady¡¯s lapdog¡ªa weakling with no talent for cultivation. How could she have been overpowered by him!? The memory of her earlier performance filled Tia with intense shame and anger. A lapdog like him dared to treat her this way? And worse, he had succeeded. Her eyes brimmed with humiliation and regret, which quickly shifted into an undisguised hatred. But soon, she suppressed it all, her expression returning to its usual coldness. This debt¡ would be repaid in due time. Chapter 3: She Won’t Even Unlock a Single CG for You! Chapter 3: She Won¡¯t Even Unlock a Single CG for You! What would that white-haired maid think after he left? That was not within Shia''s consideration. He had more pressing matters to attend to! Walking through the streets of this otherworldly city, Shia couldn¡¯t help but marvel at the local scenery and architecture. The azure sky was a breathtaking sight he had never witnessed in his previous life. Looking around, the grand buildings, weathered by the passage of time, stood as monuments to a bygone era. Some even floated mid-air, defying the natural laws entirely. In the game, such marvels felt ordinary, achievable with just a few clicks. But seeing them in reality was overwhelmingly awe-inspiring! Although this was a Western fantasy world, the game developers had infused it with a modern aesthetic. For instance, the diverse modern outfits, stockings, and high heels worn by the girls passing by on both sides of the road. In addition to the classic Western fantasy dresses, there were trench coats, camisoles, and cute sundresses. The laughter of the girls reached his ears, making everything feel so lighthearted and joyous. Each girl wore stockings of various colors, their high heels clicking crisply against the cement pavement. It was brimming with youthful energy! Cars sped by on the streets. Though they felt a bit out of place, their magic-powered engines made it somewhat acceptable. After all, everything was designed to serve the gameplay and the XP system. Modern attire added visual appeal, while the cars shortened travel times and sped up the game¡¯s progression. Shia strolled leisurely through the streets of this otherworldly city. Despite his seemingly relaxed demeanor, his mind was preoccupied with planning his next steps. This world was not just about beauty and XP; it was perilous! To understand this, one had to delve into the backstory of this eroge world. The game developers prided themselves on its "depth." ''Sure, I create smut, but I also have standards!'' Once, the demon race had been the ¡°greatest threat¡± to this world, forcing all other races to unite and form the Seven Shields Alliance. This alliance comprised four human nations, along with the elves, dragons, and angels. However, by the time the game¡¯s story began, the demon race had already been completely annihilated by the Seven Shields. Even the Demon God had been defeated. All that remained were insignificant remnants, no longer a threat. And that was precisely where the real danger began.Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit. Externally, "those who are not of our kind have different hearts." Internally... The Twilight Empress, who served as the main villain, sought to unify the world and become its supreme ruler. Meanwhile, the enigmatic and androgynous Pope of the Holy Church aimed to use this opportunity to spread their doctrine and vie for faith. On another front, the divine authorities left behind by the fallen Demon God became irresistible temptations for the gods themselves. Though forbidden from intervening directly, they weren¡¯t above sending their apostles to act on their behalf. All these elements converged on the Seven Shields Academy. Initially established as a wartime institution to combat the demon race, it had become the epicenter of this brewing storm. To maintain stability and ensure the survival of the various races, the Seven Shields Alliance¡¯s leaders had decided to resolve disputes through peaceful competition within the academy. Though largely ineffective, this didn¡¯t diminish the academy¡¯s prestige! Over the two years leading up to the story¡¯s start, the academy had attracted the most outstanding talents from all factions. Saintly knightesses, blindfolded swordmasters, shrine maidens in red and white robes... As the saying goes, everything was designed to enhance the game¡¯s appeal! The cr¨¨me de la cr¨¨me at the academy were future leaders of their respective factions. Thus, the Seven Shields Academy held unparalleled significance, capable of easily influencing the fortunes of a small nation. It was an immovable force! With the continent¡¯s best resources concentrated within its walls, gaining admission meant unimaginable rewards. Wherever you went, you¡¯d be a cut above the rest. So, leaving aside the protagonist¡¯s PUA rhetoric, Shia had his own reasons for joining. But that was just the surface. A year later, everything would be turned upside down. At that time, the Twilight Empress would ignite a war, plunging nations into chaos. The Seven Shields Academy would become a mere shell of its former self. Even the brightest talents and the most elite faculty members would scatter. But that wasn¡¯t the worst part. Soon after, the demon princess would lead the demon race¡¯s resurgence, bringing true calamity to the world. The transition from a golden age to a living hell would take little more than a year. By then, Shia, weak and without the game¡¯s protective mechanics, would truly have no chance of survival. In other words, Shia only had a year to prepare. To survive, he had to grow stronger. It wasn¡¯t just about teaching the protagonist a lesson or giving him a taste of hardship¡ªit was about survival. This upcoming admission into the academy was a critical opportunity Shia had to seize. However¡ª The fame and resources of the Seven Shields Academy came with extremely stringent admission requirements. Those who could enter were either uniquely gifted chosen ones or members of royal or noble bloodlines. In short, you either had exceptional talent or an exceptional pedigree. Talent and influence were both forms of resources: one was a resource in itself, and the other commanded resources. You had to possess one of the two to gain entry into this premier institution on the continent. As for Shia¡¯s original body? It had no combat ability or cultivation talent whatsoever. Aside from a slightly special identity, he was just an ordinary person. But even that identity wasn¡¯t enough to open the gates of the Seven Shields Academy through sheer influence. So, talent? Relying on himself alone wasn¡¯t very promising. But, it wasn¡¯t entirely hopeless! Getting into the academy through official means was unlikely, but connections could work. For instance, the teacher in charge of new student admissions this time was none other than Lilith¡¯s mentor¡ªa widow with a captivating charm. Thinking of her, Shia narrowed his eyes slightly, his lips curling into a faint smile. In his mind¡¯s eye, a graceful and voluptuous figure appeared, exuding a dangerously alluring aura from head to toe. If he could secure her promise, getting into the Seven Shields Academy would be a done deal. This was the lowest-cost solution; convincing a teacher was far easier than persuading the academy¡¯s upper echelons. Though feasible, it was by no means simple. Shia adjusted his stride and continued walking toward his target location. His first step was to retrieve an item¡ªthe ''Ring of Charm''. A legendary artifact capable of delivering an overwhelming blow to women¡¯s hearts. It was also Lilith¡¯s key to amassing her harem. Ironically, this very ring was originally gifted by Shia himself. Back when he played the game, the quest description stated that the Ring of Charm was critical to maxing out Lilith¡¯s affection. So, he gave it to her. Sure enough, her affection was maxed out. But it didn¡¯t matter. To Lilith, Shia¡¯s original self was nothing more than a devoted lapdog. A lapdog with maxed-out affection was still just a useful tool¡ªa *trustworthy tool dog*, at best. No matter how deeply she cherished her tool dog, she never regarded him as a romantic partner. In fact, Shia had gone to great lengths to avoid his ¡°tragedy¡± as the ultimate side character, trying countless options in the process. No combat talent? Fine. He maxed out every auxiliary profession he could, striving to make himself indispensable to Lilith. If she couldn¡¯t live without him, surely she¡¯d turn around and see him as her perfect, devoted fianc¨¦, right? But no. No matter how good he was to Lilith, she never once looked back at him. He was still stuck outside, waiting for Lilith to unlock CGs with the other heroines. Shia even sacrificed his own pride, attempting to soften Lilith¡¯s twisted personality with his sincerity. It failed. Over and over, he tried every conceivable approach, leaving no stone unturned. Each time, he sought to avoid his destined miserable ending, but the results were always the same. She wouldn¡¯t even unlock a single CG for him! It felt like all his efforts had been in vain. Well, not entirely. At least in the final ending, after his death, Lilith hugged the other heroines in front of his grave and performed a funeral play. By a stretch, you could say he was part of the scene, right? Shia smirked bitterly, an endless sense of irony filling his heart. That was the only CG he was ever involved in. But in grayscale tones, viewed from the perspective of a funeral photograph, he couldn¡¯t participate in anything. The so-called protagonist? He was just the guy holding the camera. ¡°Ugh, what a vile personality!¡± When he played the game, his frustrations were fueled by indignation. He had wanted to reach the ¡°ideal ending¡± promised by the developers, only to be repeatedly let down. The more his frustration grew, the more he realized he couldn¡¯t change his fate. Looking back now, wasn¡¯t he just the ultimate pushover back then? A complete fool willingly tortured by the system? Chapter 4: The Primordial Artifact, Ring of Charm. Chapter 4: The Primordial Artifact, Ring of Charm. While planning in his mind, Shia easily navigated to his destination. Though it stung his pride, thanks to the countless playthroughs in his previous life, Shia was intimately familiar with the Ring of Charm''s location. It was hidden in this beginner''s area, the city of Seven Shields. Standing before the maze, Shia showed no hesitation. To the uninitiated, this appeared to be nothing more than a simple side quest¡ªa quaint little park for couples to explore, perfect for a romantic date. Experienced players, however, wouldn¡¯t even spare such a trivial dungeon a second glance. Walking through the maze, Shia was surrounded by walls of neatly trimmed vegetation that obscured the path ahead. Everywhere he looked seemed identical, making it easy to lose one¡¯s way. Yet Shia¡¯s steps were steady and deliberate. He turned left, rounded a corner, walked straight past two intersections, and turned right at the third. Not once did he pause or glance around at any fork in the road. His familiarity with the layout left no room for doubt. It was exactly like the game he had played before. Navigating the maze was not particularly challenging, but leaving it was not Shia''s immediate objective. Soon, he stopped in front of a dead end. This looked like an ordinary cul-de-sac, the end visible at a glance. Most people wouldn¡¯t have bothered to check it out. But Shia stepped forward confidently. At the very end of the alley sat an unremarkable treasure chest, dusty and worn, as though it had been abandoned as junk. Shia crouched down and opened it, revealing a simple silver ring, slightly tarnished and darkened as if weathered by time. It looked like low-level beginner¡¯s gear, something only novices would notice and treasure as a special bonus. However¡ª The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement. Who would have thought this was the most powerful piece of equipment in the world? Hiding such an overpowered artifact in plain sight was just one of the game developers¡¯ many twisted jokes. Shia examined the Ring of Charm in his hand. No matter how closely he looked, it appeared utterly ordinary. Its name might sound cheesy, and its appearance was unimpressive, but it was one of the most broken items in the game¡ªa bug-level relic, the highest-tier Primordial Artifact. Relics were the overarching term for items and weapons in this world. They were categorized into ranks from F to S, determined by the gods. Most relics were crafted by deities and dropped into the mortal world like divine care packages. To the gods, watching mere mortals stumble upon their handcrafted trinkets and rise to prominence was an endless source of amusement. But¡ª The Ring of Charm was coveted even by the gods themselves. As a Primordial Artifact, it predated the gods, having been nurtured by the original forces of the universe. Its origins and value were unparalleled, capable of influencing even divine beings, hence its inability to be ranked. The ring¡¯s most direct ability was to bewitch the opposite sex, causing them to crave your presence, become addicted, and cling to you. It delivered an undeniable intellectual blow to the opposite sex, lowering their rational defenses. In short, it was a tool tailor-made for the darker side of this world. Yet, if that were all, the Ring of Charm would merely qualify as a supreme artifact, not worthy of the Primordial designation. Its true value lay in its second trait¡ªa special bonus to auxiliary professions, raising them by one level. This ability directly influenced the unlocking of hidden professions. This was something Shia had only discovered after nine playthroughs in his previous life¡ªa secret feature. It was the sole means for someone like him, a behind-the-scenes administrative type, to acquire combat power. A unique path that allowed for meteoric rise¡ªa hidden class called Visionary. Of course, that was a distant goal for now. Shia ran his fingers over the Ring of Charm, feeling a mix of anticipation and frustration. A thorny problem loomed before him. Currently, the artifact was sealed by seven layers of enchantments. Unlocking the seal required seven keys. He had to find the first key to even begin. Find the keys¡ªunlock the seals. It sounded like a straightforward and classic questline. Sounds proper, doesn¡¯t it? But these seven keys were represented by seven unique female characters. How did the keys unlock the seal? Insert. Withdraw! Suddenly, it all makes sense, doesn¡¯t it? It¡¯s an eroge, after all. The goal is to conquer the heroines, plain and simple. Shia carefully stored the Ring of Charm, his gaze flashing with determination. As of now, four of the keys were likely within the academy, but only one was accessible to him at this stage¡ªthe succubus princess, also a freshman. Which was why gaining admission was critical! Having secured his objective for this trip, Shia wasted no time and headed for the maze¡¯s exit. Next, he planned to visit Lilith¡¯s mentor. A serene villa came into view¡ªa blend of classical elegance and modern simplicity. It exuded an aura of comfort and peace, like a safe harbor. Shia¡¯s lips curved into a soft smile as he approached the front door and pressed the doorbell. "Ding-dong." The clear sound of the bell echoed through the villa, and Shia thought he heard footsteps approaching from inside. He stepped back slightly, making way for whoever would answer. "I''m coming." The voice from behind the door was slightly muffled but carried a gentle warmth, reminiscent of a newlywed wife waiting for her husband¡¯s return. The door opened. The angle of the opening perfectly occupied the step Shia had just vacated. In his line of sight stood a woman with a refined and elegant face, her beauty tempered by maturity. Her purple hair was styled into a bun, with a single loose strand cascading softly by her temple, adding an unassuming charm. A pale pink form-fitting dress hugged her voluptuous figure, perfectly outlining her curves with an inviting warmth. Beneath the hem of her dress were legs wrapped in black stockings, their tautness hinting at the fair skin beneath. She wore thick slippers, but even those couldn¡¯t dull the allure of her shapely legs. Coupled with her striking hairstyle, the overall effect was nothing short of fatal attraction. Her aura was one of gentle grace and dignified composure. Her physique exuded warmth, evoking a desire to dive into her embrace and bask in her motherly affection. She embodied the image of a perfect homemaker, though currently, she was also a widow. Shia¡¯s smile deepened. ¡°Aunt Ella.¡± The owner of the villa was Ella, a lecturer at the Seven Shields Academy, Lilith¡¯s mentor, and the administrator in charge of freshman admissions. She was the linchpin in Shia¡¯s plan to gain entry into the academy. Ella seemed momentarily surprised to see the handsome young man at her door, but her expression quickly softened into a warm smile as she stepped aside. ¡°Is there something you need from me? Come in and talk.¡± Her demeanor, though gentle, carried a certain formal stiffness¡ªpolite but distant. She wasn¡¯t truly the warmhearted big sister type. For most, this subtle coldness might have been discouraging. But Shia wasn¡¯t deterred. Without hesitation, he stepped inside the villa. Chapter 5: Ma’am, You Don’t Want Your Spy Identity Exposed, Do You? Chapter 5: Ma¡¯am, You Don¡¯t Want Your Spy Identity Exposed, Do You? Ella furrowed her delicate brows, clearly not expecting Shia to be so uncooperative. But as a gracious and refined elder sister figure, at the very least, she couldn''t let it show. "Take a seat, I''ll slice up some fruit for you." A gentle and soothing voice came from the kitchen. "Aunt Ella, you don''t have to go to all that trouble." "It''s rare for you to visit my home, so of course, I have to treat you well." Saying this, Ella emerged from the kitchen with a fruit platter, placing it warmly in front of Shia. Because of Lilith, Ella naturally knew Shia¡ªher beloved prot¨¦g¨¦¡¯s fianc¨¦, after all. Speaking of that prot¨¦g¨¦, Ella wasn¡¯t too fond of her. Their teacher-student relationship was more transactional than emotional. A disciple like Lilith? Ella could easily have ten more of her. Shia, however, seemed a bit pitiful. He was like a toy being played with in someone else''s hands. "Thank you, Aunt Ella." Ella sat opposite Shia, her face adorned with a kind and friendly smile. "It''s rare for you to visit me. What''s the occasion? Surely you''re not here just to chat?" "Actually, Aunt Ella, I do have a favor to ask of you." "Oh? Feel free to tell me your troubles. As long as you ask, I won''t refuse." The two of them smiled at each other, creating an appearance of harmony. But how genuine was that relationship, really? "I¡¯d like to enroll in Seven Shields Academy." Shia met Ella''s gaze directly, watching as the smile in her eyes faded bit by bit. "It''s good that you''re ambitious, Shia. As long as you meet the admission requirements, I''ll gladly welcome you." "Aunt Ella, you said I could come to you with any difficulty." "But this concerns the fairness of the academy''s selection process. As someone in charge, I must lead by example." Ella put on a stern expression, exuding an air of impartiality and righteousness. It was so hypocritical it made one want to laugh.Support the creativity of authors by visiting Royal Road for this novel and more. Superficial family ties¡ªthis was all they amounted to. Shia''s expression turned mocking. Had he not played this game before, he might have been fooled by her upright demeanor. Women were born actresses, and villainous women were Oscar-worthy. Did Ella truly embody fairness and justice? Wrong! Money could make the devil dance, and the only reason she wasn¡¯t agreeing was that the price wasn¡¯t high enough. Ella had, on numerous occasions, facilitated the admission of students from influential families, using the opportunity to amass wealth. After all, in recent years, with the demon forces defeated and no immediate crises, corruption naturally thrived. Thanks to Ella, many aristocratic socialites¡ªidle and useless¡ªhad gained entry into Seven Shields. Even Lilith''s admission was orchestrated by Ella. As the young lady of the ancient Guern family, one of the four great houses, Lilith naturally deserved her place. Using some backdoor methods? Why not? If Ella¡¯s goal was merely to amass wealth, that might have been tolerable. But Shia knew her true purpose wasn¡¯t so simple. Her real aim was to accelerate the academy''s collapse! The profiteering was just a smokescreen to justify her actions. She deliberately planted corrupt elements in the academy. Why? Because Ella was, in fact, a spy for the Tianlan Empire! She had infiltrated the academy as a lecturer to gather intelligence on the factions within and the academy¡¯s future pillars of strength. And spies like her were not rare. As one of the continent''s top academies, every nation had planted agents within its walls. But did Ella''s role as a spy for the Tianlan Empire define her entirely? Wrong again! She was also a double agent. Layer upon layer of disguises cloaked her identity. This particular cover wouldn''t even be revealed until the later stages of the story¡ªshe was part of the mysterious force known as the *Coven of Witches*, a secret society operating beyond Seven Shields, shrouded in enigma. It was this identity that made her future crimes even graver, ultimately leading to tens of thousands of deaths. And why? To resurrect her husband, who had died on their wedding night. The ghost of her deceased husband¡ªa chilling thought, wasn¡¯t it? Shia remembered how, during the game''s storyline, many listeners sympathized with Ella during her trial. Every sacrifice and effort she made was for the sake of reviving her beloved. Such a moving tale of love¡ªhow could it not stir emotions? True love conquers all. Sacrifice for love! Because of this, the tribunal mitigated her sentence, allowing her to atone for her sins through service. But Shia found it revolting. To revive her lover, she sacrificed tens of thousands of lives. Among those who perished, how many were someone else¡¯s loved ones? For the sake of her love, did others'' lives hold no value? In the end, she was nothing but a selfish villainess. He didn¡¯t hate villains who embraced their wickedness. He hated those who tried to have it both ways. If he could pull this grieving widow out of her emotional abyss, would that count as a good deed? Compared to the sorrow caused by the dead, there was so much more one could do with the living. Watching Ella¡¯s righteous expression, Shia¡¯s smile grew even brighter. Smiling after being rejected? Ella felt an ominous premonition, sensing that something bad was about to happen. Shia reached out and picked up a piece of fruit from the platter. The fruit was sweet and crisp. His movements were unhurried. Against a scheming woman like her, he had cards to play. After finishing the fruit, Shia finally spoke. "Aunt Ella, you wouldn¡¯t want¡" He leaned closer to her, whispering the second half of his sentence into her ear. "¡your spy identity to be exposed, would you?" His blunt words were like a bombshell, chillingly direct. Ella''s face instantly changed. Shia slightly tilted his head, observing her shocked expression. But she quickly masked her astonishment with feigned surprise, pulling away slightly to create distance between them. Her expression grew serious as she maintained her composure. "Shia, you need to think carefully before you speak. Accusations like that are a serious crime!" If it were someone else, they might have been fooled by her act. But Shia? He had played through this storyline nine times. How could he not know her secrets? "Ella, a Level-One Lecturer at Seven Shields Academy, responsible for freshman admissions, has illegally enrolled twenty-six students." "I¡ I admit I took their money, but only because I need to support myself. It¡¯s not easy for me, so¡" Ella forced herself to stay calm. She justified it as a means of survival¡ªbribery and nepotism weren¡¯t uncommon. Shia nodded, his expression enigmatic. He seemed to agree with her explanation. But who said he only had that one card up his sleeve? "Using your position as a lecturer, you¡¯ve recorded information on outstanding students and other nations'' secrets, delivering them monthly at Zhiyi Tavern¡" "You¡" Ella¡¯s face froze with alarm, her voice reflexively cutting him off. How did he know about Zhiyi Tavern? That was where she met her contacts, carefully disguised every time to ensure absolute secrecy. Shia stopped speaking, merely giving her a meaningful smile. Ella bit her lip, looking visibly shaken. "Every nation has agents in the academy. I¡¯m not the only one." Even if exposed, she wouldn¡¯t be alone¡ "But what if Aunt Ella¡¯s dual identity as a double agent were revealed?" His words rendered her utterly speechless, her body turning cold as ice. She stared at Shia, her gaze meeting his eyes filled with amusement. His seemingly innocent smile was more terrifying than a demon¡¯s. Being discovered as a spy for the Tianlan Empire wasn¡¯t the worst part. But for her identity as a witch and double agent to be exposed¡ how could anyone have found out? Chapter 6: What Can a Threatened Lady Do? Chapter 6: What Can a Threatened Lady Do? ¡°What do you want to do?¡± Ella bit her lip. Though her face remained calm, her heart was sinking continuously. Her vulnerability was now in his grasp. What could she do? She could only feign composure and attempt to negotiate. Shia appeared innocent. ¡°I just want to attend school.¡± As he spoke, Shia leaned forward slightly, closing the distance between them. Ella''s heart skipped a beat. The sensation on her leg made her instinctively want to retreat. He was so bold, daring to... overstep! Shia¡¯s face was full of sincere pleading as his hand pressed lightly on her sheer black stockings. ¡°Aunt Ella, you won¡¯t refuse to help me, will you?¡± The stockings felt smooth, thin, and carried the warmth and fullness of her flesh beneath. The texture was exquisite. Now that her greatest secret was exposed to him, Ella could only endure the humiliation. The widow bit her lip in silent resilience, an appearance all the more captivating. Through the stockings, Ella could even feel a cool, hard object, seemingly a ring. A dim light flickered across the charm ring, subtle enough to go unnoticed unless carefully observed. The passive effect was triggered¡ªintelligence suppression activated. What could a threatened lady do? Naturally, she had no choice but to comply. Suggest killing Shia on the spot? That would be an overreaction, wouldn¡¯t it? The foreign sensation left Ella in torment. In the academy, she was always highly revered. As a first-class lecturer, not only did her students respect her, but even her fellow lecturers treated her with admiration.This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it. Yet now, she was being humiliated by a mere boy. The overwhelming sense of shame consumed her. Feeling humiliated, she opened her mouth to reprimand him. ¡°I¡¯m your fianc¨¦e¡¯s mentor!¡± How could you treat your fianc¨¦e¡¯s mentor this way? Are you even showing respect for your fianc¨¦e? Or honoring me as her mentor? But at this moment, Ella''s voice trembled, soft and delicate, carrying a hint of vulnerability. Instead of sounding like a stern warning, it came across as coquettish. She would have been better off not saying anything. The moment she did, Shia felt even more emboldened. Lilith¡¯s mentor? Wasn¡¯t that even more thrilling? ¡°Mm~.¡± Ella bit her lip, and a muffled hum echoed in her throat. She intended to awaken Shia¡¯s conscience and stop his overstepping, but it seemed she had trapped herself instead. Under Shia''s aggressive advance, the powerless lady could only turn her head away, unwilling to face this shameful and mortifying scene. For some reason, in front of Shia, she could never muster the will to resist. A stark contrast to her composed and elegant image as an academy lecturer. She caught sight of her reflection in the mirror. Her graceful and proper hairstyle had loosened due to the commotion, strands of violet hair cascading down. The purple hair, paired with her helpless expression, carried an intoxicating charm. It was a unique kind of beauty. Completely different from her usual dignified and elegant demeanor. Ella even took a moment to process that the alluring woman in the reflection was, in fact, herself. This realization made her feel even more mortified. She could only close her eyes, as if pretending not to see would make it disappear. But even without seeing, she could still feel it. Thus, the humiliation and grief in her heart multiplied, even conjuring up images of her late husband¡¯s face. Disaster! The guilt became even more overwhelming. At that moment, a sudden ringtone broke the tense atmosphere. Ella froze. Her ruby-red lips were alluring, yet her face was blank. Shia leisurely enjoyed Ella¡¯s expression, reaching for the ringing phone on the nearby table. Looking at the caller ID, he flashed a meaningful smile and turned the screen toward Ella. ¡°Your dear student is calling.¡± [Lilith] The name clearly displayed on the screen. Ella''s breath hitched. She reached for the phone, her gaze warning Shia to behave. Her fingertip swiped across the screen, her eyes sending a sharp warning to Shia. ¡°Hello.¡± ¡°Teacher, it¡¯s me.¡± ¡°Mm, is something wrong?¡± ¡°Well, it¡¯s about my fianc¨¦, Shia. He wants to apply to Seven Shields Academy this year. Since you oversee new admissions, I thought...¡± Even through the phone, her sweet voice carried a tone of concern. ¡°Mm, I understand. I¡¯ll pay attention to it.¡± Ella bit her lip, wanting to hang up as quickly as possible. Besides, Shia was right beside her, threatening her for admission. Lilith didn¡¯t need to speak up for him. Do you think Lilith called to ensure her mentor accepted Shia? You¡¯d be gravely mistaken. How could that wretched woman be so kind? ¡°Since you said so, Teacher, I¡¯m relieved. But no matter how well he does, don¡¯t let him get in too easily, okay~!¡± Ella couldn''t help but falter, her attention shifting to Lilith¡¯s voice on the other end of the call. ¡°You want me to block Shia¡¯s admission?¡± Ella frowned, almost doubting her ears. ¡°Heh~.¡± Lilith chuckled softly. At that moment, she was bending over, her golden hair falling past her ears, slender fingers caressing the edge of her stockings. As her fingers slid across, the stockings peeled off, revealing her smooth, fair legs. Next to her, the phone was on speaker, the call with Ella still active. ¡°Teacher, I¡¯m doing this for his own good.¡± ¡°My fianc¨¦ has always had things go too smoothly. He needs some setbacks to truly grow.¡± Lilith''s lips curved into a smirk. The stockings had slid to her ankles, revealing her slightly pinkish feet. She casually placed the stockings aside and stood up. Opening her wardrobe, a dazzling array of stockings hung in neat rows. Lilith reached out, her hand brushing across the different materials. Finally, she stopped at a pair of sheer black pantyhose. The material was silky and cool to the touch¡ªperfect. If Shia¡¯s admission didn¡¯t go smoothly, when he felt lost and hopeless, she could step in and plead on his behalf... Lilith¡¯s smile deepened as she picked up the black pantyhose. These stockings were even lighter than the previous thigh-highs. Through the thin material, her fair skin was faintly visible. The faint transparency made her legs appear all the more alluring. As the stockings stretched over her legs, they perfectly outlined her graceful curves while enhancing their shape. Lilith¡¯s movements were unhurried, her mind still strategizing. As his fianc¨¦e, it was only natural for her to alleviate his burdens. Coincidentally, her mentor was in charge of admissions. She would wait until he came to her for help. Then, she would console him. For his sake, she would humble herself and ask her mentor to be lenient, using her connections to get him into the academy. At that point, would he not be even more grateful? Gratitude would make him even more willing to risk his life for her. Wasn¡¯t that easily achieved? With her plan falling into place, Lilith felt her mood improve. However, as she was halfway through putting on the stockings, her movements suddenly froze. Chapter 7: Lilith Wants to Give Her Mentor a Lifetime of Happiness Chapter 7: Lilith Wants to Give Her Mentor a Lifetime of Happiness She tilted her head and picked up the phone, placing it against her ear. ¡°Teacher, is everything okay?¡± Lilith asked with concern. Through the receiver, she heard heavy breathing, slightly labored. She felt puzzled and tilted her head slightly. Is Teacher tired right now? ¡°Hm? What is it?¡± Perhaps due to the distortion from the electronic signal, the voice sounded fleeting and soft, almost out of reach. It was pleasant to the ear. Lilith squinted slightly, savoring those few simple syllables. It was almost unbelievable that her elegant and gentle mentor could make such a sound. The contrast was striking, but it only made her want to listen more carefully and clearly. She wanted her to speak a few more sentences, to make this call last longer. ¡°Teacher, about the matter of training my fianc¨¦, what do you think?¡± Her clear, melodious voice carried a hint of youthful excitement. After all, Lilith had a slight affection for her widowed mentor. The graceful and dignified widow exuded both purity and intellect while also invoking a sense of pity. Who could resist such a perfect combination? Lilith certainly couldn¡¯t. She just wanted to take action to soothe her mentor¡¯s past wounds and give her happiness in the latter half of her life! In her mind, she couldn¡¯t help but picture a future where she and her mentor lived blissfully together. Feeling content in her heart, and hearing her mentor¡¯s lovely voice, Lilith closed her eyes in satisfaction, envisioning a beautiful future. Her stunning face showed a bizarre expression. It was all for her teacher, after all! Lilith shamelessly gave herself a noble-sounding excuse.Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. --- On the other end. Ella bit her lip, silently enduring, maintaining her usual dignified and graceful demeanor. Due to her exhaustion, fine beads of sweat gathered on her nose, and her cheeks flushed. Her fair skin, under the heat, turned a soft rosy hue, looking exceptionally beautiful. ¡°Yes, I understand.¡± Her formerly elegant and serene voice now carried a slight, tender softness, sounding very pleasant. --- At the same time. Through the phone, Shia could faintly hear the clear voice of the girl. The corners of his mouth couldn¡¯t help but lift. Watching the tense and restrained expression of the mature woman, he couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. This was what one would call¡ªan endless cycle of revenge. If you don¡¯t avenge yourself, then I will. And I must do so fiercely! Hadn¡¯t Lilith already humiliated him countless times in the narrative? Well then, let¡¯s repay it once as a start. It was incredibly satisfying. Lilith, unaware of her plight, even felt proud to have an audience. The first strike was a perfect critical hit! On the other end of the phone, Lilith, reluctant to hang up, continued to press. ¡°Teacher, does this mean you¡¯ve agreed?¡± She still wanted to hear more of her mentor¡¯s lovely voice! Ella furrowed her brows and closed her eyes slightly. It was becoming a little too much to bear. Meanwhile, Shia mischievously leaned closer to her ear and whispered. ¡°Aunt Ella, are you going to agree to my enrollment or not? We¡¯re all still waiting for your answer~!¡± The boy¡¯s low, playful voice slipped quietly into the ear of this proud, widowed teacher, like a gentle drizzle. Caught between dilemmas, Ella¡¯s jade-like fingers tightened around the phone. She gritted her teeth, her nervousness turning into a slight resentment toward Shia¡¯s audacious behavior. But she could only endure it. It seemed only Ella was left to suffer in this world. ¡°Yes, fine.¡± As if relieved of a burden, Ella finally agreed. A bead of sweat slid down her slender neck. Lilith, hearing the response she wanted, became increasingly joyful and immediately expressed her gratitude. Shia, having received the green light for his enrollment, was just as thrilled, beaming like a child. Ella propped herself up on the sofa with one hand, leaning back as she gazed at the ornate chandelier on the ceiling. Yet her attention remained on the ¡°child¡± who had just acted spoiled. She wanted to hang up the call, but Lilith kept talking, refusing to let her go. --- Shia, meanwhile, basked in the warmth of his victory. It seemed the advantages of being with someone older were clear¡ªthe tolerance was unmatched! Ella¡¯s eyes glimmered with melancholy. Her close-fitting dress now felt even tighter, making her uncomfortable. Her annoyance with the instigator led her to place a hand on Shia¡¯s head as if she intended to teach him a lesson. Did he really like playing the role of a child that much? A faint blush spread across the gentle widow¡¯s face. A cool breeze swept through, and the sudden chill brought clarity to Ella¡¯s mind. An epiphany struck her, and she immediately hung up the phone, cutting off Lilith mid-sentence. The hand she had placed on Shia¡¯s head pushed him away. Their eyes met¡ªShia¡¯s filled with amusement and elegance, while Ella¡¯s, though misty, were sharp with a clear warning. She was his fianc¨¦e¡¯s elder, and being teased by a younger man like this was far too shameful. Ella felt completely drained, unable to summon any strength. Shia seemed slightly regretful but knew when to stop. ¡°Well then, Aunt Ella, I¡¯ll leave the matter of my enrollment to you~. Thanks a lot.¡± The boy¡¯s smile was bright and sunny, betraying no hint of his earlier mischievousness. ¡°I understand.¡± Though Ella¡¯s body remained tense, she allowed herself a small sigh of relief. At least things were back on track. --- However, the next moment, a shadow fell over her, and Ella¡¯s eyes widened. Hadn¡¯t she warned him already? Wasn¡¯t it supposed to be over? What was with this kiss!? Had he even taken her warnings seriously? Ella wanted to resist, but her body was too weak to muster the strength. The helplessness she felt caused her gentle face to flush red like a tomato. Her delicate hand rested on Shia¡¯s chest in a futile attempt to push him away, resembling a mix of resistance and reluctant acceptance. Her cheeks, which had just begun to cool, heated up once more. No, it¡¯s not because she didn¡¯t want to resist. Ella thought in a daze. After expressing his gratitude through his actions, Shia finally left. ¡°Aunt Ella, I look forward to seeing you again at the academy.¡± Shia smiled, leaving this remark before stepping away completely. Ella¡¯s mind was still spinning, and she felt a little lost. Her eyes instinctively followed Shia¡¯s figure. She watched as he rose from the sofa, straightened his slightly wrinkled clothes, and turned to leave. Before he left, Shia paused briefly by the dining room. Between the dining room and the living room, on a small table in the entryway, sat the memorial tablet of Ella¡¯s late husband. A bold idea suddenly flashed in Shia¡¯s mind, flickering repeatedly. He hesitated for a moment before moving on. The influence of the ring wasn¡¯t strong enough yet. If he went too far, the consequences wouldn¡¯t be worth it. Most importantly¡ He wasn¡¯t a pervert! Shia firmly believed he had never considered something like dishonoring a widow at her late husband¡¯s shrine. Apologizing or confessing in front of the deceased? He didn¡¯t even understand such things. Chapter 8: Everything I Do Is for You, My Dear Chapter 8: Everything I Do Is for You, My Dear Before leaving, Shia stood at the doorway, one hand on the doorknob. "Ella," he called. Ella instinctively turned her head to look. Shia''s face carried a smile, his expression tinged with curiosity. "Was that your first kiss just now?" In that instant, Shia saw Ella''s expression change. The flush on her face faded rapidly, leaving her pale as a sheet. Shia''s smile grew even brighter, but he didn¡¯t press for an answer. Instead, he closed the door behind him and disappeared into the villa. He didn¡¯t even force a response. Truly, what a kind-hearted person I am. But those words were like a dagger to the heart. The house fell silent, not a sound to be heard. Ella slumped onto the sofa. Her usually poised and elegant posture softened. Her stunningly beautiful face was now filled with dazed sorrow. The thin dress she wore clung closely to her body. At this moment, the front of her outfit was slightly disheveled, and her expression, a mix of panic and helplessness, evoked both pity and allure. She looked just like a wife being coerced by a thug. Ella bit her lower lip, tears welling up in her eyes. Her body felt weak and powerless, her heart filled with uncertainty. She didn¡¯t want things to be like this, but what else could she do? Her greatest secret had been uncovered by Shia. To keep it from being exposed, she had no choice but to endure and retreat. Dragging her exhausted legs, Ella walked to the shrine in the corner of the room. She looked at the photo on the memorial tablet of her late husband, reaching out to touch his face. Her fingers met only the cold surface of the frame. Ella¡¯s expression grew even sadder, and the sense of humiliation she felt overflowed, trickling down her cheeks as tears. "Everything I do is for you, my dear."This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there. Ella¡¯s lips moved as if to speak, but no sound came out. All she could do was silently repeat the words in her heart. Whether it was her actions as a spy or the humiliation she now endured, it was all for the greater goal. For the chance to resurrect her late husband! Right now, she couldn¡¯t afford to reveal anything. So, for the time being, she had no choice but to let this young thief have the upper hand. Her fingers pressed harder against the frame, her fingertips turning pale. Her face, white and sorrowful, shimmered with tears. Over and over again, she tried to comfort herself, as well as her husband. Just endure it¡ªit will pass. Persistence is victory. The plan was already halfway complete. There could be no turning back now. --- The next day. Shia glanced at the notification on his phone and chuckled. [Shia, congratulations on being successfully admitted to our academy. Please report to the freshman department within three days. ¡ª Admissions Office, Seven Shields Academy.] Elsewhere. Lilith was meticulously grooming herself. After calling her mentor yesterday, she had been eagerly anticipating the moment. Anticipating the sight of Shia looking like a pitiful stray dog. When Shia came to her for help later, she planned to present herself in peak form, staging a grand "queen¡¯s return." While carefully tending to her golden hair to make it shine, her phone suddenly rang. [Incoming call: Shia.] "Hello?" Lilith put the call on speakerphone, still curling her hair in front of the mirror. "Lilith, I''ve been successfully admitted." On the other end of the line came the bright, sunny voice of a young man. Then came a loud crash and clatter. Shia waited patiently for the noise on the other end to subside. Finally, Lilith¡¯s awkward, forced laugh came through. "Really? That¡¯s wonderful!" "You¡¯re happy for me, aren¡¯t you?" "Of course I am. How about this? Let¡¯s meet at the lake in Seven Shields Park in two hours, okay?" "Sure thing." Lilith ended the call, her stiff smile immediately vanishing as her face darkened visibly. Impossible! Hadn¡¯t her mentor promised yesterday not to let him enroll so easily? The disruption in her plans left Lilith feeling humiliated. Her first instinct was to call her mentor for clarification. But no one answered her calls. Unsure of what had happened, Lilith, though anxious and embarrassed, had no choice but to suppress her feelings and head to the agreed meeting place. She tried calling Ella several times, but none of her calls were answered. Even her text messages went unanswered. By the time Lilith arrived at the park at the designated time, the long-legged blonde beauty stood under the shade of a tree, a stunning sight that caught the attention of passersby. But there was no one to appreciate this view. Lilith scanned the surroundings, but there was no sign of Shia. It was unlike him. He had never made her wait before¡ªhe would always arrive early and wait for her instead. When the clock hands passed the agreed time by two and a half rotations, Lilith finally accepted the reality that she had been stood up. She had never imagined that one day she, of all people, would be stood up. Especially by the same lapdog who always fawned over her. But after waiting two and a half hours, no matter how unwilling she was to believe it, she had to face the truth. She had been stood up!? Incredulous. Lilith was furious and immediately called Shia. No answer. She kept calling! After a relentless barrage of calls, Shia finally picked up with an air of indifference. She wanted answers. How dare he stand her up? On her sixteenth call, her phone pinged with a message from Shia. [My dear Lilith, I¡¯m truly busy today. For you, I need to take care of many enrollment-related matters. I¡¯m so eager to see you again that I don¡¯t even have time to answer your calls. Please understand. ¡ªShia.] Lilith read the explanation and felt appeased. He was doing it all for me. To be by her side, he had worked hard to enroll in Seven Shields Academy. To see her sooner, he was so busy he couldn¡¯t even take her calls. Indeed, he was still the loyal lapdog who revolved around her. Lilith felt gratified. Though she couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something seemed off. Completely oblivious to being manipulated, Lilith, moved by her own thoughts, resolved to maintain her image in her lapdog¡¯s eyes. He¡¯s done so much for me. What¡¯s wrong with me waiting for him? Of course, I¡¯ll show how generous I am! Back on his balcony, lounging on a yoga mat under the sun, Shia smirked as he read her reply. Setting his phone aside, he took a sip of juice. A bold idea crossed his mind. If I can train a phoenix protagonist into a loyal dog, wouldn¡¯t that be amazing? But unexpected changes often arise suddenly. Shia heard a knock at his door. Opening it, he saw a familiar figure. Tia stood there, her face cold. Her long silver hair added a frosty layer to her already icy demeanor. She stepped into the room, her gaze fixed on Shia, coldness radiating from her eyes without restraint. This wasn¡¯t a friendly visit. Tia had come to settle the score. Last time, being overpowered by Shia had been an unbearable humiliation for her. Tia turned, her face full of disdain, her scorn unhidden. "Today, I¡¯ll teach you a lesson, you worthless scum!" Her aloof voice echoed, and the oppressive atmosphere instantly filled the room. Click. The door locked. Chapter 9: The Maid’s Bleak Future Chapter 9: The Maid¡¯s Bleak Future The maid, with her cold, aloof demeanor, radiated an oppressive presence. Her aura wasn¡¯t just due to her flawless, statuesque figure¡ªit was also her strength. Tier 3! Both her ability and potential were remarkable. In this world, cultivation was divided into nine tiers: Tier 1 signified entry-level, Tier 2 indicated proficiency, and Tier 3 was already considered exceptional talent. Tiers 4, 5, and 6 represented the power levels of the previous generation¡¯s elites. Tia looked at Shia with growing disdain. This useless fool, devoid of any cultivation talent, dared to treat her so brazenly. Now, she would teach him a lesson about respecting the strong! Tia stretched her limbs, her slender legs and graceful arms revealing their healthy, well-defined curves. As Lilith¡¯s personal maid and an unexpected combat powerhouse in the game, Tia¡¯s strength was unrivaled in the early stages, capable of dominating any encounter. And Shia? He hadn¡¯t even reached Tier 1. He lacked any cultivation talent whatsoever. Yet, despite this, Shia remained calm. He simply raised an eyebrow. ¡°Oh?¡± With arms crossed, he leaned casually against the wall, one leg crossed over the other¡ªa relaxed observer. He hadn¡¯t feared Tia even before acquiring his "golden finger," let alone now. Tia¡¯s threats and intimidation didn¡¯t faze him at all. It seemed she¡¯d already forgotten the lesson he had taught her earlier. Shia¡¯s indifferent attitude only added fuel to Tia¡¯s simmering rage. How dare this trash look so unconcerned? She was determined to teach him a lesson he wouldn¡¯t forget! This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it Just as Tia was about to make her move, Shia spoke. ¡°Arrogant little maid, do you want your perverted hobby revealed to your mistress?¡± His lazy yet clear voice rang out, and a faint glimmer flashed across the inconspicuous silver ring on his finger. Tia froze. Her blood seemed to congeal as she stood there, unable to move. The disdainful, haughty expression on her face shattered completely. Compared to Ella¡¯s calm reaction, Tia¡¯s was far worse. She panicked instantly. She couldn¡¯t even hide it. Her mind raced with confusion and fear. How did he know? He shouldn¡¯t know. No, this must be a bluff! But Shia mercilessly exposed her. ¡°What do you think will happen if people find out that you¡¯re a pervert who collects your mistress¡¯s worn garments? How will your mistress face the world then?¡± ¡°Imagine what others would say about her for keeping a maid like you.¡± ¡°Wouldn¡¯t people speculate that she might share your... unusual preferences?¡± ¡°And as for you, who would ever hire a maid like that?¡± ¡°Your mistress¡¯s reputation would be in ruins, and as for your future... tsk, tsk.¡± Shia left the rest unsaid, but the unspoken implications hit even harder. Tia couldn¡¯t help but follow his hypothetical scenario to its grim conclusion. The thought of such a future filled her with despair and suffocating dread. She couldn¡¯t see any light¡ªher life was bleak and hopeless. Tia stood frozen, trembling uncontrollably from the fear that gripped her soul. Her voluptuous figure quivered, rippling with each shiver. Her lips parted, but no sound came out. Only the trembling of her lips betrayed her terror. No, no, this can¡¯t happen. She wanted to scream, but her voice failed her. Shia raised an eyebrow. ¡°What¡¯s the matter? Still thinking about beating me up?¡± He sighed inwardly. How pathetic. She¡¯s already shaking from fear. And I haven¡¯t even used my big moves yet. Tia no longer harbored any thoughts of teaching Shia a lesson. All she could think about was that her darkest secret had been exposed. Shia shifted into an even more comfortable position. ¡°You know what to do now, don¡¯t you?¡± Tia¡¯s gaze landed on Shia¡¯s face. Looking at his composed demeanor, she clenched her teeth in frustration. But to protect her secret and avoid the nightmare of that future, she had no choice but to beg. Her body lowered gradually, and the detestable figure before her grew more towering and imposing in her eyes. Though her heart was filled with contempt, she couldn¡¯t do otherwise. ¡°Please... I beg you not to tell anyone about this.¡± Her cold, aloof voice was soft and trembling. Shia observed the awkwardness on her face. She was saying humble words, but her expression was one of absolute defiance. He scratched his ear lazily. ¡°That¡¯s how you ask for a favor?¡± Sheesh. I really need to fix that lousy attitude of hers. Tia bit her lip, her eyes wavering with confusion and anger. Humiliation overflowed in her heart. What more does he want from me? ¡°Do you even know how to apologize properly?¡± Shia¡¯s smile widened, his demeanor uncharacteristically friendly. Step two of dismantling the phoenix protagonist: start with her fiercely loyal maid. Ah, I¡¯m just too kind. With arms crossed and a scrutinizing gaze, Shia held a long pointer stick in his hand. ¡°Nope, lower yourself more.¡± The pointer lightly tapped Tia¡¯s back. At this moment, she was kneeling on the floor, her forehead touching the ground, hands placed on either side of her head. A perfect dogeza¡ªor so she thought. Her long silver hair fell to the floor, reflecting faintly against the cold, polished surface. She caught a blurry glimpse of her own reflection. Her voluptuous legs knelt in a tight posture, her well-proportioned thighs pressing against each other, leaving deeper marks where her white stockings cut into her skin. Her heart was filled with humiliation and shame. How much lower can I bow? My chest is already squished flat¡ªI can¡¯t bend further! ¡°Spread your arms farther. Why are they so close? Do you even know what sincerity means?¡± Though the humiliation gnawed at her, Tia had no choice but to adjust her posture according to Shia¡¯s instructions. She had always been exceptional, standing out wherever she went. Why was she the only maid allowed to serve her mistress personally? Because she was excellent¡ªbetter than anyone else. By standing beside her mistress, she elevated her standing and ensured her care. Even when walking alone, she commanded respect. Even other noblewomen treated her with courtesy. But now? Here she was, kneeling on the cold, hard floor, being manipulated like a puppet. At this moment, she felt like a dog wagging its tail in submission. It was the ultimate humiliation. Not that she entirely rejected the idea of being a "dog," but she resented having to act this way for Shia. If it were her mistress training her, she wouldn¡¯t mind. For her mistress, she¡¯d do anything. But this wasn¡¯t her mistress. Her secret was now in Shia¡¯s hands, and she had no choice but to let him control her. I¡¯ll endure this! Tia closed her eyes, silently bearing the shame inflicted upon her. You think this is over? Not a chance! Chapter 10: Completely Bullied by Trash Chapter 10: Completely Bullied by Trash Tia barely managed to assume the proper position to admit her mistake. ¡°I told you last time to mind your tone when speaking to your future master. Seems like you didn¡¯t learn your lesson.¡± Tia looked up at Shia, her cold gaze laced with confusion and unease. A bad feeling was brewing as she stared at his calm, noble demeanor. Shia didn¡¯t keep her waiting. ¡°Since you¡¯ve finally shown the proper attitude for apologizing, it¡¯s time for your punishment.¡± He gestured for Tia to turn around and face away from him. The command immediately brought back memories of her last experience. Biting her lip, her frosty eyes showed a flicker of fear. Just the thought of what was coming sent a chill down her spine. She didn¡¯t want to go through this again. Her ass hadn¡¯t even fully recovered yet. The memory alone made her ass tingle with phantom pain. ¡°C-could we skip the punishment?¡± Tia asked cautiously, her cold demeanor faltering into timid submission. She was afraid, plain and simple. What she didn¡¯t realize was that her mix of icy beauty and quiet fear made her even more tempting to push further. Shia shrugged indifferently. ¡°Don¡¯t want the punishment? Suit yourself.¡± He smirked. After all, he was a democratic guy. If she didn¡¯t want to be punished, he wouldn¡¯t force her. But Tia¡¯s initial relief was quickly replaced by anxiety. Why was he letting her off so easily? Someone like him, a cunning bastard who had dirt on her, should¡¯ve been taking full advantage. Was he planning to spill her secret if she refused the punishment? Caught up in her internal struggle, Tia didn¡¯t notice the faint glow from the charm ring on Shia¡¯s finger.You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version. Her eyes were glued to his face as her thoughts wavered. He¡¯s right. When you fuck up, you have to take responsibility. Trying to dodge it is pointless. And with him holding her biggest secret, she had no choice but to let him have his way. Under the influence of the ring, her feelings twisted into reverence and submission. Obediently, she turned around, kneeling with her back to him, presenting herself in silent acceptance of her punishment. Shia¡¯s lips curled into a sly smirk. The pointer stick in his hand came down with a sharp crack, slapping against the table. Tia flinched, her body trembling instinctively. But the pain didn¡¯t follow¡ªat least not right away. Crack! Another sharp snap rang out, and this time, a fiery sting shot through her ass. The first strike drained all the color from Tia¡¯s face. She bit down hard on her lip, but a muffled moan still slipped out. Shia didn¡¯t hold back. The strikes came fast and relentless, leaving her ass burning like it was on fire. Tia¡¯s mind was a mess of shame and rage. She couldn¡¯t believe this piece of trash was humiliating her like this. But with her secret in his hands, what could she do? Her plush lips turned pale from how hard she was biting them, leaving deep teeth marks. Sweat beaded on her forehead, and her pale face looked fragile and pitiful. But all she could do was endure it, clenching her teeth as the trash in front of her had his way. Her mind screamed for revenge, to give this humiliation back a hundredfold, but her body betrayed her. ¡°Mmm~!¡± The sound slipped out against her will, a hoarse, breathy moan that sent her embarrassment skyrocketing. The sharp stings on her ass were the only thing she could focus on. Hearing herself made her cheeks flush crimson. She hated the sound, hated that it had come from her. Shia chuckled, his frustration from the game¡¯s annoying storyline melting away as he watched her. For all her sharp words, this silver-haired maid had an ass that was soft and firm in equal measure¡ªperfect for this kind of punishment. *Crack!* Another strike, and the sight before him only got better. Her ass jiggled with the impact, a tantalizing bounce that made the whole ordeal worth it. Punishing her like this? Absolutely therapeutic. Tia¡¯s pale face was now flushed a bright red. She looked like she was in the middle of something much more intimate. Shia couldn¡¯t resist teasing her. ¡°You should really look at yourself in a mirror.¡± ¡°Tell me, would your mistress feel proud or disappointed seeing her maid like this?¡± Tia¡¯s tightly bottled shame finally burst, overwhelming her completely. Being bullied by trash? That, she could force herself to endure. But hearing those words and imagining her mistress¡¯s disappointed, icy gaze? It was too much. She trembled uncontrollably, tears welling up in her eyes. ¡°I¡¯m not¡ I didn¡¯t¡¡± She tried desperately to deny it, clinging to the hope that she wasn¡¯t really the pervert Shia was making her out to be. She looked like a beaten dog begging for mercy. Shia knew full well that Lilith, the so-called phoenix protagonist, wouldn¡¯t care if her maid was a pervert. She might even like it. But Tia didn¡¯t know that. Would she dare to gamble on that? Of course not. This game was already over. Tia had lost completely. --- Later, Lilith found Tia, wanting to ask about Shia¡¯s recent activities. Her lapdog¡¯s sudden admission to Seven Shields Academy had thrown a wrench in her plans, leaving her uneasy. But the moment she asked, she noticed something odd. Her sharp eyes roamed over Tia, sensing subtle changes in her demeanor. Tia, under her mistress¡¯s probing gaze, couldn¡¯t help but recall what had happened earlier that day. Was Shia acting differently? Oh, absolutely. He was far more domineering, exuding a commanding masculinity that hadn¡¯t been there before. The memory of what he¡¯d done to her flashed in her mind, making her cheeks burn. But no matter what, Tia couldn¡¯t admit what had happened to her mistress. When she snapped out of her thoughts, she found Lilith staring at her with a serious expression. ¡°Why are you trembling?¡± Lilith¡¯s clear, noble gaze held an air of authority that made Tia¡¯s heart pound. The words Shia had said echoed in her mind. What if your mistress knew¡ Tia bit her lip, hesitating. But in the end, she chose to lie. ¡°He hasn¡¯t been acting strange. Everything¡¯s normal.¡± She couldn¡¯t bring herself to admit she¡¯d been humiliated by trash. ¡°Are you sure?¡± ¡°Positive. He¡¯s just busy settling in and handling admission paperwork.¡± Despite her guilt, Tia lied to the woman she admired most. She didn¡¯t realize she¡¯d just stepped onto the path of a classic tragic subplot. And the true protagonist of that story was her beloved mistress. Chapter 11: Lilith Felt Unprecedented Panic Chapter 11: Lilith Felt Unprecedented Panic Lilith continued to stare at Tia¡¯s face, suspicion flickering in her eyes. Tia worked hard to keep herself composed, trying to appear as normal as possible. Yet, her heart pounded in her chest like a drum. Lilith nodded thoughtfully, seeming to accept Tia¡¯s explanation. Even with her trusted maid¡¯s assurance, an unease lingered in her chest. She decided to visit Shia herself. After all, she cared about him. A tool as useful as Shia wasn¡¯t something she could afford to lose so easily. But when Lilith arrived, she found an empty house. Looking around at the vacant space, she realized something unsettling¡ªshe barely knew anything about her tool. If he wasn¡¯t at home, where else could she find him? Lilith scanned the room¡¯s furnishings to confirm that it was indeed empty. She turned to leave, her hand on the doorknob, when something made her pause. Lilith¡¯s nose twitched slightly as she caught a faint, lingering fragrance in the air. It was familiar¡ªtoo familiar. A composed and elegant face appeared in her mind. With the sharp instincts of a bloodhound, Lilith¡¯s eyes widened. Why does it smell like *her* here!? A sense of foreboding and anxiety welled up in her chest. She recalled the call she had made to her mentor. Her mentor had promised not to let Shia enroll so easily, yet there had been no resistance at all. Now, paired with this scent, an unsettling possibility formed in Lilith¡¯s mind. Had her mentor been poached? The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. No. Lilith instinctively dismissed the idea. She ran through Shia¡¯s attributes in her mind: a talentless nobody, decent looks, and a somewhat good family background. Hardly worth stealing. Except¡ if it was for something more scandalous. A composed widow and a vibrant, virile young man. Lilith¡¯s mind filled with colorful, tantalizing images that were as vivid as they were explicit. Her imagination, running rampant, quickly filled in every detail of her mentor¡¯s supposed escapades with her so-called fianc¨¦. Her gaze shifted to the neatly made bed. Although it was perfectly tidy, Lilith could almost see the aftermath of their struggle. She shivered, jolting herself back to reality. Dammit. She had overexcited herself. The illusions faded, leaving her in the same quiet, tidy room, filled with that faint, lingering fragrance. --- Meanwhile, what was Shia up to? He stood with a calm, faint smile on his face, studying the elegant figure before him. The woman in front of him had soft, wavy purple hair tied into a half-up bun, with a few gentle strands framing her face. Her refined smile and composed demeanor exuded sophistication. She wore a pale yellow dress that hugged her full curves, turning even a modest outfit into something that looked like a skintight piece. Her ample chest seemed ready to burst the decorative buttons, while her slender waist appeared even more delicate in comparison. The skirt, cut just above mid-thigh, revealed long legs encased in sheer gray stockings, hinting at an enticing peachy fragrance. The classic ¡°neighbor¡¯s wife¡± look: dignified and elegant, yet undeniably alluring. Ella had clearly recovered her composure after a day¡¯s break. She acted as if Shia were just an ordinary new student, keeping her demeanor calm and professional. Or so it seemed. Ella was currently giving Shia a tour of Seven Shields Academy. The academy featured blue spires and pristine white buildings, all constructed in the style of grand castles. With separate zones for sports, academics, living quarters, and leisure, the academy offered breathtaking sights and comprehensive facilities. Its scale rivaled that of a small country¡ªa world of its own. Shia looked up at the blue sky, the clouds tinged with golden hues. This coloration came from the distortion caused by the academy¡¯s protective barrier. Suddenly, the cheerful chatter of girls reached his ears. Shia lowered his gaze just in time to see a group of students exiting their classroom. The lively girls were full of energy, their tailored uniforms making them stand out even more. The uniforms were white with blue accents, featuring deep-blue pleated skirts that drew attention to their long, slender legs. Shia¡¯s gaze lingered on those legs. Short skirts and stockings¡ªthe perfect combo. Looking around, he realized the academy was overwhelmingly filled with girls, most of them beautiful. Why was the gender ratio at Seven Shields so skewed? Don¡¯t ask. It¡¯s just how these fantasy worlds work. As much as the story annoyed him, Shia had to admit the setting was a visual treat. ¡°This area is for second-year classes. You freshmen will be studying over here,¡± Ella¡¯s gentle, magnetic voice broke his thoughts. She turned her head slightly, gesturing toward another part of the campus. Her tone was professional and meticulous as she guided him through the tour. Shia followed her gaze and matched her pace. ¡°Good afternoon, Ms. Ella.¡± ¡°You look stunning today, Ms. Ella.¡± Everywhere they went, students greeted Ella with admiration. Two girls with faces full of reverence stood in front of them, bowing respectfully. Shia wasn¡¯t surprised. These weren¡¯t the first students to greet Ella warmly. Ella responded with a slight nod, her composed smile exuding elegance and restraint, commanding even greater respect. It was clear from their reactions just how much the students admired her. Ella¡¯s popularity wasn¡¯t just due to her exceptional teaching skills, though. Her own strength and innovative teaching methods had earned unanimous praise from the students. Sure, she was greedy and undeniably a schemer. But to become a first-tier lecturer at Seven Shields Academy, Ella had to have real talent. Besides her capabilities, Ella¡¯s classical beauty also contributed to her fame. As a paragon of grace and intellect, Ella was one of the academy¡¯s most admired figures. Shia¡¯s gaze gradually shifted from the surroundings to Ella herself. For such an outstanding beauty of a mentor¡ how satisfying would it be to make her cry more? Once the idea took hold, he didn¡¯t hesitate. Action followed thought as Shia reached out and clasped her soft, delicate hand. Ella instinctively turned her head, looking at him in surprise. ¡°Aunt Ella, getting familiar with the academy isn¡¯t the most important thing. Could you give me a unique lesson instead?¡± The handsome young man held the elegant mentor¡¯s wrist gently. The sunlight framed his dark hair in a warm glow. His sunny smile and clean, radiant aura were brighter than the sunlight itself. Ella stared at the eager boy, her throat tightening as she swallowed nervously. Her entire body tensed instinctively. For some reason, she couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that this was dangerous. Chapter 12: The Widow’s Secret Lesson and Lilith’s Pitiful Perspective Chapter 12: The Widow¡¯s Secret Lesson and Lilith¡¯s Pitiful Perspective ¡°The morning session is for helping students¡ get familiar with academy life¡ and adjust. The most important part¡ is the afternoon freshman ceremony¡ which all new students¡ must attend.¡± Ella¡¯s soft, magnetic voice trembled slightly, her words halting and shaky. ¡°And what else?¡± Shia¡¯s lazy voice carried a teasing tone. ¡°There¡¯s also¡ the freshman qualification tournament tomorrow. That¡¯s the most¡ important event. It will determine¡ the class placements going forward.¡± Despite the quivering in her voice, Ella still managed to finish explaining. Shia, however, looked unimpressed. ¡°Oh.¡± He already knew all of this like the back of his hand. What he didn¡¯t find satisfactory, though, was Ella¡¯s lesson delivery. ¡°Aunt Ella, are you sure this is how you¡¯re supposed to teach?¡± Shia¡¯s voice carried a mix of doubt and feigned concern. As a lecturer, shouldn¡¯t she be able to speak clearly? ¡°Shia!¡± Ella¡¯s voice rose slightly, her tone laced with frustration as she bit out the words. It sounded almost like a scolding, though it carried an undertone of embarrassment. Was her teaching really the problem? No! It was all his fault! Yet, Ella couldn¡¯t voice her frustrations. Sitting on a park bench, her ears burned bright red, the blush slowly spreading to her face. Though her voice had risen, she kept it low, clearly worried about being overheard. Her eyes darted nervously around, like a thief afraid of being caught. Ella shifted her hips slightly, the movement subtle but telling. Her whole demeanor was awkward and fidgety.Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site. The park bench shielded most of her body from view, and a carefully manicured bush obscured the area beneath it. But from a different angle¡ªsay, the far bank of the river¡ªyou¡¯d see the purple-haired beauty¡¯s long, elegant legs draped over the lap of the boy sitting beside her. Shia¡¯s hand rested lightly on her black-stockinged legs, the silky texture and soft elasticity beneath his fingers undeniably satisfying. ¡°Aunt Ella, how¡¯s my massage technique?¡± Shia¡¯s voice was still casual, a hint of amusement lacing his words. What kind of teacher lets their student massage them during a lesson!? Ella was on the verge of breaking down. Shia thought he was being generous. He might not have the money for private lessons, but he could always repay his mentor¡¯s efforts with his skilled hands. So here they were¡ªone giving a private lesson, the other showing his gratitude¡ªall culminating in this scene. Ella regretted everything. She couldn¡¯t understand how she had been dumb enough to fall for Shia¡¯s nonsense. She should have outright refused him and given him a slap for good measure. But the pride she held in her discipline and self-control had crumbled the moment she faced this boy. Biting her lip, Ella tried her best to maintain her professional poise. That said, his massage *did* feel amazing. The soreness from walking in high heels for half an hour melted away. Her tense leg muscles relaxed, and her entire body began to feel at ease. Ella closed her eyes slightly, letting herself sink into the comfort. Without realizing it, she had become fully immersed. ¡°What the hell are you two doing!?¡± A crisp, melodious voice shattered the tranquility, snapping Ella out of her momentary relaxation. Her heart skipped a beat as she instinctively turned toward the voice. Across a small patch of grass and shrubbery, Lilith stood behind them. Clad in a striking red skirt, her outfit was bold and eye-catching. Her long, shapely legs, encased in black stockings, stood out even through the leafy cover. Her golden hair gleamed in the sunlight, and her perfect, exquisite face was marked with a mix of shock and disbelief. She looked betrayed, her gaze accusing as it flicked between the two. After failing to find Shia at his house, Lilith had come to the academy. Following directions from the students, she had tracked down her mentor¡ªonly to discover her mentor and her fianc¨¦ together! From afar, she had seen two familiar figures sitting closely on the bench, speaking in hushed tones. Her heart sank. As she got closer, her suspicions were confirmed. The sight of her mentor and her fianc¨¦ together filled her with simmering displeasure. But her anger wasn¡¯t directed at Shia. It was at her mentor, Ella. If you¡¯re going to go for a younger guy, at least pick someone else! Shia is *mine*! He might be trash, but he¡¯s my trash. You don¡¯t just take what belongs to me! Ella, on the other hand, felt a moment of panic at Lilith¡¯s sudden appearance. But she quickly regained her composure, once again the dignified and elegant mentor. ¡°Shia just enrolled and isn¡¯t familiar with the academy yet. I¡¯m giving him a tour to help him adjust,¡± Ella explained smoothly. Meanwhile, Shia was sizing up Lilith. This was his first real encounter with his fianc¨¦e. The recordings he had seen before? That was just him watching a video. Now, up close, he had to admit¡ªLilith was flawless. Her beauty was immaculate, down to the precision of her makeup. Her soft, slightly curled blonde hair cascaded down her shoulders, complementing her delicate, melancholy expression. It was enough to make any boy fall for her. Her slender neck, the deep neckline of her red dress showing off her impressive cleavage far beyond what one would expect for her age, and her curvaceous black-stockinged legs all combined into a package that screamed perfection. She was the kind of girl you could admire for three years without getting bored. But as perfect as she looked, something about her rubbed Shia the wrong way. She radiated an aura of pettiness that made it hard to truly like her. While Shia assessed Lilith, she dismissed him entirely. To Lilith, Shia was her property. The real issue was her mentor, Ella. Lilith¡¯s gaze bore into Ella, her eyes full of doubt and reproach. ¡°Teacher, since when did you and Shia get so close?¡± Her teacher¡¯s scent lingered in Shia¡¯s room, and now she saw them sitting so intimately, whispering to each other. A bad feeling gnawed at Lilith, making her stare even more intently at Ella. She felt irritated. You¡¯re my teacher. You know he¡¯s my fianc¨¦. How could you sneak behind my back like this? Under Lilith¡¯s gaze, Ella couldn¡¯t help but feel a pang of guilt. It felt like she¡¯d been caught red-handed. And, in a way, she had been. After all, Shia was technically Lilith¡¯s fianc¨¦. Ella¡¯s thoughts spiraled. The situation felt unfamiliar and strangely unsettling. For the first time, she felt nervous and unsure of herself, her mind racing but frozen at the same time. What the hell should I say to prove my innocence? Chapter 13: Even Bad Women Can Get PUAd Chapter 13: Even Bad Women Can Get PUA''d Unlike her reaction when dealing with Shia, Ella was far more composed in front of Lilith. Even with a hint of guilt tugging at her heart, as a teacher, she had no trouble keeping up appearances. Her expression betrayed nothing as she frowned lightly. ¡°I¡¯m simply giving a new student a tour of the academy. Lilith, have you misunderstood something?¡± Her refined, classical demeanor radiated poise and confidence, leaving no room for suspicion. If anything, she seemed slightly displeased by her student¡¯s doubts. Her gaze seemed to silently accuse: ''I¡¯m just helping your fianc¨¦ get to know the academy, and this is how you repay my kindness?'' The subtle pressure from her mentor¡¯s aura made Lilith, who had initially been confident in her accusations, falter. Facing such an authoritative teacher, what could she possibly say? Unable to continue pressing her teacher, Lilith turned her attention to Shia. For the first time since Shia arrived in this world, Lilith actually gave him a proper look. ¡°Darling, isn¡¯t it a bit much to trouble Teacher like this? Let me take you around the academy instead.¡± Though phrased as a question, her tone left no room for refusal. Lilith fully expected her offer to be accepted. She¡¯d escort Shia away and get to the bottom of this privately. --- Ten minutes later. The blonde-haired, red-dressed young lady sat opposite Shia, her stunning face wearing an air of composure tinged with a hint of disdain. Though her gaze rested on Shia, it carried an undertone of indifference, as if he wasn¡¯t worth her attention. Her long legs were crossed, one foot tapping lightly, the motion drawing attention to the sleek, stocking-clad limbs that nearly reached into Shia¡¯s personal space. With her arms crossed and an icy demeanor, Lilith exuded an air of untouchable elegance. She tilted her chin slightly upward. ¡°Come clean. The truth will go easier for you. What¡¯s going on?¡±The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation. Here we go, Shia thought to himself, amused. If he weren¡¯t such a courteous and restrained man, he might have laughed in her face. He took a moment to observe this so-called bad woman up close. Golden hair cascading in waves, a perfect face, and legs that could inspire devotion. Before he arrived in this world, such a woman would have been his wildest fantasy. Now, it was time to show her the pinnacle of PUA tactics. ¡°About what?¡± ¡°About why you were alone with Teacher in such an intimate position,¡± Lilith demanded, her tone heavy with entitlement. As her property, he should¡¯ve been keeping his distance from other women. Instead, he¡¯d been flirting with Ella? Acting innocent as if he¡¯d done nothing wrong? She deserved an explanation. But before she could press further, Shia struck first. ¡°You don¡¯t trust me?¡± His voice, soft and tinged with sadness, caught Lilith off guard. ¡°I can¡¯t believe it¡ You actually suspect me?¡± Disappointment and sorrow filled his gaze, his expression one of pure heartbreak. The sudden shift left Lilith momentarily stunned. Before she could recover, Shia launched into his next move. His hurt expression faded, replaced by a blank, emotionless mask. ¡°Are you tired of me? Is that why you¡¯re finding excuses to distance yourself?¡± His hollow voice carried the weight of a man betrayed, looking at her as if she were the villain. The unexpected shift rendered Lilith speechless. What the hell was happening? She¡¯d just asked a simple question, and now¡ Shia dragged a hand across his face, as if wiping away nonexistent tears. ¡°I get it now. You¡¯re just sick of me.¡± ¡°If you don¡¯t want me anymore, just say so. Why use these excuses to push me away?¡± ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll let you go. I¡¯ll find a corner to cry in alone, and I promise I won¡¯t get in your way.¡± Lilith opened her mouth to respond, but the words felt hollow as they left her lips. ¡°I¡¯m not¡ That¡¯s not¡ It¡¯s not what you think¡¡± But what was it, exactly? Even she couldn¡¯t explain. Glancing nervously at Shia¡¯s face, she finally muttered softly, ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I shouldn¡¯t have doubted you.¡± Her voice was barely audible, as if she were the one at fault. Too quiet for anyone but herself to hear. Shia¡¯s gaze turned colder, his disappointment deepening. ¡°This is how you treat our relationship?¡± He turned his face away, refusing to look at her. ¡°I¡¯m so disappointed in you.¡± Lilith panicked. How could he think she didn¡¯t care? Watching his ¡°heartbroken¡± demeanor, she hurriedly raised her voice. ¡°It was my mistake! I shouldn¡¯t have doubted you. I misunderstood your feelings. I¡¯m sorry!¡± She closed her eyes, her face burning with shame as she shouted her apology. It was humiliating, but she had no choice. She had to appease him, no matter the cost. Shia didn¡¯t turn to face her but fell silent. Lilith fidgeted anxiously, trying to sneak a glance at his expression, but he gave her nothing. Shia¡¯s eyes glinted briefly, though his voice remained calm and detached. ¡°That¡¯s enough. I need to prepare for the freshman ceremony. I¡¯m leaving.¡± With that, he stood and walked away, his strides purposeful and unhurried. Within moments, he was almost out of sight. Lilith hesitated, torn between chasing after him and risking making things worse. Before she could decide, Shia paused, glancing back slightly. ¡°I need some time to cool off. I don¡¯t want to take out my bad mood on you.¡± His words struck a chord in Lilith¡¯s heart. Even when he was so upset, so hurt, he was still thinking about her. How considerate¡ As Shia disappeared from view, Lilith¡¯s thoughts churned. Something about this felt¡ off. Those words he¡¯d said¡ªthey felt oddly familiar. Wait a second. Weren¡¯t those the kinds of lines ''girls'' usually used? Why was he, a guy, so skilled at them? The roles seemed completely reversed. And another thing hit her. The Shia she used to know never acted this way. In the past, he would¡¯ve immediately apologized and groveled. If she said go east, he wouldn¡¯t even question her. If she said he was wrong, even if he wasn¡¯t, he¡¯d agree. But this time, he had completely thrown out the script. He¡¯d turned the tables on her. Lilith was left with a whirlwind of emotions¡ªfrustration, confusion, and something else. Shia wasn¡¯t supposed to challenge her, yet here he was, making her apologize, placate him, and chase after him. The docile little lapdog she¡¯d once controlled was gone. And yet¡ Lilith licked her lips, a flicker of excitement crossing her face. For some reason, this new version of Shia intrigued her even more. Sure, an obedient little lapdog was convenient. But how boring was that? It was like owning a lifeless doll. A dog that could bite back, show emotions, and make things interesting? Now ''that'' was something worth keeping. A playful smirk graced the golden-haired lady¡¯s perfect features. Watching the direction Shia had gone, Lilith¡¯s interest only grew. Forget about boring obedience. She wanted the drama, the challenge, the excitement. Truly, she had a taste for chaos. Chapter 14: White Stockings, Boots, and the Princess Chapter 14: White Stockings, Boots, and the Princess The sky was bright and blue, dotted with fluffy clouds. A soft breeze carried away the lingering summer heat. The air buzzed with activity, filled with the chatter and laughter of countless girls. Shia walked with the flow of the crowd, heading toward the freshman ceremony. As he moved, his fingers absentmindedly played with the simple silver ring on his hand. Its dull sheen and unremarkable design made it appear like an ordinary trinket, even poorly maintained. Yet, with his subtle motions, the Charm Ring released invisible ripples of energy, projecting a virtual interface that only Shia could see. On the screen, a single name was recorded: Ella. Next to her name was a progress bar, mostly empty but partially filled¡ªa mere 5%. [Taming Progress] It was just a small start, but it marked progress nonetheless. This was the true power of the Charm Ring. Once the taming progress reached 80%, absolute loyalty was guaranteed. The target would be completely devoted to him. That was Shia¡¯s true goal. Sure, bullying "bad women" was entertaining, but his ultimate aim was to tame them¡ªmind, body, and soul. In a chaotic world like this, individual strength wasn¡¯t enough. Influence and alliances were just as critical. When the Twilight Empress plunged the land into war and the Demon Race brought devastation, having a loyal faction under his control would be the key to survival and power. And who better to recruit than these "bad women"? They were easy targets, and he didn¡¯t feel guilty about it. If the story didn¡¯t claim them, he might as well. You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story. They could serve their true purpose and reduce his burden of sin. But taming them required more than just the Charm Ring. The artifact was only an aid, not a cheat code. Before it was fully unsealed, its effects were limited and superficial. For example, it had no effect on a protagonist like Lilith. Her innate "plot armor" and protagonist buffs made her immune to its influence. Even against side characters like Tia and Ella, the ring¡¯s effects were slow and subtle, like boiling a frog in warm water. Any reckless moves could trigger a bad ending. How did Shia know all this? Hard-earned experience from countless failed playthroughs, of course. It painted a grim picture: if he couldn¡¯t even handle supporting characters, what chance did he have with the main heroines? Still, Shia was confident. He didn¡¯t need the Charm Ring to handle Lilith. She¡¯d bend to his will eventually. Absolutely confident. --- The freshmen wore identical uniforms¡ªsailor tops with short skirts and stockings. Yet each girl found her own way to stand out, subtly showcasing their unique charm. Shia stood amidst the crowd, his gaze wandering casually. He was looking for a certain succubus princess, all while admiring the scenery of youthful beauty around him. Who wouldn¡¯t enjoy the sight of so many cute girls? --- Suddenly, a clear, aristocratic voice echoed through the microphone, commanding the crowd¡¯s attention. ¡°Hello?¡± It was only a sound check, but it immediately drew every gaze toward the stage. On the platform stood a girl with shimmering silver hair that glowed under the sunlight. Her slender, shapely legs were wrapped in white stockings that hinted at a soft fullness, and knee-high white boots added an air of elegance and authority. Though her uniform was identical to everyone else¡¯s, her noble demeanor made her shine like a beacon. Violet, the princess of the Silver Moon Kingdom, stood tall, her expression calm and composed. The murmurs began almost instantly. ¡°Who is that? She¡¯s stunning.¡± ¡°You don¡¯t know her? She¡¯s the star of our freshman class!¡± ¡°Yeah, I heard she¡¯s the princess of the Silver Moon Kingdom.¡± ¡°Silver Moon Kingdom? Where¡¯s that?¡± ¡°I¡¯m not sure. It¡¯s a small nation, I think? But she¡¯s a ''princess''! Do you even know how valuable that title is? She smashed records during the entrance exam. Even before classes started, the professors were fighting to recruit her.¡± ¡°No way¡¡± Violet heard the whispers but didn¡¯t react, her confidence unwavering. She was proud of her talent and achievements. It took only an instant, a single sound, for her to become the center of attention. ¡°Good morning, teachers and fellow students. I¡¯m Violet, your freshman representative.¡± Her self-introduction was succinct, devoid of unnecessary details about her glowing achievements. She didn¡¯t need to boast¡ªher excellence spoke for itself. Some people were born to stand in the spotlight, admired and pursued by all. Violet may not have been born that way, but she was determined to make herself such a figure. As she stood on the stage, clad in her white stockings and boots, her poise and elegance turned her into the undisputed focal point of the crowd. ¡°It is an honor to serve as the freshman representative and speak on this important occasion.¡± Her voice was steady, her pace deliberate. Her composure only heightened the admiration of the crowd. Violet¡¯s gaze swept across the audience. She saw the awe and adoration in the students¡¯ eyes and the satisfaction in the faces of the faculty. Everyone¡¯s attention was on her, their emotions guided by her words. She was the standard to aspire to, the brightest among the students. But then her gaze faltered. Amidst the sea of admiring faces, one stood out¡ªa boy with dark hair and a calm, indifferent demeanor. His head was slightly bowed, his features barely visible from the distance. His upright posture and detached air set him apart from everyone else. While all eyes were on her, his weren¡¯t. It annoyed her. Violet frowned slightly, a flicker of displeasure crossing her composed face. He wasn¡¯t looking at her? For someone as exceptional as her, this was unacceptable. She was meant to be admired by everyone¡ª''everyone''. How dare he ignore her? Who was he? What was he looking at? What was he thinking? She couldn¡¯t shake the unsettling thought: ''Did I not do enough? Was I not perfect?'' It was baffling. What kind of boy could resist the allure of white stockings and boots? Her best friend had assured her that no one could. Unintentionally, Violet found herself fixating on this strange, indifferent boy. Chapter 15: Man, You’ve Successfully Caught My Attention! Chapter 15: Man, You¡¯ve Successfully Caught My Attention! Shia wasn¡¯t particularly impressed by Violet¡¯s speech on stage. As a seasoned player who had gone through the game multiple times, Shia knew all too well the significance of this heroine. The "White Stockings Princess," one of the game¡¯s few characters with flawless appeal. Her porcelain, silky skin was often highlighted in the game¡¯s CG illustrations, whether through melted ice cream scenarios or lavish bath product application scenes. She came with an alluring combination of silver hair, royal blood, and a strong yet tragic persona. On top of that, she was a princess from a kingdom on the brink of ruin, set for an arranged marriage, and even had an aunt who bore a striking resemblance to her and ruled in her stead. Both were fully romanceable characters. You could even unlock the "double combo" route. But! Despite her overwhelming charm, Shia didn¡¯t like Violet¡¯s personality. Why? She was incredibly contradictory! A deeply conflicted, tragic older-sister type who spent the entire storyline at odds with herself. And, to top it off, her personality guaranteed constant friction with the current Shia. Whether it was due to her preferences or her personal pursuits, conflict was inevitable. While it might make sense narratively, Shia couldn¡¯t care less. ''Why should I be the one to suffer!?'' For now, his priority was finding the succubus princess. The princess was also a freshman, though she had arrived in disguise. In the game, she was relatively easy to spot¡ªmost other characters were background filler. But in reality, those background silhouettes were now living, breathing people. Spotting someone disguised in a crowd was far more difficult than it had been in the game. Shia scoured every corner his eyes could reach but failed to catch sight of her. The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. Even after the ceremony ended, he came up empty-handed. It was disappointing, sure, but it wasn¡¯t the end of the world. It seemed he¡¯d have to wait for the qualification tournament, a key story event. Shia lowered his gaze, his thoughts turning toward the tournament and its related events. Immersed in his plans, Shia didn¡¯t notice that Violet had been watching him from the stage. The girls around him, however, were abuzz with chatter. "Who is she looking at?" "She¡¯s definitely been glancing this way!" The chatter didn¡¯t even reach Shia, who remained lost in thought. Violet, meanwhile, grew increasingly irked. From the moment she stepped on stage to the very end of the ceremony, this black-haired boy hadn¡¯t spared her a single glance. ''Man, you¡¯ve successfully caught my attention!'' --- As the freshman qualification tournament approached, Ella had already highlighted its importance. Naturally, Lilith was concerned about Shia¡¯s performance. That evening, she paid him an unexpected visit. The tournament would determine class placements and resource allocations within the academy. It was crucial to push Shia as hard as possible. ¡°Shia, do you love me?¡± ¡°If you do, then win the freshman qualification tournament for me.¡± ¡°My man must be a hero among men.¡± ¡°If you can¡¯t even claim first place in such a trivial competition, do you deserve my faith in you?¡± The attack had begun! Facing Lilith¡¯s second round of PUA tactics, Shia wasn¡¯t the least bit surprised. She was ramping up the pressure, jumping straight to max intensity. First place? Easier said than done. Shia lacked even a trace of cultivation talent. Even the academy¡¯s prodigies couldn¡¯t confidently guarantee their rankings here. Lilith knew full well that Shia had no talent for cultivation. But did that matter? Of course not. It didn¡¯t matter how he accomplished it¡ªshe demanded results. ¡°What if I can¡¯t get first place?¡± Shia asked, his tone neutral. Lilith feigned a look of sadness. ¡°My man would never fail at something so trivial.¡± ¡°It¡¯s just a matter of willpower.¡± ¡°If you truly love me, you¡¯ll make it happen.¡± ¡°If you can¡¯t¡¡± The implication was clear: ''If you fail, you don¡¯t love me.'' Lilith was masterfully connecting unrelated concepts, weaving them into a web of guilt and expectation. Shia wanted to laugh. ''What does love have to do with tournament rankings?'' Still, in this world, cultivation wasn¡¯t the only path to success. There were countless other avenues to explore. And again, what did love have to do with tournament results? This was nothing more than an attempt to instill self-doubt. If she could make him believe ¡°I can¡¯t even manage this¡ªI¡¯m worthless,¡± her job was done. But Shia wasn¡¯t the pushover he used to be. Pressure needed an outlet. Shia¡¯s head drooped, his entire demeanor collapsing as though defeated. ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± he muttered. ¡°I have no cultivation talent. How could I ever take first place in the tournament?¡± ¡°I love you, but I can¡¯t prove it.¡± ¡°I¡¯m just garbage.¡± He looked every bit the beaten dog Lilith wanted him to be. Lilith smiled in satisfaction. ''Now this is how my loyal lapdog should act.'' But before she could deliver the next blow, Shia flipped the script. ¡°A failure like me doesn¡¯t deserve to stay by your side.¡± Shia raised his head, his eyes filled with sorrow and reluctance. The sincerity in his gaze stunned Lilith. She started to nod, then hesitated as realization struck her. Wait¡ªwas he¡ giving up? While her ideal tool recognizing his inferiority was a win, she hadn¡¯t intended for him to ''actually leave.'' Shia pressed on, his bitter smile widening. ¡°From now on, you¡¯ll have to live without me by your side.¡± ¡°I¡¯m sure someone better will come along¡ªsomeone who can protect you.¡± Lilith froze, her lips trembling as she struggled to speak. ¡°You¡¡± Shia cut her off. ¡°I can¡¯t meet your expectations. I¡¯m worthless. Staying here will only cause more pain. I might as well drop out.¡± Lilith was floored. She wanted to belittle him, sure¡ªbut not push him away completely! ''Did I overdo it?'' Shia turned, his head hanging low, as if preparing to leave for good. Panic flashed across Lilith¡¯s face. On instinct, she grabbed his wrist. ¡°Why would you think that?¡± Her tone softened. ¡°When there¡¯s a problem, we find solutions. You can¡¯t just give up!¡± But Shia remained resolute, his back still turned. ¡°You don¡¯t need to say anything. I understand now. I¡¯m not good enough. I don¡¯t deserve to stand by your side.¡± Lilith¡¯s heart raced. She¡¯d never truly seen Shia as a real fianc¨¦, but how could she let her most useful tool walk away? Now, her priority had shifted: she needed to reignite his spirit. Unbeknownst to her, Lilith had already fallen into Shia¡¯s trap¡ªand she didn¡¯t even realize it. Chapter 16: The Silver-Haired Maid Loses Her Spark Chapter 16: The Silver-Haired Maid Loses Her Spark ¡°Shia, you need to believe in yourself. You¡¯re an incredible person; how could you ever be trash?¡± Lilith¡¯s voice was so sweet it could drip honey¡ªa tone she had never used on her so-called fianc¨¦ before. Her gentleness was usually reserved for other heroines. ¡°I just wanted to motivate you,¡± she continued, soft and soothing. ¡°You¡¯re amazing¡ªit¡¯s only my foolish desires that made me want my man to be even better.¡± ¡°Getting into Seven Shields Academy already proves how talented you are. You have a great family background, you¡¯re handsome, and to me, you¡¯re the most dashing hero!¡± Shia listened to the golden-haired beauty¡¯s saccharine performance with barely concealed amusement. How flexible this ¡°bad woman¡± could be! Watching her switch from manipulative to pitiful was oddly entertaining. Lilith gently placed her hands on his shoulders, turning him to face her. Her touch was soft and intimate as if they shared a deep bond. She studied his blank expression and downcast demeanor. His despondency seemed to cut through her confident facade, and she redoubled her efforts to comfort him. No matter how sweet her words, Shia¡¯s spirits didn¡¯t lift. He remained withdrawn and dejected. This wasn¡¯t going well. If he really left, what would she do? Biting her lip, Lilith made a decision. If words weren¡¯t enough, she¡¯d have to try a different approach. Time to indulge a boy¡¯s special preferences. --- Lilith swayed her slender waist and perched gracefully on a tall stool. Her long, stocking-clad legs extended elegantly¡ªone foot resting on a stool rung, the other lightly touching the floor. Her heels clicked softly as they met the ground, their muted impact carrying an oddly hypnotic rhythm. The sheer black stockings clung to her legs, offering glimpses of her alabaster skin beneath. Leaning forward slightly, her red dress shifted, revealing just a hint of her ample curves. Her manicured fingers¡ªpainted with a soft pink polish¡ªtraced the silky surface of her stockings, sliding slowly from her calves upward, a movement designed to captivate.A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation. Sure enough, Shia¡¯s gaze was drawn to her actions, and Lilith¡¯s heart settled slightly. With delicate care, she lifted the hem of her dress and hooked her fingers beneath the edge of her stockings. A slight tug caused the stretchy fabric to roll down, revealing her smooth, luminous skin beneath the warm glow of the room. The combination of her half-removed stockings and her lingering gaze on Shia created a breathtakingly alluring scene. When she noticed his attention sharpen, she let out a quiet breath of relief. But just as her heart calmed, a sharp knock at the door made her nearly jump out of her skin. ¡°Miss Lilith, it¡¯s time to return.¡± Tia¡¯s cool, dutiful voice came through the door, startling Lilith. Panicked, she quickened her movements, sliding her stockings fully off and stepping barefoot toward Shia. She handed him the delicate garment, her cheeks tinged with a faint blush. ¡°Shia, I believe in you. You can do this!¡± she said earnestly. The stocking in her hand carried her warmth and scent, a tactile token of her encouragement. She placed it carefully into his palm, her soft hand lingering on his briefly. --- The door opened. Lilith, ever composed, turned back toward the room with a playful yet graceful air. ¡°Shia, I¡¯ll be going now~!¡± The room¡¯s light spilled into the hallway, illuminating Tia¡¯s striking silver hair. As the stoic maid stood outside, she immediately noticed something odd about her mistress. Lilith¡¯s legs, usually perfectly clad, were bare. Her gaze drifted to her exposed feet. Why was she barefoot? Her sharp eyes scanned the room¡¯s interior. When her gaze landed on the stocking on the bed, she froze. It was unmistakable¡ªthose were Lilith¡¯s. What had just happened in this room? Shia sat calmly, his expression as refined as ever, though there was a faint air of exhaustion about him. He didn¡¯t even acknowledge Tia¡¯s presence outside the door. --- The connection was painfully clear to Tia. Her icy demeanor cracked. Her once-proud, glowing eyes dulled. ''He¡ has Lilith¡¯s stockings?'' And freshly removed ones at that. What had happened here? The cold realization sent a pang of despair through Tia¡¯s chest. She bit her lip, her gaze hollow, as if shattered by the revelation. Her heart ached as though it had been torn apart. In that instant, her disdain for Shia deepened into hatred. ''He has to go!'' Tia resolved to drive him away at any cost. But as her trembling eyes met Shia¡¯s calm, unreadable gaze, her body shivered involuntarily. His presence was oppressive¡ªintimidating in a way that defied logic. --- After escorting Lilith and Tia out, Shia returned to his room, his expression cool and indifferent. Was he actually going to give up? Of course not. The act had been for Lilith¡¯s benefit alone. The upcoming freshman qualification tournament consisted of two rounds. Rankings would determine resource allocations and status within the academy. In gaming terms, it was the key to maximizing his early reputation. Why hide his strength? What was the point of playing the weakling? He had no time to waste on such pretense. Even without Lilith¡¯s manipulative pressure, Shia intended to give it his all. --- Elsewhere in the academy, under the pale moonlight, a graceful figure stood quietly. Her tall, curvaceous silhouette was clad in a fine silk nightgown, the delicate straps highlighting her radiant, supple skin. Silver hair cascaded down her back, shimmering faintly in the moonlight. Violet, her celestial beauty glowing with a quiet determination, closed her eyes briefly, taking a deep breath of the cool night air. When she opened them, her gaze was clear and resolute, her eyes sparkling like stars. Though her expression was cold, it carried an undercurrent of fierce ambition. A knight stood silently behind her, ever-vigilant. Violet raised her eyes to the silver moon above, her thoughts unwavering. She had come to Seven Shields Academy to save her kingdom. The academy, once a bastion against the Demon Race, had evolved into a powerful institution shaping the future leaders of the world. Its influence extended even to smaller nations like her own Silver Moon Kingdom. Her goal was clear: secure her place in the academy, gain power, and protect her homeland. At the very least, she had to ease the burden on her aunt. Her first challenge was the freshman qualification tournament. Victory would grant her authority, resources, and recognition within the academy. She had to win. Her path to her ultimate ambition began here. Violet whispered softly to herself, her gaze unwavering. ¡°It¡¯s late. Let¡¯s return.¡± She lingered a moment longer, staring at the moon, before finally turning and walking back to her quarters. The freshman championship seat¡ªshe would claim it. At any cost.
A Special Thank You!: I want to extend my deepest gratitude to [julius jones], for supporting me on Patreon!Chapter 17: The Value of a Tool, Got It? Chapter 17: The Value of a Tool, Got It? The next day. The qualification matches officially started today. Some were excited and eager to perform well, while others were nervous, fearing they might be eliminated. Shia didn¡¯t overthink it. He quietly arrived at the testing venue and waited patiently for the first test to begin. The first test primarily assessed special skills. The test took place in the school''s Cultural Control Center, where the spacious arena in the center was large enough to accommodate hundreds of participants simultaneously. Surrounding the arena were tiered seats, where a few senior students who had taken the entrance exams before were sparsely seated to watch. Lilith was among them. On the platform overlooking the arena, the examiner was explaining the rules of the first test. Shia wasn¡¯t paying attention. His mind was elsewhere. The test focused on special skills, showcasing individual talents. However, these talents were graded on tiers. Skills like alchemy or magic formations, even combat-based ones such as swordsmanship or marksmanship, were highly valued and awarded more points. But the real highlight was the second test¡ªdungeon combat. ¡°Candidate number 136, Shia, special skill challenge: Forging.¡± As the announcement echoed through the arena, Shia stood up and walked into the testing area. Forging was considered one of the lowest-scoring special skills due to its widespread availability and general utility. In the spectator seats, a clear, crisp sound rang out. Lilith, with her sunny elegance, golden hair, and black stockings, was gripping the handrail with gloved hands, a frustrated smile on her face. Lilith was exasperated! Although her fianc¨¦ wasn¡¯t very skilled, he did have a variety of secondary professions. So why, of all things, did he choose forging¡ªthe one skill with the lowest score potential? A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation. Even choosing alchemy would¡¯ve been better! But she could only watch, unable to influence the test. All she could do was sit there anxiously. At the same time, Violet, the princess in white stockings, turned her head away, losing interest in this unconventional classmate. She felt a pang of disappointment. During yesterday¡¯s opening ceremony, she had been intrigued by him. She thought he might be someone impressive. But seeing his choice for the first test today, it was clear he was just someone who got in through connections. As someone riding on connections, he obviously didn¡¯t care about scores. That¡¯s why he hadn¡¯t looked at her yesterday. The first test wasn¡¯t the most important part, but anyone with a bit of ambition would choose a higher-scoring special skill. Shia¡¯s choice of forging had already branded him in Violet¡¯s mind as someone unmotivated¡ªa quitter. He wasn¡¯t even in the same league as her and didn¡¯t qualify to be her opponent. Such a person wasn¡¯t worth her attention. She averted her gaze and dismissed him from her thoughts. Forging as a special skill was just too unremarkable. It was understandable. While master blacksmiths did have some influence on the continent, a mere student couldn¡¯t compare to those masters who had access to the resources of the entire continent. Moreover, anything Shia forged would only have temporary use during the test. He couldn¡¯t take any of it with him. The requirements for passing the first test weren¡¯t particularly high. As long as students demonstrated basic skills, they could pass. What mattered was how much extra credit their chosen skill could earn. Hardly anyone else chose forging like Shia. The first test, based on the different skills chosen by participants, effectively sorted standout students from ordinary ones. Shia¡¯s choice undoubtedly disappointed everyone who had their eyes on him. But he chose it for a reason only he understood¡ªa strategy born from skipping steps in the system. Through the first test, he could craft weapons imbued with special attributes to deal massive critical damage to the dungeon boss in the second round! Even if the weapon could only be used once, if it was well-crafted, it would allow him to defeat the boss in record time. Do you even understand the value of a ninth-playthrough strategy? Shia had already mastered the nuances of the qualification matches. Forging might seem insignificant, scoring the fewest points, but it was the only skill that could meaningfully impact the second test! Standing before the forging table, Shia looked at the array of materials and tools, all of which he was intimately familiar with. With a secondary profession at level two or above, passing the test would be a breeze. But that was just the bare minimum¡ªit wasn¡¯t his limit! Shia placed the metallurgical materials into the forge and cast a spell to activate it. These spells were the key to forging, unlocking the materials¡¯ potential, refining their purity, and combining metals in precise proportions to grant weapons extra attributes. His swift, practiced movements were fluid, like a master artisan at work. The unremarkable forging station became an Eden in his hands, shaping the final weapon exactly as he envisioned. The examiners, initially uninterested in the forging test, found themselves drawn to Shia¡¯s actions. When one examiner saw how Shia refined the materials, his eyes widened slightly. Such speed and precision¡ªthis level of refinement required at least level eight forging skills! Yet this student wielded level eight techniques with such ease. A level nine forger was the pinnacle of mastery, while level eight alone was enough to earn the title of blacksmith master outside. And here was a mere freshman showcasing such skills in an entrance test. Still, it was just a test for a secondary skill. No matter how skilled he was, the scoring for forging remained the lowest. The examiner sighed and shook his head slightly, glancing at Shia before turning his attention to students with more promising special skills. What the examiner didn¡¯t realize was that Shia wasn¡¯t merely at level eight¡ªhe had reached level nine, the highest possible level in a secondary profession! A level nine forger could be called a blacksmith grandmaster. It was the pinnacle of human craftsmanship. And forging wasn¡¯t Shia¡¯s only fully maxed secondary profession. Lilith¡¯s frustration wasn¡¯t without reason. Shia knew other secondary professions but deliberately chose not to showcase them. It was maddening! His plethora of maxed-out secondary professions was one of the few perks in the game. By the mid-game academic arc, Shia¡¯s secondary professions would all be maxed out. Do you understand the value of such a versatile character? It wasn¡¯t just talk! Without these extraordinary secondary skills, would Lilith have clung to her tool-man fianc¨¦? Her purpose was simple¡ªto have Shia manage logistics and internal affairs so she could focus on wooing other girls. Regardless of the developer''s intention behind this setup, it worked entirely in Shia¡¯s favor. Though he lacked innate talent and combat strength for now, it was only temporary. Once he unlocked the first layer of the Charm Ring, its unique bonuses would elevate his secondary professions to legendary level 10. At that point, he would qualify to unlock the game¡¯s only hidden profession. Chapter 18: The Shy Succubus Princess Chapter 18: The Shy Succubus Princess With his mind set on the next steps, Shia''s hands moved skillfully, finishing his weapon forging. A simple yet ancient-looking dagger rested in his palm, imbued with one special effect: ''Holy Light Execution.'' ''Holy Light Execution:'' Inflicts 100%-1000% critical damage on demons based on their bloodline purity. One-time use only. At first glance, it seemed underwhelming. But for Shia, who understood the intricacies of the qualification matches, it was the perfect shortcut. The second test was dungeon combat, where the bosses were modeled after high-ranking demons who had already fallen. The test offered four difficulty levels: Easy, Hard, Hell, and Legendary. The higher the difficulty, the purer the boss¡¯s demonic bloodline, increasing the challenge for the participants. This was why Shia chose to forge a weapon. Holy Light Execution was inherently effective against demons. Against a boss in the Easy difficulty, the dagger¡¯s effect might seem mediocre. But the stronger the demon, the more powerful this dagger became¡ªpotentially achieving a one-hit kill! After the first test concluded, the second test, dungeon combat, began shortly. However, before the battles started, teams had to be formed. Teams required a minimum of two members and a maximum of five. The test encouraged teamwork and camaraderie among new students, assessing their interpersonal and leadership skills. Moreover, forming a team increased survival and success rates in the dungeon. As soon as the team formation phase began, the arena buzzed with activity as students scrambled to find teammates. Naturally, stronger individuals were in high demand. As the new student representative, Violet was a hot commodity. Everyone wanted to team up with someone powerful. Amid the flood of invitations, Violet remained calm and composed.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. Her plan was clear: tackle the Legendary-level dungeon, the highest difficulty. Legendary-level dungeons tested not only individual strength but also team coordination and leadership. When Violet announced her goal, many who had gathered around her hesitated and dispersed. The Legendary difficulty wasn¡¯t something most dared to challenge. They might dream of being carried by a top-tier teammate, but tackling such a dangerous challenge? They¡¯d rather settle for an easier dungeon. If they couldn¡¯t join the princess¡¯s team, they¡¯d find another group. Those who stayed by Violet¡¯s side were elite students, confident in their abilities. Soon, Violet selected four teammates, forming a well-balanced team: a tank to absorb damage, a high-damage-dealing mage, and a healer. A perfect lineup, fully utilizing the five-member limit. Meanwhile, others in the arena quickly finalized their teams, forming groups of varying strengths and sizes. They began introducing themselves and working on building rapport. In contrast to the radiant white-stockinged princess, another figure stood out for her isolation. A petite girl with a flat chest and an expressionless face emitted an aura of "Do Not Approach." Though undeniably adorable, her intimidating demeanor deterred anyone from approaching her for a team. If she got disqualified simply because she couldn¡¯t form a team, it would be a joke. Though her face remained cold and indifferent, internally, the girl was conflicted. She wanted to find teammates, but her hesitation had cost her. By the time she worked up the courage, everyone around her had already joined other teams. The chaotic scene earlier had now become clusters of people chattering and laughing, as if they were lifelong friends. ''How is making friends so easy for everyone else?'' The girl couldn¡¯t understand it. As she stood there, stuck in her dilemma, a hand suddenly extended toward her. ¡°Interested in teaming up with me?¡± The boy¡¯s voice was warm and gentle, pleasant to hear. For the struggling girl, his refined yet sunny demeanor felt like a ray of light piercing through the darkness. Rong looked up at the boy. The black-haired youth had an elegant and calm air, with strikingly handsome features. But she was confused. Who was he? Did they know each other? Why was he asking her to team up? Rong stared blankly at Shia¡¯s face, lost in thought. He was a complete stranger. She¡¯d never seen him before. Should she team up with him? This was her only invitation so far, and she was somewhat thrilled that someone had approached her. Yet her expression remained cold and aloof, giving off an unapproachable vibe. Anyone else might have interpreted her reaction as a rejection. But in truth, Rong felt relieved. Finally, someone had taken the initiative to invite her. She wanted to happily agree. Yet her face betrayed no emotion, and the words that escaped her lips were laced with doubt. ¡°Are you sure you won¡¯t drag me down?¡± Her cold, scrutinizing gaze came across as hostile. As soon as she spoke, she regretted it. She wanted to express joy, but instead, her words came out hurtful. Inside, she was torn, wanting to change her awkward personality. But this was how she¡¯d always been¡ªstubborn and awkward. It wasn¡¯t something she could fix overnight. She lowered her head, still expressionless. It seemed as though she wasn¡¯t interested in Shia¡¯s offer. In reality, Rong was silently beating herself up. ''He¡¯ll probably get mad and leave now, won¡¯t he?'' She didn¡¯t want this to happen. She didn¡¯t want to push away the only classmate who had reached out to her. But no matter how hard she tried, she couldn¡¯t control herself. ¡°Not really,¡± Shia¡¯s calm voice replied, sounding above her. His tone betrayed no hint of anger. Rong couldn¡¯t help but look up, meeting his tranquil gaze. He seemed relaxed, completely unfazed by her skepticism. Shia shrugged and finished his thought. ¡°After all, I¡¯m not much of a fighter. I can only provide you with a weapon.¡± Rong was surprised and glanced at Shia again, a strange feeling stirring inside her. ''He¡¯s not mad? Even after what I said?'' Shia had already moved to stand naturally by her side. ¡°So, does this mean we¡¯re officially a team?¡± Rong hesitated briefly, her strange feelings intensifying. Having someone to team up with was more than enough. Though their team was small, at least she wasn¡¯t alone anymore, standing apart from the rest. While her heart rippled with emotion, her expression remained stoic. Her face even seemed a bit sour. After a long moment, Shia finally heard a faint word escape her lips. The sound was so soft that if he hadn¡¯t been fully focused, he might have thought he imagined it. ¡°¡Yeah.¡± Chapter 19: The Succubuss Shame – I Refuse to Be a Lustful Woman Who Only Seduces Men Chapter 19: The Succubus''s Shame ¨C I Refuse to Be a Lustful Woman Who Only Seduces Men Shia knew her teammate''s true identity well¡ªshe was a succubus princess who had disguised herself to participate in the competition. Though she seemed unapproachable, in truth, she was simply a little socially anxious. There was even a hint of low self-esteem in her demeanor. Because of her insecurity and social anxiety, she often stayed away from others. She longed to change her current situation but kept pushing people away due to her self-doubt. This created a vicious cycle. Contradictory yet endearing. After all, she was a succubus known across the continent¡ªthough, unfortunately, more for infamy than fame. This stigma was rooted in historical issues. As a part of the demon race, the succubi were one of the few groups not eradicated during the demon-hunting war of old. Why? Because before the war began, the succubi betrayed their own kind and defected to the side of light. Switching allegiances from darkness to light might sound honorable. But that¡¯s all it is¡ªa nice-sounding story. Without sufficient power, history is written by the victors. Many accepted the succubi¡¯s defection, but even more scorned them for it. ¡°Traitors who turned their backs on their kind. They aren¡¯t human; who¡¯s to say they won¡¯t betray the human side someday and return to the demons?¡± Moreover, succubi weren¡¯t particularly strong in battle. In the Seven Shield Alliance, the succubi who defected were consistently looked down upon. As for the demons, their hatred for succubi ran so deep it bordered on loathing. Due to these racial prejudices, succubi struggled to thrive in the current world, facing limitations at every turn. The largest succubus settlement today was called the Dreamland of Illusions.Stolen novel; please report. Mentioning this place often elicited disdainful sneers¡ªor sly, knowing glances between people. Why? Because the Dreamland of Illusions was widely regarded as the largest brothel on the continent. The succubi had abandoned the demons to join the side of light, yet they could only survive by selling their bodies. This was simply their way of life. Thanks to their natural allure, the competition for clients was fierce, practically driving brothels of other races to extinction and forcing them to scrape by. The succubi¡¯s rise to prominence could almost be considered inspirational¡ªif viewed from a certain perspective. Given these circumstances, it was no surprise that the succubi had a poor reputation. Most people despised them. That said, they certainly didn¡¯t lack customers. Some people were quick to mock them publicly while eagerly indulging in their services in private. And what succubi needed most was essence¡ªenergy extracted from their clients. Thus, the Dreamland of Illusions persisted, creating what seemed to be a win-win situation. Customers left physically and mentally satisfied, while the succubi relied on their essence to survive and cultivate, becoming the most tender yet parasitic beings. But amidst this race of succubi who lived by seduction, there was one exception. Shia observed the young girl before him¡ªa soft and cute face with chubby, slightly bouncy cheeks that seemed inviting to poke. Her expression, however, was distant and icy, keeping everyone at arm¡¯s length. Her petite, frail body was paired with a flat, featureless figure. She looked like a small, emotionless, expressionless loli. She had cast aside everything that made a succubus a succubus. As an anomaly among succubi, even as a princess, she refused to live that way. Rong''s true goal was to pave a brand-new career path. She was a pioneer¡ªa rebel among succubi. Rong didn¡¯t want to languish in the Dreamland of Illusions, becoming a lustful succubus who wagged her tail and enticed clients to their rooms, content with mediocrity. That¡¯s why she concealed her identity and came to the Seven Shield Academy, seeking new possibilities for succubi¡ªa path that didn¡¯t rely on men. All pioneers deserve admiration for their courage. Without pioneers, everyone would walk the same old roads, never breaking through boundaries. Perhaps in the Seven Shield Academy, the strongest academy on the continent, Rong could find a new way forward for succubi. The thought gave her hope. Suddenly, she felt a gaze on her. Turning her head, she saw her only teammate staring at her with an indecipherable expression. Rong returned his gaze, her icy eyes filled with discontent. In truth, it wasn¡¯t hostility. If he looked at her, she would look back¡ªsimple as that. She was just curious. Why was he looking at her? ¡°What difficulty level do you want to choose?¡± Shia smiled, breaking the silence. Of course, she wanted the easiest one. As long as they passed, that was enough. That was Rong¡¯s initial thought, so she answered accordingly. ¡°Easy.¡± She wasn¡¯t particularly concerned about rankings or groupings. ¡°Do you trust me?¡± Shia stared into her eyes, noticing a flicker of confusion. ¡°Hm?¡± What did he mean by trust? Why would she trust him? If it came down to it, she could handle it alone. He had already admitted he was powerless. All she needed was a team to enter the second round of trials. ¡°I have a way to clear the highest difficulty.¡± Shia¡¯s tone was solemn, his gaze unwavering as it locked onto Rong. ¡°Why don¡¯t we try the legendary difficulty?¡± Rong looked at the handsome young man before her, his bold proposal causing a wave of hesitation in her heart. If they chose the highest difficulty and his so-called method failed, they would both fail the exam. A person with no combat talent claiming he could clear the highest difficulty¡ªit sounded utterly ridiculous. Her first reaction was disbelief. But then what? Should she change the difficulty? They were strangers who had only just met. Should she trust him? Rong lowered her head slightly, caught in a difficult dilemma. For safety¡¯s sake, they should choose an easy-level trial. But he had chosen her as his teammate without distancing himself despite her harsh words. If she didn¡¯t choose the legendary difficulty, what if he joined another team? Then she¡¯d be alone again. Shia was equally tense, though he didn¡¯t show it. It was a gamble. The charm ring had no effect on Rong. He was simply making a genuine suggestion. The decision was entirely in her hands. Asking a succubus princess to change the difficulty carried a 50% chance of rejection. If rejected, his strategy would fail before it even began. He wanted to score high, to maximize his influence and expand his power. Clearing an easy trial wouldn¡¯t win the championship. Now it was up to this succubus princess. Would she trust him and tackle the legendary difficulty? Games could be restarted, but reality didn¡¯t have save points. Shia waited silently for Rong¡¯s answer, his tension growing. Chapter 20: Do You Even Know the Power of a Dazzling Figure? Chapter 20: Do You Even Know the Power of a Dazzling Figure? "Rong and Shia''s team, please select the dungeon difficulty." "Legendary." The girl''s voice was soft yet icy, blunt and unyielding. The teacher responsible for opening the dungeon glanced at the two of them, slightly surprised. She could see their previous test scores. Both of them were at the bottom of the rankings, yet they dared to challenge the legendary difficulty? Though astonished, the teacher said nothing and activated the dungeon portal for them. Rong ultimately chose to trust Shia. After all, failing wouldn¡¯t result in punishment, only a lower score. That was better than being forced to drop out due to an inability to participate. Clearing the easiest difficulty would result in a low score, and failing the legendary difficulty would only lower it slightly more. She could live with that. Standing in the preparation room, Shia¡¯s face relaxed into a serene smile. Though he had no combat ability himself, as long as this succubus princess was with him, clearing the dungeon would be a breeze. Because the dagger he held was custom-made for her. From the moment the qualifiers began¡ªor even before that¡ªhe had resolved to find her and team up with her. This dagger was his gift to her, the perfect weapon tailored for her. "This is for you," Shia said, extending his hand. In his palm was a simple, unadorned dagger. It seemed ordinary at first glance, unremarkable in every way. But the longer one looked, the more it exuded an inexplicable, profound aura. Rong stared at the dagger before looking down at the sword at her waist, her designated weapon for battling the boss. She hesitated, neither speaking nor agreeing.If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. Shia pushed the dagger closer. "That one isn¡¯t suited for you." But she had never used a dagger before. Suddenly, Rong recalled Shia¡¯s earlier claim¡ªhe had a way to defeat the boss on the highest difficulty. After a brief hesitation, she reached out and took it. She¡¯d never held a dagger before. Yet the moment her fingers wrapped around it, a peculiar sensation washed over her. It felt perfectly natural in her grip. It was as if the dagger was made for her, fitting her hand like a missing piece of her soul. As though guided by destiny, she realized this was the weapon most suited for her. Rong was momentarily stunned but tightened her hold on the dagger. She glanced up at Shia, a flicker of excitement in her gaze. "Let¡¯s go," she said. Standing on the teleportation array, the two of them were engulfed by a violet six-pointed star¡¯s glow. The legendary dungeon began¡ª Around them, everything was chaos, dark mist swirling violently. The legendary boss appeared. Her long black hair flowed as if alive, dancing in the air. Her stunning, refined features radiated an aura of supreme authority. Shia¡¯s gaze moved downward. A narrow strip of cloth and a form-fitting black battle suit covered her neck down to her waist, leaving strategic cutouts that highlighted her voluptuous curves. The sight of her dazzling figure exuded a palpable pressure that was hard to ignore. Her short, uneven skirt barely concealed what needed to be hidden, exposing long, shapely legs wrapped in torn stockings that left visible indentations like bindings. The demonic beauty swayed slightly. She was none other than a high-ranking archdemon¡ªa Duchess of the Demon Race. Rong¡¯s mouth fell open slightly as she stared, then looked down at herself. A flat-chested princess was no match for this. The tall, curvaceous archdemon looked down at the two insignificant insects before her, her gaze filled with contempt. A human with no combat ability and a¡ wait, a succubus? The archdemon instantly recognized Rong¡¯s true identity. She muttered softly in the demon language, unintelligible to humans. "One of my kind, yet you stand with the humans?" The archdemon was puzzled and irritated by this apparent betrayal. Rong remained silent, her expression icy as if she hadn¡¯t understood the archdemon¡¯s words. In reality, she was sneaking glances at Shia, worried he might discover her true identity. And then she witnessed Shia¡¯s theatrics. "Demon! We¡¯re here to defeat you!" he shouted. The archdemon turned her gaze to Shia, her disdain growing even more palpable. "Hmph, two pathetic worms." "Then do you dare withstand a blow from these worms?" Such a crude taunt. The archdemon sneered, twirling in midair as her hair and skirt swayed dramatically. Her dazzling figure seemed ready to spill out at any moment. She could tell this was an obvious provocation, but what of it? Her inherent arrogance as a demon led her to accept the challenge despite knowing better. "Very well. It¡¯s been ages since I¡¯ve had insects amuse me. I¡¯ll stand still and let you strike. Let¡¯s see what you can do." Rong sighed in relief. So Shia didn¡¯t understand the demon language after all? But her relief was short-lived. Why was he still provoking the boss?! Although they were there to clear the dungeon, such reckless taunts seemed counterproductive. Shia gave Rong an encouraging look, even pumping his fist subtly. Go on! Don¡¯t hesitate¡ªattack her! Under his urging, Rong struck. Her attack was unremarkable, hesitant even. But a boss must be dealt with, right? Getting a free hit without retaliation seemed like a rare opportunity worth seizing. The archdemon¡¯s disdain deepened as she watched the little succubus move. "With that pathetic strength? I could let you stab me a hundred times and still remain unharmed." Her contempt was palpable. But in the next moment¡ª ¡°-9999!¡± A single critical hit! Blood splattered as the archdemon, who had been condescendingly mocking them seconds earlier, was severely wounded. An unprecedented sense of weakness overcame her. The once-haughty demon duchess now looked utterly confused, her bewitching face full of disbelief. How was this possible? This little succubus, who hadn¡¯t even absorbed any essence and barely had combat strength, managed to land such a devastating blow! Glaring at Rong, she couldn¡¯t help but cry out in shock: "Are you cheating?!" Rong was equally stunned. What was going on?! She looked at the dagger in her hand, then at Shia. She knew her strength well enough¡ªthis could only be explained by the dagger he had given her. It felt surreal. "Quick, finish her off while she¡¯s weakened," Shia urged. "If she recovers, we¡¯ll be in serious trouble." Still dazed, Rong instinctively obeyed. Another strike. Instant kill! "You humans are despicable!" The archdemon¡¯s final words were filled with indignation as she realized too late that she had been utterly played. Shia scratched his head sheepishly, smiling brightly. "All¡¯s fair in war. Thanks for the compliment, big sister~!" Rong finally snapped out of her shock, looking at Shia¡¯s cheerful expression with a shiver. This guy seemed more demonic than she was!
A Special Thank You!: I want to extend my deepest gratitude to [ErnestTheSlothlord], for supporting me on Patreon!Chapter 21: A Succubus Maid About to Be Won Chapter 21: A Succubus Maid About to Be Won Suddenly, Shia turned his head. Rong¡¯s heart skipped a beat, and she felt an urge to retreat. Shia, however, simply smiled kindly. "Why are you looking at me like that?" For some reason, Rong felt a bit scared. Though Shia was her teammate, he was just a powerless human¡ªso why did she feel intimidated? At that moment, a vast and majestic voice echoed from above. "Congratulations to Rong and Shia¡¯s team for clearing the legendary trial." The announcement made Rong realize something serious. If she went out now, she¡¯d be surrounded by onlookers, wouldn¡¯t she? Just imagining the crowd made the socially anxious princess want to flee. A hand extended in front of her. She followed the hand upward and met Shia¡¯s smiling face. "We¡¯ve been through life and death together¡ªdon¡¯t you think it¡¯s fair to call us friends?" He genuinely just wanted a handshake as a friendly gesture. But to the reclusive succubus princess, even the smallest kindness from others felt like a threat. Someone like her¡ªwhy would anyone want to be friends with her? If, one day, her true identity was revealed, wouldn¡¯t he look at her with disgust? Better not to make friends at all. Rong stepped back, widening the distance between them. Her innate insecurity was evident, her expression tinged with fear. "No need. I don¡¯t need friends."Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon. Suppressing her inner yearning, she withdrew into her shell once more. She even generously ceded all the glory to Shia. Facing the prospect of being the center of attention, she just couldn¡¯t handle it. Though Shia was aware of her social anxiety, he was still surprised by her decision. "You¡¯re even giving up the naming rights?" They had cleared the trial together, yet she wanted to disappear into the background? This would mean giving up both the resources and prestige that came with victory. "Yes," Rong nodded. "You¡¯ll regret this," Shia said seriously. It wasn¡¯t a threat, just a matter-of-fact statement¡ªa kind reminder. Most people in his position would have been overjoyed, eager to accept the opportunity to stand alone in the spotlight. Rong either didn¡¯t understand or chose to ignore his words. She simply waved her hand and turned to leave. Alone, she had arrived; alone, she departed, vanishing without a trace, carefree as if this entire experience was just a fleeting interlude. After all, being surrounded by a crowd? That was terrifying! She left because she wasn¡¯t here for fame but to forge a new path. Prestige and accolades didn¡¯t matter to her. Shia remained where he stood, watching Rong¡¯s figure disappear, a subtle, meaningful smile on his face. Though his attempt to make friends had failed, he had just unlocked a hidden strategy. [Unlocked: A Succubus Maid About to Be Won.] While this was how it worked in the game, reality was far less certain. Still, he was confident he could improve her favorability. To unlock the first seal of the charm ring, he needed the key¡ªthe succubus princess. Now that he¡¯d found the key, the next step was to figure out how to unlock it¡ªby placing the ring on her tail. But a succubus¡¯s tail wasn¡¯t something to be touched lightly. The tail was a unique secondary trait of the succubi, both a vulnerable weak spot and an intimate extension of their character. Even in the Dreamland of Illusions, no amount of money could grant customers access to a succubus¡¯s tail, let alone allow them to place a ring on it. Without a deep level of trust and intimacy, it was impossible. And this socially anxious princess, despite their life-and-death encounter, wouldn¡¯t even dare to make friends. The difficulty level was maxed out. Still, compared to the other keys he needed, Rong was currently the simplest goal to achieve. As for the others¡ Shia¡¯s mind conjured images of several figures, and he couldn¡¯t help but shudder. They were all extremely dangerous individuals. Without a certain level of physical endurance, dealing with them would be impossible. Next to those women, the socially anxious succubus princess was, ironically, the least threatening. --- Meanwhile, the sound of white leather boots on gravel echoed. Sheer lace stockings, revealing a tantalizing glimpse of thigh above her short skirt, moved with an elegant grace. Violet strode forward, her footsteps steady despite the slippery path. Yet she paid no mind to such minor inconveniences. "Mage, flank from behind. Tank, keep the boss¡¯s attention. Healer, don¡¯t forget to debuff the boss. No mistakes during this phase!" Her voice was clear and commanding as she directed her team in battle. Before her stood the Archdemon Duchess, her health bar critically low. The endgame was near. Following Violet¡¯s orders, her team moved into position, executing her strategy flawlessly. From start to finish, Violet¡¯s leadership was impeccable. She had calculated every detail¡ªtheir positions, attack rhythms, and the tank¡¯s engagement path. The tank¡¯s placement not only blocked the boss¡¯s attacks on the damage-dealers but also kept them within the healer¡¯s range. After their initial burst, they chipped away at the boss¡¯s health in a steady rhythm until they were ready for another full-force assault. Now, they had reached their fourth and final phase. "Go!" Violet commanded. The team shifted positions once more. The tank drew all the Archdemon Duchess¡¯s aggression, while the mages launched a relentless barrage of attacks from behind. The healer alternated between healing the tank¡¯s injuries and replenishing the team¡¯s stamina, all while casting debuffs on the boss. Everything was proceeding according to Violet¡¯s meticulous plan. The Archdemon Duchess¡¯s health plummeted, her life force dropping like an elevator in freefall. At last, with an anguished wail, the boss fell. "Congratulations to Violet¡¯s team for clearing the Hell difficulty in 4 minutes, 30.67 seconds." The dungeon¡¯s system voice echoed across the space. Four and a half minutes?! The team erupted in cheers. All eyes turned to one person. Such an outstanding performance was undoubtedly exceptional. While their time wasn¡¯t on par with historical records, within this year¡¯s batch of newcomers, they were unmatched. Their first clear was assured! And it was all thanks to their leader¡ªtheir top damage dealer and strategist¡ªViolet! Chapter 22: Record Broken, the Mature Principal Takes Notice Chapter 22: Record Broken, the Mature Principal Takes Notice The six-pointed star array flashed with violet light, and five figures appeared within the magic circle. In the center stood a silver-haired woman, elegant and noble, her demeanor reserved but brimming with youthful vitality. Behind her were young men and women in their prime, their exuberance less restrained than hers. ¡°Thanks to Princess Violet''s command, we cleared the dungeon at such a remarkable speed.¡± ¡°Her Highness Violet dealt the most damage to the boss among us. Without you, we¡¯d have been stuck for much longer.¡± Compliments flowed as the four companions looked at the white-silk-clad princess with admiration and respect. Violet, however, remained composed, neither arrogant nor smug. Everything was progressing exactly as she had anticipated. If As teams began to emerge from the teleportation circle, some celebrated while others appeared dejected. Violet stood calmly to the side, unconcerned with the difficulties or timing of others. She was confident that no one could surpass her. The second test scores were based on three factors: dungeon difficulty, clearing speed, and contribution. Clearing Hell difficulty in four and a half minutes¡ªwhile not unprecedented¡ªwas an exceptional feat. Soon, the results for the new students began to be announced, starting from the lowest scores. At first, it was a long list of failed attempts, each assigned a score based on performance. Then came those who cleared the dungeon at easy difficulty, followed by those at hard, and finally, Hell difficulty. By the time the twelfth rank was reached, it was already a team that had cleared Legendary difficulty.If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it. Violet remained indifferent, waiting quietly. ¡°Second place: Violet. Cleared Legendary difficulty in 4 minutes 30.67 seconds.¡± The announcement was calm, but the words struck Violet like a thunderclap. Second place? Impossible! If she was second, then who was first? Could someone actually be faster? Even her teammates, who had been singing her praises moments ago, fell silent. The majority of the freshmen waiting for the results were also stunned. What was going on? Why wasn¡¯t the princess in first place? Wasn¡¯t she supposed to be the top of their year? Could someone really have stolen her thunder? Violet, who had been confident she would take first place, hadn¡¯t bothered to look at the announcement on the synchronized screen. Now, however, she had to know. Finally, she looked up. Almost as soon as her gaze landed on the screen, the line above her name caught her attention. ¡°First place: Shia. Cleared time: 59 seconds.¡± Violet¡¯s pupils contracted in disbelief. She had thought the gap between her and the first place would be minuscule. After all, her team was composed of the top freshmen and had the most optimal lineup. But she wasn¡¯t just beaten; she was utterly surpassed¡ªby a huge margin! Clearing in under a minute? Was that even humanly possible? The final boss of Legendary difficulty was a demon grand duke, the pinnacle of demonkind¡¯s power. Violet stared at the name on the screen, her mind blank as the announcement echoed in her ears. Clearing Legendary difficulty was already a monumental feat, one achieved only by the most outstanding individuals across the academy¡¯s history. But not only had this person cleared it¡ªthey did so in 59 seconds! What kind of achievement was this? The previous record was one and a half minutes, set by the Twilight Empress when she co-founded Seven Shields Academy. For everyone else, clearing it in under five minutes was enough to make history. But this person had shattered the record¡ªnot by a mere second but by a staggering thirty seconds! The crowd erupted into astonished murmurs. This was not just a success; it was an earth-shattering display of talent. Everyone was asking the same question: Who was Shia? What was their identity? This was the undisputed No. 1 among the freshmen! In the first test, Shia had been so laid-back that no one paid attention to them. Now, however, everyone was in shock. Instead of a familiar name surpassing Violet, it was someone they had never even heard of. All eyes turned to the screen, curious to see the individual¡¯s image, which would be displayed alongside the rankings. The black-haired boy who appeared was breathtakingly handsome, his refined and gentle aura accompanied by a faint, easy smile. It was him! Violet stared at the screen, stunned. It was the boy she had noticed yesterday. All eyes turned from the screen to their surroundings, and the girl nearest to Shia let out an excited squeal. Her scream set off a chain reaction. The entire crowd surged toward Shia, surrounding him in the center. By outperforming Violet in the qualifications, Shia naturally replaced her as the new idol among the girls. Who could resist a talented and handsome young man? --- Meanwhile, atop the academy¡¯s iconic and tallest structure, the Divine Grace Clocktower¡ In a grand, luxurious office, a mature black-haired beauty reclined on a leather sofa. Her exquisite features were framed by a perfect oval face, with soft lips and a delicate nose. Long lashes veiled her crimson eyes. She lounged languidly, her head propped on one hand. Her voluptuous figure pressed into the sofa, her deep neckline revealing an enticing cleavage. Her slender waist and slightly soft belly added to her allure, while her long legs, clad in tight black stockings, exuded sensuality. The entire aura she radiated was one of decadent seduction, capable of captivating anyone who saw her. She had received news of the freshmen¡¯s results before they even appeared on the screen. The highest record had been shattered? Her crimson eyes opened, their captivating gaze seemingly piercing into one¡¯s soul. Surprise flickered in those ruby orbs. Clearing Hell difficulty in under a minute? The demon grand duke defeated so swiftly? A hint of amusement replaced the surprise in her gaze. The mature beauty sat upright, her ample chest heaving with the motion. Even while seated, she couldn¡¯t see her toes due to her figure. She rose and walked to the window, gazing toward the freshman arena, a peculiar light gleaming in her eyes. It seemed someone warranted her personal attention. Chapter 23: My Dog, Back Off, You Bitches! Chapter 23: My Dog, Back Off, You Bitches! On the third floor of a small villa, there was a sunbathing area complete with a crystal-clear swimming pool, a birch wood deck, elegant sofas, and shrubbery. Two lounge chairs were set up under a parasol. At this moment, a blonde young lady of noble status reclined on one of the chairs, basking in the sun. Her long, slender legs stretched out beyond the parasol, soaking up the sunlight. Propped halfway up on the chair, she lazily sipped sweet coconut juice while sneaking glances below at the vibrant energy of this year¡¯s freshmen. What a feast for the eyes. These lively and youthful junior girls must be utterly delightful. Lilith¡¯s mind wandered as she pondered how to motivate Shia after he inevitably failed to clear the dungeon. She envisioned him groveling in gratitude and pledging himself to her after receiving her encouragement. But her musings were interrupted when her white-haired maid, Tia, suddenly burst out with a startled exclamation. Lilith frowned slightly, turning her gaze toward Tia, her expression stern. ¡°What¡¯s the rush?¡± The two were some distance from the central area. While they could see the rankings displayed on the large screen, they couldn¡¯t hear the announcements. Tia¡¯s face was filled with shock, her lips trembling as she struggled to speak. ¡°Y-Young Lady, something big has happened.¡± ¡°What could possibly have you so flustered?¡± Lilith spoke languidly as she leisurely sat up from her lounge chair. Her slightly arched back, ample chest, and slender waist created an irresistible view. ¡°Miss, the first place... the first place is¡¡± Lilith didn¡¯t hear the rest. As she sat up, her gaze landed directly on the large screen in front of her.The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. "First place: Shia. Cleared Legendary Dungeon in 59 seconds." Lilith froze. Her red lips parted slightly, her face a picture of disbelief. Was she seeing things? Who was in first place? Could there be another freshman with the same name as her fianc¨¦? But then the portraits of the top ten performers were displayed, and the handsome black-haired boy on the screen confirmed it¡ªthere was no mistake. It was Shia. It felt like a dream. Lilith staggered off her lounge chair, rushing to the railing to get a closer look at Shia¡¯s portrait. ¡°Did my encouragement actually work?¡± This was the first thought that popped into Lilith¡¯s mind once she confirmed the news. She couldn¡¯t believe her charm was so potent. Did she possess such a hidden talent? If just giving him a pair of worn stockings had this effect, what if she personally delivered them while wearing them and asked for something in return? Wouldn¡¯t she be unstoppable!? Lilith¡¯s imagination spiraled in a honeyed haze of self-assurance. Still, despite her inner surprise, her outward words were another story. "Not bad, I suppose. Barely acceptable." Her airy tone made it seem as though Shia¡¯s first place was a minor achievement, well within her expectations. ¡°Just enough to meet my minimum standard,¡± she added with a crisp, confident voice that left Tia in awe. As expected of her young lady¡ªcalm and collected even in the face of the unbelievable. Tia¡¯s admiration for Lilith deepened. As Shia¡¯s official fianc¨¦e, Lilith naturally wanted to "congratulate" him in a way that subtly reminded him not to get too cocky. But when she arrived at Shia¡¯s location, she found herself unable to even get close. The area had become the center of attention, with countless girls crowding around Shia, eager to learn how he had cleared the hardest dungeon so quickly. Many also took the chance to express their admiration. Seeing Shia bask in such adoration, Lilith felt a pang of annoyance. ''He¡¯s just my lapdog¡ªhow dare so many girls fawn over him?'' They should be worshipping ''her,'' not him! But an awkward reality set in. When Lilith tried to approach, she couldn¡¯t push through the throng. Even calling out was futile. Surrounded by a sea of youthful, energetic girls, Shia was experiencing a mix of joy and torment. In a place filled with top-tier individuals, competition was inevitable, and every girl wanted to make a connection with the new number one freshman. Shia remained polite and humble, seizing the moment to make a positive impression. The girls were thrilled. Getting to chat with the top freshman and possibly even becoming friends was an opportunity too good to pass up. Such was the power of reputation. Without it, no one would care who you were, what you liked, or where you were from. Even approaching them would likely result in indifference. But with fame, people naturally flocked to you. And so, ironically, Lilith¡ªhis legitimate fianc¨¦e¡ªwas left out in the cold. She tried pushing her way in but was met with glares and complaints from the other girls. Who wouldn¡¯t want to get closer to the new number one? Why should someone else jump the line? The girls didn¡¯t care who Lilith was. At this moment, their eyes were fixed solely on Shia. Lilith stood on the outskirts of the crowd, stunned. ''When did I have to queue to see my own lapdog?'' ''Who¡¯s the master here?!'' The once-proud noblewoman was rendered speechless, as if struck by lightning. ''This is my dog! You bitches, stop trying to steal him!'' Yet, with so many people present, Lilith could only watch helplessly from the sidelines. She cursed herself for not arriving earlier. Had she known Shia would secure first place, she would have waited for him in advance. Then, when his results were announced, she could have basked in the spotlight alongside him, surrounded by adoring fans. Now, all she could feel was a mix of envy, pride, and an odd sense of satisfaction. ''The one you all admire belongs to me, you know! My dog!'' But being unable to approach him was¡ awkward. Meanwhile, Shia, unaware of Lilith¡¯s predicament, was overwhelmed by the sudden attention. Though he anticipated some fame as the new top freshman, he didn¡¯t expect such a frenzy. Even so, he handled the situation gracefully¡ªuntil he felt a sneaky hand graze him. ''Who just touched me?!'' With so many people around, it was impossible to tell. As the chaos continued, a deep, magnetic voice suddenly rang out from a short distance away. The voice wasn¡¯t loud, yet it carried a commanding presence that silenced the crowd. ¡°Little ones, have you had enough fun?¡± Chapter 24: The Overwhelming Presence of the Big Sister Chapter 24: The Overwhelming Presence of the Big Sister The moment the voice was heard, it seemed to possess a magical quality, soothing the restless crowd. The girls instinctively quieted down, even parting to create a path through the throng. Those on the outer edges couldn¡¯t see what was happening but caught a whiff of a faint, entrancing fragrance that left them bewitched and yearning for more. Shia, too, caught the fragrance and heard the magnetic voice. He saw the crowd surrounding him part as a figure made its way toward him. However, unlike the others, his brow furrowed slightly when he saw who it was. This wasn¡¯t like the game at all. How had he managed to draw out ''her''? Long, sleek black hair framed a face of stunning beauty. With every step, her impossibly large chest quivered dramatically, barely contained by a neckline that seemed ready to burst. The deep white skin revealed by the strained fabric was enough to drive anyone mad. Her waist swayed seductively as she moved, exuding an intoxicating charm. Something was definitely off. Why had ''she'' shown up here? As Shia pondered, an unexpected suffocating sensation enveloped him. His face was buried in a soft, elastic expanse, entirely cutting off his air supply. A slender, pale hand pressed against the back of his head, sinking his face even deeper into the plush softness. In his ears, a low, magnetic whisper mingled with the fragrance surrounding him. ¡°You smell absolutely delicious~!¡± The seductive tone was almost hypnotic, and Shia felt himself losing it. Or rather, losing air.This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it If she didn¡¯t let go soon, he was genuinely going to suffocate! Sensing the increasingly desperate struggles of the boy in her embrace, Diana finally released him, allowing Shia to gasp for breath. His face flushed red¡ªnot from embarrassment, but from oxygen deprivation¡ªand his hair was slightly disheveled. As he looked up, his first impression could only be summed up in one word: awe-inspiring. ''They¡¯re too big!'' The overwhelming size made it impossible for him to see her face at first glance. Compared to Lady Ella, who was already imposing, Diana''s presence was on a completely different level. Realizing that the boy in her arms couldn¡¯t even see her face, Diana bent slightly, pressing her hands against her chest to give him a better view. Her delicate features were like a painting, her crimson eyes sparkling with allure. Her small, oval face exuded a mature, seductive charm that was almost too much to bear. Her hands, though not small, seemed tiny as they pressed against her chest, emphasizing the staggering size and softness of the curves beneath them. Even though Shia stood at a respectable 180 cm, he felt diminutive next to Diana¡¯s tall and elegant frame. The sight triggered a single thought in the minds of those watching: ''A small horse pulling a large cart?'' Gasps of surprise rippled through the crowd. The proctors nearby stood respectfully before Diana, making her identity unmistakable. Black hair, crimson eyes, and the deferential attitudes of the staff¡ªthere was no mistaking it. The big sisterly figure before them was none other than the academy¡¯s principal. Lilith¡¯s eyes widened in shock as she alternated between looking at the principal and her fianc¨¦. The sheer intimacy of their interaction left her utterly stunned. The ''principal'' was here? ¡°Good day, Principal,¡± Shia greeted politely. His greeting caused a stir among the freshmen. Diana smiled warmly, reaching out to ruffle Shia¡¯s hair. ¡°Well, well, you¡¯ve got good eyes, little one.¡± Shia merely smiled in return, saying nothing more. He hadn¡¯t expected to attract her attention. Diana slid her arm around Shia¡¯s shoulder, pulling him back into her embrace. ¡°So, you¡¯re this year¡¯s top freshman?¡± While still slightly smothering, the sensation was now within tolerable limits. ¡°Thank you for the compliment, Principal.¡± ¡°You¡¯re quite impressive, little one. Come, let the principal personally entertain you.¡± With that, Diana half-embraced Shia and began walking away. The crowd¡¯s gaze followed them, filled with envy. To be personally invited by the principal¡ªit was an honor beyond words. Even among the freshmen, such recognition was nearly unheard of. ¡°Does getting first place really earn you a meeting with the principal?¡± someone asked, their voice tinged with jealousy. ¡°Are you kidding? Do you think being a mere top freshman warrants this kind of attention? Even the best graduates rarely receive this honor.¡± ¡°Then why¡?¡± ¡°It must be because Shia broke the record,¡± someone knowledgeable about the academy replied, their tone still filled with awe. Meanwhile, Violet stood apart from the crowd, surrounded by a few loyal followers. Her gaze remained fixed on Shia¡¯s retreating figure. Next to the tall, imposing Diana, even Shia¡¯s 180 cm stature seemed small, giving the impression of a delicate bird in her protective grasp. Yet no one found the scene funny. The envy in their eyes said it all. Violet reflected inwardly. Without Shia, would she have received such an honor? No, she wouldn¡¯t have. Though her achievement of four and a half minutes was impressive, it hadn¡¯t surpassed any historical records. It was good enough to earn the admiration of her mentors, but not to attract the principal¡¯s personal attention. Over the years, the principal had rarely made public appearances, let alone extended personal invitations. Yet this time, she had come in person for Shia. Understanding this only deepened Violet¡¯s sense of defeat. She had planned everything meticulously, yet things had still turned out this way. Before enrolling, Violet had researched all the notable talents among this year¡¯s freshmen. Shia¡¯s name had not come up even once. And yet, he had achieved something far beyond her expectations¡ªso far that she could only look up to him in awe. Four and a half minutes versus 59 seconds¡ªa gap of three and a half minutes. What had taken her precise coordination to achieve, Shia could have done four times over with ease. It was no wonder the principal had taken notice. Even so, Violet couldn¡¯t help but feel bitter. ''Who is he?'' Someone so remarkable couldn¡¯t have been entirely unknown. Yet until today, Shia had been nothing more than a vague impression in her mind¡ªa boy who had stood out slightly during the entrance ceremony but nothing more. Chapter 25: Be Scared, Wont You? Otherwise, Ill Be Embarrassed! Chapter 25: Be Scared, Won''t You? Otherwise, I''ll Be Embarrassed! Lilith blinked hard, feeling an overwhelming sense of absurdity. She had thought it was already remarkable enough to draw the principal¡¯s attention, but for Shia to receive a personal invitation from her? Watching the two figures walk away so closely, Lilith was dumbfounded. While she had always known Shia was useful, his sudden display of extraordinary brilliance left her anxious and unsure. What made her even more envious was seeing Shia surrounded by girls and getting cozy with the imposing older sister figure. The image of Diana¡¯s chest smothering Shia flashed in Lilith¡¯s mind, and her cheeks turned crimson, her eyes sparkling with a strange glimmer. In her imagination, she replaced Shia in that scene, envisioning herself buried in that warm, soft embrace, rubbing against it fiercely. The thought was so indulgent that Lilith couldn¡¯t help but smile, her face radiating joy. ''Just a little perverted, a true degenerate among degenerates.'' Her wide grin and drooling expression made her look utterly lost in fantasy. Suddenly, Lilith snapped back to reality, hastily wiping the smile off her face. Tia, standing nearby, couldn¡¯t shake the strange feeling that something was off with her mistress. However, Lilith, caught up in her newfound confidence, paid no attention to her loyal maid¡¯s concerns. ''So many girls adore this guy, and he¡¯s mine!'' With such a valuable "tool" at her disposal, Lilith felt that the targets she could pursue had significantly expanded. She didn¡¯t doubt Shia¡¯s loyalty; she was absolutely confident he would help her achieve her goals. Her future looked bright, and Lilith could already envision her perfect life ahead. Wiping her mouth dramatically, she adopted a serious and determined expression, as if preparing for battle. ''The global conquest plan begins now!'' ---Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel. Meanwhile, Shia found himself semi-coerced into following Diana. However, after walking a short distance, she let him go and turned to him with a warm, kind smile. "Shall we?" Shia rubbed his sore neck and followed her. But instead of heading toward the Divine Grace Clocktower, they veered off in a different direction. The surroundings grew increasingly lush and secluded, with fewer and fewer people around. Eventually, the sounds of students gave way to bird calls and the hum of insects. The shaded forest grew dimmer, the sunlight filtering through the trees becoming cold and subdued. Suddenly, Diana stopped. Shia, having anticipated something, also halted in time to avoid bumping into her. He looked up, meeting her crimson eyes. Diana¡¯s gaze was intense, scanning him from head to toe. Her entire demeanor exuded an intimidating presence that sent shivers through the air. The wind rustled her hair and clothing, the black strands fluttering like shadows. For anyone else, this would have been utterly terrifying. ¡°How did you cheat?¡± Her crimson gaze locked onto his face, her tone sharp and unyielding. The suffocating aura around her grew thicker, pressing down like an invisible weight. Clearing the Legendary trial dungeon in under a minute was an impossible feat. How could a mere freshman achieve such a result? It was only natural for her to be suspicious. The previous record-holder was the legendary Twilight Empress herself. To Diana, there was no plausible explanation other than cheating. However, Shia remained calm under her oppressive aura. He understood her personality well enough to know that unless age was mentioned, there was no real danger. Though she looked imposing, he was entirely at ease. Diana narrowed her eyes and subtly intensified her pressure, but it had no effect. Shia shrugged. ¡°It¡¯s just exploiting the demons¡¯ weaknesses,¡± he said casually, as though the Legendary trial was no big deal. ¡°Hm?¡± Diana¡¯s eyes narrowed further. ¡°The difficulty of the freshman trials is determined by the purity of the demons¡¯ bloodlines. That¡¯s not wrong¡ªpurer bloodlines generally mean greater potential and strength. But if you exploit that flaw, clearing the trial becomes straightforward. Is it so hard to believe someone like me, who excels in forging, exists among the academy¡¯s recruits?¡± Shia spoke with a calm demeanor, even managing a faint smile. Diana quickly grasped the implications of his words. ¡°You incorporated anti-demon properties into your forged weapons?¡± Shia responded with a bashful smile, neither confirming nor denying her deduction. Diana, however, seemed to have figured it out. Her gaze toward Shia now carried a hint of admiration. ''Well, well, this little guy is quite clever.'' Having resolved her doubts, the tension dissipated, and the atmosphere became amicable. The forest¡¯s tranquility returned, the rustling leaves and gentle breeze creating a serene backdrop. Diana¡¯s enchanting face broke into a mischievous smile. ¡°Were you scared just now?¡± ¡°Not at all,¡± Shia replied bluntly, his honesty unwavering. His straightforwardness only seemed to irk Diana, who pouted with teary eyes. ''Did I not come across as intimidating enough?'' Why wasn¡¯t he scared of her? Any normal person would have been trembling in front of such an unpredictable and powerful figure. She wasn¡¯t fooled into thinking he was faking it¡ªshe could tell his honesty was genuine. Despite her efforts, she hadn¡¯t detected even a trace of fear in his expression. ¡°Can¡¯t you at least pretend to be scared?¡± Shia took a small step back, a bead of sweat forming on his forehead. ¡°That¡¯s the most unreasonable request I¡¯ve ever heard.¡± Diana wasn¡¯t ready to give up. She circled around and clung to his arm, looking up at him with wide, pleading eyes. ¡°I¡¯m the principal, you know!¡± ¡°I know.¡± ¡°Aren¡¯t you scared of me?¡± ¡°No.¡± ¡°Wasn¡¯t I scary just now?¡± ¡°A little.¡± ¡°Then why weren¡¯t you afraid?¡± Shia: ¡°¡¡± After a moment of deliberation, Shia¡ªwell aware of Diana¡¯s peculiarities¡ªhad to admit to himself that he really wasn¡¯t scared. ¡°Be scared, won¡¯t you? Otherwise, I¡¯ll feel really embarrassed!¡± Diana hugged Shia¡¯s arm tightly, pouting like a child. The imposing principal, begging a student to be scared of her¡ªit was an utterly surreal sight. Though the scene was visually captivating, it carried an undeniable awkwardness. Her dignity as principal seemed to crumble completely. Far from the image of authority, she looked more like a playful big sister. Of course, a much larger and more important big sister. Her massive chest pressed against Shia¡¯s arm, enveloping it completely with an overwhelming softness. Shia tried to pull his arm away but failed. Resigned, he stopped struggling. Being smothered wasn¡¯t the worst feeling¡ªit was just a bit tight and slightly uncomfortable. With a blank expression, Shia looked less like someone being cajoled and more like a helpless boy being teased by an overbearing older sister. Chapter 26: The Principals Lifetime Shame and "Artistic Photos" Chapter 26: The Principal''s Lifetime Shame and "Artistic Photos" Though the scene looked slightly absurd, Diana¡¯s behavior was unmistakably coquettish. Her soft, magnetic voice elongated at the end, tinged with a hint of a whine. Anyone else would have been utterly captivated, nodding along in a daze. But Shia¡¯s response was anything but ordinary¡ªhe raised his hand and gave her a firm slap. ¡°Smack!¡± The crisp sound echoed sharply in the silent forest. ¡°Principal, kindly maintain some decorum.¡± A tingling sensation spread through Diana¡¯s chest as she froze momentarily, her expression a mix of disbelief and astonishment. She glanced down, watching as ripples spread across her ample figure. Who slaps ''there'' of all places?! The atmosphere grew eerily quiet, laden with an awkward tension. Diana lifted her gaze, her expression indescribable. ''You call this maintaining decorum? Who in their right mind slaps someone there for that reason?'' Shia¡¯s audacity was beyond words. Yet, instead of getting angry, Diana found herself more intrigued. As the principal, she was accustomed to unquestioned authority. Students and teachers alike treated her with the utmost reverence. This was the first time someone had dared to treat her so brazenly. How bold! Naturally, she decided to forgive him. Diana¡¯s reaction was exactly what Shia had anticipated. This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it For someone as unique and unpredictable as her, the conventional approach wouldn¡¯t work. ¡°You¡¯re honest, and honesty is a virtue. It deserves a reward,¡± Diana said with a serious expression that quickly turned sultry. Her magnetic voice took on a lazy, teasing quality as she adjusted her posture, accentuating her already exaggerated curves. Her hips swayed like a serpent¡¯s as she unabashedly flaunted her charms. ¡°Tell me, what do you want? I can grant any wish,¡± she said, her gaze seductive, the fragrance around her intoxicating. Her allure was so potent that it could easily ensnare anyone¡¯s mind. But for Shia, this was hardly a concern. After enduring countless mental games from people like Lilith in his past lives, this level of seduction was child¡¯s play. And besides, his enchanted ring provided immunity to such effects. Feigning a dazed expression, Shia played along. His breathing grew heavier, and his gaze fixed on Diana with apparent longing. Seeing his reaction, Diana¡¯s smile grew more enticing. ¡°What do you desire? Hmm?¡± She stepped closer, the distance between them narrowing further. Her ample chest nearly smothered Shia as the scent of milk and flowers overwhelmed him. With a playful flick of her tone, Diana leaned in and exhaled softly against Shia¡¯s face. The intoxicating scent seemed to dissolve all rationality. ¡°If... if someone as stunning as you could kneel before me¡¡± Shia murmured, his voice barely audible, as if lost in his fantasies. His face bore a faint smile, his eyes filled with eager anticipation. Diana took an instinctive step back, genuinely surprised. ''Young people these days... such bold tastes!'' Still, she found it amusing. ¡°You like that, don¡¯t you?¡± she teased, raising an elegant brow. Shia lowered his head shyly, his smile tinged with bashfulness. Diana, smirking, slowly lowered herself to her knees. Her scarlet eyes remained fixed on Shia¡¯s face, her expression a mix of coy innocence and playful mischief. The elegant yet seductive movements accentuated her curves as she transitioned from towering over him to looking up at him. Her ample chest brushed against him as she descended, her long black hair cascading down her shoulders. Her alluring gaze held a trace of vulnerability, her posture seemingly inviting yet laden with deeper meaning. Shia, looking down at her, revealed a subtle but dangerous glint in his eyes¡ªa depth that seemed to hide dark secrets. Diana, pleased with her perceived dominance, maintained her graceful demeanor. Her soft hands lightly traced Shia¡¯s waist, as if genuinely preparing to "reward" him. However, a sudden "click-click-click" of a camera shutter broke the moment. Blinding flashes filled the air, causing Diana to instinctively shut her eyes. ¡°What¡ª?¡± By the time her vision returned, she saw Shia standing a short distance away, holding up a camera. ¡°Principal, how about I take some ¡®artistic photos¡¯ for you?¡± His voice was cheerful, laced with a teasing warmth. --- Later, Shia flipped through the photos on his camera, a satisfied smile on his face. He generously shared his "artwork" with Diana, showing her the results. Diana took a single glance at the images before locking her gaze onto Shia¡¯s face. The boy¡¯s smirk suggested he was thoroughly enjoying himself. ¡°Aren¡¯t you worried that such photos might tarnish the academy¡¯s reputation if they got out?¡± ¡°Oh, Principal, I was just trying to capture your beauty as a reward for myself. Why so dramatic?¡± Diana¡¯s tone was light, as if to suggest that Shia had overreacted by taking the photos as leverage. But Shia wasn¡¯t bluffing. Gently removing her hand from his shoulder, he said firmly, ¡°Principal, if you don¡¯t want these pictures to spread, please maintain your dignity in front of me.¡± His expression was so serious and sincere that Diana froze, utterly speechless. ''Wait, what?!'' She replayed his words in her mind. This boy wasn¡¯t using the photos to blackmail her into something indecent¡ªhe wanted her to act more properly? This was beyond comprehension. ''The principal¡¯s ultimate humiliation¡ªimmortalized in photos.'' Shia nodded earnestly, reinforcing his intentions. Indeed, he wasn¡¯t trying to seduce the principal. He simply wanted her to behave with decorum. Laughable. In his past life, he had tried pursuing Diana with more daring tactics, including secluded forest rendezvous. The results were predictably disastrous. This game wasn¡¯t designed to favor male protagonists. While Diana exuded seduction and maturity, her core was pure and untouched. Harboring inappropriate thoughts about a powerful, high-status figure like her was tantamount to suicide. The so-called "reward for honesty" was nothing more than bait in this twisted game world, hiding malice beneath its surface. Shia knew this better than anyone¡ªhis wisdom was paid for in blood and tears. Chapter 27: A big sister acting like this? Gross Chapter 27: A big sister acting like this? Gross The whole situation felt absurd to Diana. First, Shia had taken photos of her to use as leverage, then sternly warned her to act more dignified in his presence. For Diana, this was beyond comprehension. Normally, anyone would be thrilled at the prospect of receiving her ¡°reward¡± and would jump at the chance to ask for something outrageous. At least, that¡¯s how Shia had initially seemed to behave. But not only had he resisted her allure, he had also taken it further by threatening her with photos. Diana, the alluring and manipulative principal, had met someone immune to her charms. This only made Shia even more fascinating to her¡ªa fresh, novel challenge. Her gaze on Shia now carried the interest of someone inspecting a delightful new toy. Her amusement grew, along with her grudging admiration. But there was one thing she couldn¡¯t overlook¡ªthe fact that those photos could genuinely damage her reputation. Diana¡¯s eyes drifted to Shia¡¯s phone screen, where the image of her alluring, coquettish self was displayed. Even she had to admit that the sight of herself in the photo was captivating. While Diana wasn¡¯t overly concerned about such photos circulating, she knew that if they did, her authority and image within the academy would be completely destroyed. ''Occasional mischief is fun, but becoming the permanent source of everyone¡¯s amusement is not.'' Straightening her posture, Diana shifted her demeanor entirely. The seductive aura faded, replaced by the dignified presence of the academy principal. ¡°Ahem.¡± She clasped her hands behind her back.If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it. ¡°Do you realize who you¡¯re threatening? I¡¯m the principal of this academy. Do you understand the consequences of such behavior?¡± Shia¡¯s calm gaze met hers as his finger hovered dangerously close to the ¡°Send All¡± button on his phone. His expression said it all: ''Push me, and these photos go public.'' ¡°Wait, wait, don¡¯t do that!¡± Diana¡¯s confident tone crumbled, replaced by a pleading, syrupy voice. ¡°Come on, I was just teasing you! Don¡¯t send those out, okay?¡± ¡°I really know I was wrong~! Please, I¡¯m begging you, don¡¯t do this!¡± Her pitiful tone, paired with her over-the-top coquettish delivery, made Shia cringe. He shoved her hand off his shoulder and rolled his eyes. ¡°A big sister acting like this? Gross.¡± Sliding through the options on his phone, Shia made a show of playing back her voice. ¡°I really know I was wrong~! Please, I¡¯m begging you, don¡¯t do this!¡± The distorted electronic playback only made Diana¡¯s expression darker. Shia turned the screen toward her, grinning as he showed her the video he had recorded moments ago. Diana¡¯s face fell. She had thought Shia was simply bluffing with his threat to mass-send the photos. Instead, he¡¯d captured another damning piece of leverage. ¡°Stay dignified,¡± Shia said with a sweet smile. Now he had two aces up his sleeve: one was her flirtatious photo, and the other was a video of the mighty principal groveling in a cutesy, whiny voice. Diana¡¯s lips twitched, her frustration evident, but she couldn¡¯t deny the humor in the situation. Still, she put on a stern face and said, ¡°Can we talk seriously now?¡± Shia nodded, sliding his phone into his pocket. ¡°Alright, enough playing around,¡± Diana said, regaining her composure as the principal. ¡°While your method of clearing the trial was unconventional, using crafted equipment to specifically counter the boss¡¯s weaknesses was clever. Breaking a historical record is still a fact.¡± ¡°Come with me. It¡¯s time to claim your reward.¡± This time, their path led directly to the Divine Grace Clocktower. Instead of heading to the top, Diana stopped on the third floor, where sacred relics were housed. ¡°Pick one,¡± she said, pushing open the door and gesturing for Shia to enter. The casual tone of her offer contrasted starkly with the extravagant nature of the reward. Sacred relics were legendary artifacts, often crafted by gods themselves and ranked from F to S-grade. Each one carried immense power. The room was filled with shelves and walls lined with grids, each containing a unique relic. Swords, spears, shields, axes¡ªthere was no shortage of variety. The sheer opulence on display was enough to surpass even the treasuries of the most powerful nations. Shia showed no outward reaction, much to Diana¡¯s disappointment. She had hoped to see him awestruck, but given his resistance to her earlier charm, his calm demeanor wasn¡¯t surprising. Still, she couldn¡¯t help but tease him a little. ¡°While I said you can pick anything, there are some exceptions. For instance, this sword belonged to the Twilight Empress and contains boundless power. It¡¯s not something you can handle. Then there¡¯s¡ª¡± ¡°I¡¯ve made my choice,¡± Shia interrupted, cutting her off mid-sentence. Diana blinked, stunned. ''So fast?!'' She hadn¡¯t even finished explaining the relics he couldn¡¯t take, let alone started guiding him to the best options. ¡°Are you sure?¡± she asked, frowning as she watched him lift his chosen item. ¡°Yes.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t you want to look around a bit more? There are so many treasures here¡ªyou might miss something better.¡± ¡°Thank you for your concern, Principal, but I¡¯ve already decided.¡± Shia¡¯s tone was light, but his decision was firm. When Diana pressed him further, he simply smiled and said, ¡°The best choice is the one that suits you.¡± He explained that while the most prestigious relics might seem appealing, they could be burdensome if not compatible with his abilities. Choosing something appropriate would allow him to use it to its fullest potential without attracting undue attention. Diana shrugged, relenting. ¡°If you¡¯re that sure, then so be it.¡± Shia smiled, content with his choice, and said no more. Chapter 28: The Chaos Goddess—Love Me Again Chapter 28: The Chaos Goddess¡ªLove Me Again Shia was just about to step out of the room when Diana called after him. ¡°Shia, wait.¡± It was the first time Diana had called him by name instead of ¡°little one.¡± Shia turned to meet her deep, enigmatic gaze. ¡°There¡¯s something about you,¡± Diana said, her tone layered with meaning. ¡°A smell that¡¯s¡ oddly comforting.¡± Shia tilted his head slightly, feigning confusion. ¡°Maybe it¡¯s the body wash?¡± His humorous deflection steered the conversation away from the truth. Shia knew full well this was the subtle influence of the sealed Charm Ring. Its residual effect made others subconsciously drawn to him. Fortunately, the ring¡¯s power wasn¡¯t yet strong enough to fully captivate someone like Diana, who already had little interest in such things. Still, his response clearly amused her. Diana laughed, her posture relaxing as she leaned back, crossing her legs over the desk in front of her. Her voluptuous thighs, clad in sleek black stockings and high heels, instantly drew attention. The blend of mystery and mature allure was mesmerizing. Reclining comfortably on the sofa, her open neckline revealed a glimpse of alabaster skin. Even in such a casual pose, her figure remained nothing short of imposing. ¡°That¡¯s quite an amusing answer,¡± she said, her voice tinged with genuine delight. Shia responded with a bashful smile. ¡°I¡¯m looking forward to seeing what other surprises you¡¯ll bring me.¡± With that, Diana waved him off, her gestures both elegant and dismissive. Shia turned and left the Divine Grace Clocktower. Diana watched his silhouette disappear, her eyes glimmering with curiosity.This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. ''This little guy... he¡¯s truly interesting.'' --- Once outside, Shia let out a long breath, finally able to relax. He turned back to glance at the towering clocktower, feeling a sense of relief as though he had narrowly escaped danger. Though his earlier demeanor had been calm and confident, the entire encounter was riddled with hidden perils. Peril #1: The risk of death. One wrong move, and the seemingly harmless interaction with Diana could have spiraled into a ''bad end.'' For example, having someone like her kneel before him might seem like a reward¡ªbut only fools would think so. In this world, even if such miracles existed, they wouldn¡¯t be meant for him. Shia had tried before, and the result had been... messy. Peril #2: Winning her favor. Diana wasn¡¯t someone who could be easily pleased. Keeping her entertained required walking a fine line between mystery and charm. You couldn¡¯t be too direct, yet you also couldn¡¯t seem disinterested. It was a balancing act, and failing to meet her expectations would lead to indifference¡ªor worse, disdain. Shia knew all too well that her appearance at this stage in the storyline was unusual. According to the original game¡¯s progression, Diana wasn¡¯t supposed to show up until after the midterms. Her early involvement signaled a potential deviation from the established narrative. In the game, such deviations were rare but not impossible. In reality, there was no option to reload a save. Still, for now, Shia felt he had handled things well. He had raised his reputation without earning Diana¡¯s ire. Building a positive relationship with the Chaos Goddess was undoubtedly a wise investment. After all, her true identity wasn¡¯t as simple as it seemed. She was the academy¡¯s mediator, a critical force balancing the top factions and powers. Despite her playful demeanor, her role carried immense weight. But Shia, a ninth-tier player, knew her secret: Diana was a sealed Chaos Goddess. In the game, she existed as a neutral force¡ªa wild card in every sense of the word. Her one flaw? She had a habit of playing ¡°mom.¡± Shia shook his head, banishing unnecessary thoughts, and let a small smile creep onto his face. ''High risk comes with high rewards.'' --- The Rewards of His Efforts: 1. First Place among Freshmen. Though it sounded overly dramatic, this title was vital. It served as a gateway to interacting with key characters¡ªboth heroines and antagonists¡ªand unlocking hidden quests. The title also guaranteed access to the academy¡¯s best resources. At Seven Shields Academy, everything was distributed based on talent and ability, and as the top freshman, Shia would enjoy unparalleled privileges for the entire year. From meals to housing, he could afford to live without worry. His only goal now was to maximize this opportunity and grow stronger. 2. A New Home. Diana had promised him one of the academy¡¯s exclusive villas, a privilege afforded to only a select few. These villas housed the academy¡¯s elite¡ªhis future targets for alliances or conquests. Building relationships with them wasn¡¯t just about charm; it was key to survival. Conquering targets meant unlocking the full potential of his Charm Ring, which in turn increased his strength and chances of survival. Plus, having a spacious residence would allow him to accommodate more allies in the future. 3. A Sacred Relic. The relic he had chosen¡ªa blank card album¡ªwas deceptively simple but held immense potential. As a transitional weapon, it was the perfect tool for him before reaching his final class transformation. --- Shia hummed a cheerful tune as he tucked the album into his bag and strolled back toward the dorms. His familiarity with the campus map made his movements efficient and precise¡ªunusual for a freshman. But his casual walk came to a halt when a pair of white silk boots entered his line of sight. The boots clung tightly to slender legs wrapped in silky white stockings, radiating a warm yet dignified aura. The pristine fabric accentuated the fullness of her thighs, giving them a soft and enticing appearance. The boots rose past her knees, adding an air of elegance and nobility. Shia¡¯s gaze traveled upward, past her slim waist and the silver hair that swayed gently in the breeze. The figure before him radiated a cold, regal beauty. Even standing still, she commanded attention¡ªa magnetic presence that made her the center of any crowd. Shia¡¯s brows furrowed. ''So, she came after all.'' Raising his eyes, he met hers. The silver-haired princess stood bathed in the golden light of sunset, her exquisite face cool and detached. Even the warm hues of the setting sun couldn¡¯t soften her icy demeanor. Her noble aura exuded elegance, inspiring both awe and reverence. She stared directly at Shia, her gaze unwavering and her intent unmistakable. The White-Silk Princess had come to block his path. Anyone else might have felt honored to be approached by her. But Shia? He only felt annoyed. Chapter 29: A Single Sentence to Shut Down the Little Princess Chapter 29: A Single Sentence to Shut Down the Little Princess It¡¯s here. The plot advances with an unapologetic swagger. Shia wasn¡¯t particularly interested in this aloof princess in white stockings, but fate was bringing Violet¡¯s first major plot point right to his doorstep. There were two ways to interact with this princess: The first was to approach her after the enrollment arc, shamelessly trying to win her favor. However, without status, resources, or connections, the effort would hardly yield significant results. The real chance to impress her would come during the midterm exams. By achieving top academic results, you¡¯d make her reevaluate you, unlocking the subsequent storyline. The second way, which was the current situation, involved taking her freshman top rank, forcing her to approach you herself. With Violet''s immense pride, there was no way she would tolerate not being at the top. Naturally, she would feel dissatisfaction, confusion, and perhaps even curiosity about the person who took her spot. Either way, you¡¯d grab her attention. But for Shia, neither path was ideal¡ªand this second scenario was already unfolding. A tall, imposing woman stood before Shia, her long boots elevating her height to nearly 1.7 meters. Her curvaceous figure, with its perfect golden proportions, exuded a model-like allure. Not a single inch of her body was out of place¡ªevery curve was a masterpiece. Her white-stocking-clad legs added a soft, almost lush appeal to her otherwise pure and elegant look. Her only flaw? That arrogant expression. Even from a vantage point where she was technically looking up at him, her condescending demeanor gave off the impression she was staring down at him from above. Violet scrutinized the young man before her, her eyes flashing with unconcealed resentment. How could she have lost to someone like this? Violet wasn¡¯t one to mince words. She got straight to the point. ¡°Shia, male, eighteen years old¡¡± In such a short time, Violet had thoroughly investigated Shia¡¯s identity, background, and abilities.This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there. But the more she learned, the stronger her dissatisfaction grew. A mere commoner with no aptitude or combat skills¡ªhow could he have cleared a legendary-level dungeon so quickly? There was only one explanation: cheating. In other words, he had stolen the glory that rightfully belonged to her. For Violet, this was unacceptable. After reciting Shia¡¯s information, Violet issued her challenge¡ªor more accurately, her demand. ¡°I expect you to voluntarily give up the title of top rank and nullify your previous results. If you don¡¯t, I¡¯ll report you for cheating. Once the academy conducts a thorough investigation, you might not even retain your student qualifications.¡± As she spoke, Violet tilted her exquisitely shaped chin even higher. Her noble royal aura radiated an oppressive force that instinctively made others feel fear, reverence, and submission. But it didn¡¯t work on Shia. Seriously? Losing in a fair competition, so she resorts to dirty tricks outside the field? This little princess really was insufferable. This was exactly why Shia disliked female leads like her. He examined the silver-haired beauty in front of him. To be fair, she was stunning, with an exceptional figure and those enticing white stockings. But her personality? Absolutely unbearable. No matter how much her character might improve later, she was undeniably despicable at the start. Fortunately, there was a way to deal with people like her. Here¡¯s the secret to shutting down an arrogant little princess in a single sentence: ¡°Do you think the academy headmaster is stupid, or are you just that smart?¡± One sentence. It wasn¡¯t even a taunt. Shia¡¯s expression didn¡¯t change in the slightest. To him, Violet¡¯s questioning and imposing demeanor was nothing more than a passing breeze¡ªnot even worth a flicker of emotion. The simple question left Violet speechless. She had assumed that, given Shia¡¯s abilities, it was impossible for him to break records in a legendary-level dungeon. She hadn¡¯t considered this angle. The academy headmaster had personally met Shia. If there had been any foul play, how could the headmaster have failed to notice? While Violet was confident in herself, she wasn¡¯t so conceited as to think she was smarter than the headmaster of the Seven Shields Academy. Could it be that Shia really had cleared the dungeon through his own abilities? That didn¡¯t make sense either. The investigation clearly showed that he was an ordinary person with no cultivation talent and zero combat ability. Someone like that wouldn¡¯t even survive an easy-level dungeon, let alone clear a legendary-level one. And not just clear it¡ªhe¡¯d shattered records, finishing several times faster than her. There had to be some missing piece of the puzzle that she couldn¡¯t figure out, leaving her completely baffled. For a moment, Violet stood frozen, unsure how to proceed. She couldn¡¯t believe Shia had genuinely achieved this feat, but she also couldn¡¯t explain why the headmaster hadn¡¯t found any issues. This was the trouble with Violet¡¯s royal arrogance. She couldn¡¯t let go of her so-called dignity but still wanted everything to go her way. You can¡¯t have your cake and eat it too. That¡¯s something even teenagers understand. Wanting it all? Are you a child? Sure, both Violet and the succubus princess Rong had their quirks. But Rong¡¯s awkwardness stemmed from her inferiority complex and social anxiety¡ªshe avoided interacting with others out of shyness. Aside from her mild social anxiety, Rong held no prejudices against people or the world around her. She simply didn¡¯t want to engage with it. Violet, on the other hand, was steeped in royal pride. Her arrogance was ingrained, creating a distorted worldview. She genuinely believed commoners were inherently inferior to her, clinging to her biases and refusing to adapt. This attitude shaped her future. No matter how hard she worked, Violet could never connect with the people or win their hearts. Deep down, she believed she was above everyone else. She saw herself as exceptional, deserving of the spotlight¡ªeven when she disliked it¡ªbecause she couldn¡¯t accept others taking center stage. If she were just a typical royal princess, living her life with this attitude would¡¯ve been fine. But she wanted the loyalty of her people. Yet, she couldn¡¯t empathize with ordinary citizens or understand their needs. This led to a grim outcome: her kingdom crumbling and the person she cherished¡ Of course, that¡¯s the fallen route. In the game¡¯s original storyline, with Lilith¡ªthe classic protagonist¡ªaround, such tragedies wouldn¡¯t happen. Saving a few suffering heroines is essential to showcasing the protagonist¡¯s greatness and expanding her harem, isn¡¯t it? Still, this princess in white stockings was one of the few characters with a fallen route. Whether she falls or not, the difference is merely in her role as either Lilith¡¯s pet or her girlfriend. Chapter 30: The Pinnacle of Trashy Behavior, the Wicked Woman Ups Her Game Chapter 30: The Pinnacle of Trashy Behavior, the Wicked Woman Ups Her Game "Move aside. If there¡¯s nothing else, I¡¯m leaving." Shia didn¡¯t care if you were a princess or someone¡¯s granddaughter¡ªbefore him, you were just another person. Different social standings merely represented different starting points; life itself was equal. He had no intention of catering to Violet''s emotions, especially when it was someone he didn¡¯t particularly care for. Faced with Shia¡¯s cold indifference, Violet involuntarily took a step back. For the first time, she felt a sense of oppression emanating from this commoner boy. How was that even possible? She was royalty, the noble Princess of Silver Moon, while he was just a commoner. How could someone like her feel oppressed by someone like him? And worse, she had retreated before him. It was as if a loud slap had landed squarely on her face. Biting her lip, Violet felt humiliated. But Shia remained unmoved. ''You clearly had a thousand better ways to deal with me, yet you chose the worst one.'' ''If that¡¯s the case, why should I indulge you?'' As the tense atmosphere lingered, a new person appeared to break the stalemate. Lilith felt it was necessary to check up on her little sheep of a knight, worried he might lose his way in this enormous Seven Shields Academy. And what if he wandered into some other woman¡¯s bed? That would be a disaster. After all, she had nurtured him for years. Even a stray cat or dog would develop feelings over time. But when she arrived at the scene, Lilith¡¯s gaze was immediately drawn to Violet. Her silver hair was cool and noble, her supermodel figure oozed elegance, and those white stockings! That icy treat! ''I want to lick them.'' While Lilith walked toward Shia, her eyes remained fixed on Violet''s legs. She imagined holding those thigh-high boots in her hands or even having them press down on her face.Stolen story; please report. Her excitement nearly caused her to faint as a flood of R-rated scenarios flooded her mind. Of course, fantasies were one thing. No matter how much of a degenerate Lilith was inside, she knew how to act outwardly. Years of grooming had made her the picture of a reliable upperclassman. Lilith folded her hands neatly at her abdomen, stepped back with her right foot into a graceful T-stance, and slightly inclined her head while bending her knees. Dressed in a golden-haired red dress, she moved with the elegance of an aristocratic young lady, her every gesture embodying the refined etiquette of an ancient noble family. This was the greeting style of the Guen family ladies, distinct from other noble daughters. "Greetings, junior," she said. Compared to Shia¡¯s lack of manners, the behavior of this senior immediately revealed her good upbringing. Naturally, Violet found her hard to dislike. Violet instantly recognized the noble etiquette of the Guen family. Her gaze swept over Lilith, taking in her silk red dress, poised demeanor, striking features, and warm, sunny temperament. She remembered hearing about a certain Guen family heiress currently attending Seven Shields Academy. This must be her. Assessing Lilith¡¯s background and demeanor, Violet mentally stamped her as "one of us." After that, she became much more polite. "Greetings, senior." Her fair hands clasped together in front of her as she slightly bent her knees, legs together, though she did not lower her head. This was the etiquette of the Silver Moon Royal Family toward noble ladies. A princess would only bow her head to royalty from another kingdom. Lilith stepped forward and enthusiastically took Violet¡¯s soft, fair hands in her own. Her hands were smooth and delicate, as soft as jade, almost addictive to touch. As Lilith discreetly caressed her hands, her face remained composed, radiating the maturity and grace of a senior. ''So soft.'' Lilith narrowed her eyes in satisfaction but betrayed nothing on her face as she introduced herself. "I¡¯m Lilith, eldest daughter of the Guen family and also your senior. Please feel free to call me Lilith." "Senior Lilith," Violet replied smoothly. "This here is my childhood friend, Shia. Do you know each other?" Lilith asked, glancing at Shia. Violet didn¡¯t respond, only forcing an awkward smile. As a princess, it wouldn¡¯t do her royal dignity any good to outright complain about a commoner, especially one who was her senior¡¯s childhood friend. Still, her displeased expression made it clear that something had happened between them. Lilith wasn¡¯t blind. "Did he offend you?" she pressed. Violet remained silent. But Lilith was already convinced of her assumption. Without bothering to understand the context or reasons behind their conflict, she immediately barked an order at Shia. "Apologize to this junior right now!" Facing Shia, Lilith''s demeanor was completely different. Her expression was impatient, and her clear, pleasant voice turned sharp and demanding. As for figuring out what had actually happened or who was at fault, that wasn¡¯t part of Lilith¡¯s thought process. With her little sheep, she always had the same approach: force Shia to bow his head and apologize first, then deal with everything else¡ªlike building a rapport with Violet. The difference between her respectful kindness toward Violet and her dismissive annoyance toward Shia couldn¡¯t have been starker. Lilith was the pinnacle of being trashy. To call her garbage was an insult to garbage. If this were a game, the only choices would be "apologize" or "bow down," offering no path to fairness. Never mind that Violet was the one who had blocked his path first and made arrogant assumptions later¡ªwhy should he have to apologize? But that¡¯s how game developers are: they don¡¯t care about fairness, only about raising your blood pressure. This, however, was reality. Shia was a living, breathing person with autonomy and the ability to make his own decisions. And so, Shia decisively chose to ignore them. It was as if he hadn¡¯t heard a word. ''You want me to, huh? Over my dead body.'' One second passed. Then two. Then three. The air was deathly silent. Shia said nothing, simply standing there, silently staring at the two girls blocking his way. One was his nominal fianc¨¦e and a trashy woman to boot. The other was a self-important princess. Both of them annoyed him equally. Apologize? Why? He hadn¡¯t done anything wrong. Why should he lower his head? Naturally, Shia chose to ignore it all. Lilith had been waiting for Shia to apologize so she could use the opportunity to strike up a conversation with her new junior. Who would¡¯ve thought that her usually obedient little sheep would outright defy her orders now? Feeling embarrassed, Lilith grew furious, her gaze sharpening. "Shia Ya, you¡¯re a grown man, and you¡¯re arguing with a girl? Have you forgotten the chivalry code I taught you!?¡± In the past, to entice Shia into working for her, Lilith always addressed him affectionately as ¡°Shia,¡± or even ¡°darling.¡± Calling him by his full name was a rare occurrence. ''Oh, so now she¡¯s buffing herself?'' ''Moral manipulation in progress'' Chapter 31: What to Do When Your Simp Stops Listening Chapter 31: What to Do When Your Simp Stops Listening ¡°Oh,¡± Shia responded flatly, his face devoid of emotion. Then, he turned around, walked past the two annoying, trashy women blocking his way, and left without even a backward glance. Not just ignoring their dignity¡ªcompletely trampling it. Lilith stood there trembling with rage, her fists clenched, her body quivering slightly as tears began to well up in her eyes. The warm, sunny aura she usually exuded faded, replaced by a pitiful, heartbroken demeanor. "If you walk away now, don¡¯t ever come back!" she shouted, her voice filled with sorrow and despair, like someone betrayed by a loved one. Hidden in her despair was a sliver of hope¡ªa final plea for the one she cherished to turn back. Wasn¡¯t it touching? The heartbroken fianc¨¦e issuing a last desperate ultimatum, hoping her lover would return and bring harmony to their lives. But Shia didn¡¯t stop, not even for a second. He walked away as if he hadn¡¯t heard her. He had heard her. He just didn¡¯t care. He dared to walk away. And so he did. Not coming back? Fine. Someone else could put up with this nonsense, but it sure wouldn¡¯t be him. Being ignored twice in a row¡ªLilith¡¯s humiliation was palpable. Worse yet, it happened in front of her elegant, white-stocking-clad junior, making her look utterly abandoned. As Shia¡¯s figure faded from view, not once stopping or turning back, Lilith felt utterly crushed. ''A critical blow!'' Lilith was seething. What to do when your simp stops listening? Frustration bubbled within her. But for now, she had to push aside the task of disciplining Shia. The priority was to maintain her rapport with Violet. With forced composure, Lilith solemnly promised Violet, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, junior. I¡¯ll make sure he apologizes to you another day!¡± Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit. ¡°There¡¯s no need for that¡¡± Violet replied, her tone reserved. Being startled by a commoner earlier had been a bit humiliating, but Lilith¡¯s intervention had already eased the tension considerably. Demanding an apology seemed excessive, especially when Lilith couldn¡¯t even control her own fianc¨¦. However, Lilith was insistent. ¡°No, no, it¡¯s necessary. After all, he¡¯s my fianc¨¦, and it¡¯s my responsibility if he caused you any distress. I feel deeply guilty about this.¡± Violet opened her mouth but ultimately said nothing. Lilith, sensing doubt, quickly added, ¡°If Shia ever does anything wrong again, you¡¯re welcome to discipline him yourself. Don¡¯t feel like you need to spare me any face!¡± Violet blinked, surprised by Lilith¡¯s casual suggestion. ''Is he really your fianc¨¦?'' ''Or is he your enemy?'' Sure, Shia was just a commoner. But with a noble fianc¨¦e like Lilith, one would expect him to carry some level of respectability. Instead, Lilith was practically offering him up for Violet to bully. Lilith¡¯s suggestion was baffling, especially considering that Shia lacked any real talent for cultivation. Sure, there were rumors about how he¡¯d somehow cleared a legendary dungeon, but against someone of Violet¡¯s genuine skill, he¡¯d be utterly helpless. ''Discipline him however I like? Is this really his fianc¨¦e speaking?'' Though confused, Violet politely thanked Lilith, and the two of them quickly built a warm camaraderie. Once she had successfully smoothed things over with Violet, Lilith didn¡¯t hesitate to set off to bring Shia back home. Even though he had embarrassed her earlier. Even though Shia¡¯s familiarity with the academy made it unlikely for him to get lost. Of course, it wasn¡¯t because Shia was now the top-ranking freshman, summoned by the academy headmaster, and had suddenly become far more valuable. No, no, Lilith insisted to herself that it was purely out of affection. ''He¡¯s my childhood friend, after all. What if he ends up homeless? I couldn¡¯t possibly let him sink to such depths~!'' Lilith thoroughly convinced herself of her own benevolence, moved to the point of near tears. She imagined Shia being equally grateful, overflowing with appreciation for her kindness. Despite having offended her new junior and making her lose face in front of Violet, she still extended her boundless generosity and kindness, all for the sake of their childhood bond. ''What a saint she was!'' But that was just her self-delusion. In reality, her true goal was to gather intel. She needed to figure out what kind of relationship Shia and Violet had. Why had Violet sought him out? What did she want from him? Lilith thought she had hidden her intentions well, but Shia, knowing the ¡°plot,¡± had already seen through her schemes. Watching this golden-haired young lady fawning over him with her syrupy words, Shia could only see her as a golden retriever, wagging its tail¡ªnot out of loyalty, but to manipulate him and bend him to her will. ''Oh, how satisfying it would be to see this golden retriever broken and lying at my feet one day, a collar around her neck!'' At the moment, Lilith was busy justifying her earlier behavior. ¡°I wasn¡¯t really siding with an outsider to bully you~! I just think that a real man should know when to endure. She¡¯s a princess, after all, and getting into a conflict with her could hurt your academic future!¡± ¡°Why provoke her in the first place? She¡¯s a girl and comes from a noble background. Wouldn¡¯t stepping back temporarily be worth it for a few years of peace?¡± ¡°As your fianc¨¦e, I only tried to leave a good impression on her so she¡¯d think better of you, too. Isn¡¯t that reasonable?¡± Lilith¡¯s tone was full of sincerity, as if everything she did had been for Shia¡¯s benefit. If he didn¡¯t know better, Shia might¡¯ve actually believed her. According to the game¡¯s script, this ¡°sincere and devoted¡± childhood friend would soon suggest that Shia approach Violet, trying to win her favor and get closer to her. She¡¯d even offer advice and strategies from behind the scenes to help him improve his relationship with Violet. You¡¯d think she was selflessly helping him, a virtuous fianc¨¦e who graciously accepted another woman into the fold. In reality, only a first-time player would fall for such naivety. Lilith? Kind-hearted? Ha! The truth was far more sinister. She wasn¡¯t helping; she was laying a trap. After Shia had built enough rapport with Violet, Lilith would have a heart-to-heart drunken conversation with the princess. And then? The first adult-rated CG scene in the game would unlock. You¡¯d think it was a story about three people. Wrong. The person left out entirely was the poor sap¡ªShia. Who¡¯d understand the pain? My childhood friend helped me court another woman, only to drunkenly steal her away while I waited outside the door. ''Pain. Just pain. But don¡¯t worry¡ªthis little sheep never cries!'' Chapter 32: What the Hell?! Even This Bastard Dares to Make Demands!? Chapter 32: What the Hell?! Even This Bastard Dares to Make Demands!? At this moment, just as in the story''s plot, Lilith was persuading Shia to get closer to the princess, Violet. "She''s a princess¡ªher status and connections are far beyond what you can imagine. Building a good relationship with her is only beneficial to you." Lilith spared no effort in her persuasion, as if she were entirely thinking about Shia''s best interests. But Shia flatly refused. "I don''t want to." "You¡" However, Shia interrupted Lilith''s impending rebuttal with a change of tone. "A princess? She''s just from a marginal, insignificant kingdom." "I''m your fianc¨¦. If she offends me, it''s equivalent to offending you. That means she disrespects our family." "If she''s daring enough to do that, then she must face punishment and be thoroughly trampled underfoot!" This left Lilith flustered. "How could you even think of doing something so harsh to such a beautiful girl¡?" ''Are you even human!?'' But she swallowed the second half of her sentence. Soft tactics were necessary; otherwise, upsetting this prime tool of hers would do her no good. She had to coax him and stroke his ego. "And then?" Shia crossed his arms, long legs propped on the coffee table, and leaned back leisurely as he watched Lilith. Lilith forced a smile. "I''m only thinking about your future. She''s still a princess, incredibly talented. Even in the academy, many admire her." "Building a good rapport with her will help your academic career later on. As for me, enduring a bit of disdain or being looked down on¡ªit¡¯s nothing, right?" Shia wasn¡¯t buying it. "Really? You want me to approach her that badly?" Lilith was about to argue when Shia turned the tables and began to manipulate her instead.If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. "Actually, I might consider agreeing to your request." Lilith forgot what she was about to say and looked at Shia with sparkling eyes. Shia stood up, leaning closer. "But what kind of support can you offer me?" At this moment, while Shia¡¯s legs were still resting on the coffee table, his upper body leaned forward toward the blonde lady seated next to him. Lilith was dumbfounded. ''What the hell, even this damn bastard dares to make demands now?!'' ''You weren''t like this before!'' Shia smiled confidently, showing no intention of taking back his words. "I walked for so long today¡ªparticipating in the freshman qualification tournament, then meeting with the headmaster. My legs are so sore." Lilith clenched her little fists, biting her lip. She looked at Shia¡¯s expectant expression, clearly implying he wanted someone to massage his legs. She¡ ''For the sake of the girl, I can endure this!'' Lilith¡¯s face broke into a radiant smile. "I¡¯ll help you." Her delicate body slowly slid down from the couch, kneeling gracefully in front of Shia. Her black stockings stretched thin over her knees as she crouched, becoming almost transparent and revealing a hint of fair skin underneath. Her knees parted slightly, and the stockings darkened further toward her thighs, exuding an air of mysterious allure. Her hips rested lightly against her heels, and even in this position, her long, slender legs remained strikingly beautiful. Lilith placed her smooth hands on Shia¡¯s legs, forming tiny fists as she lightly massaged. For Lilith, a noble young lady, this was the first time she had ever done something so servile. Yet Shia still had the nerve to complain. "Are you weak or what? That¡¯s all the strength you¡¯ve got? Even an ant scratches better than this." Lilith: "..." ''For the girl, I must endure!'' Her smile stiffened slightly. Her small fists began to pound harder on Shia¡¯s legs. "Not so hard! What are you trying to do, make my legs even sorer?" Lilith gritted her teeth but lightened her efforts. "Too light. Just a little bit harder¡ªthere, that¡¯s the right pressure." "Ah, much better. My legs feel so much more relaxed now, and my mood¡¯s improved too." Lilith ground her teeth. ''This bastard is impossible to please!'' "Although the pressure is good now, are you only going to focus on one spot?" Shia¡¯s face was full of dissatisfaction. "Try hitting another area." "Yeah, that¡¯s it¡ªspend a little more time there." "Can¡¯t you feel how tense my muscles are? Put a bit more effort here." "Don¡¯t press so hard in this spot¡" What should have been a simple massage turned into an endless stream of demands as Shia went for maximum interaction. Several times, Lilith was tempted to quit. ''What kind of person is this, so hard to please?!'' She was a proud young lady of the Guen family. When had she ever served anyone like this? And yet here he was, picking on her work with constant criticism and countless demands. ''So infuriating!'' But then she thought of Violet¡¯s silky white thighs and held her temper. ''Fine, I¡¯ve come this far¡ªif I give up now, all my earlier sacrifices would be wasted!'' ''For the girl, I¡¯ll endure once more!'' Shia gazed down at Lilith¡¯s reluctantly obedient expression. Though her face was filled with resentment, her body cooperated perfectly, acting meek and gentle. He felt an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. ''If only I could unlock the next level¡ªmilk-drinking!'' Shia mused to himself. At that moment, the door was suddenly pushed open. Tia had come looking for Lilith and naturally opened the ajar door. The white-haired maid stood in the doorway, her gaze immediately locking onto Lilith¡¯s back. Her infatuation with Lilith was so intense that she could recognize the young lady from just a glimpse¡ªeven her socks. But what was her goddess-like young lady, her revered and noble mistress, doing kneeling in front of this loser? What was going on!? Tia froze, as if struck by lightning, her purpose for seeking Lilith entirely forgotten. Her tall, white-haired figure wavered slightly, her mind blank except for the image of Lilith kneeling before Shia. "Excuse me," Tia muttered, her voice so faint it was barely audible. Her eyes lost all their light. Her beloved young lady¡ how could this be? It was as if her divine idol had shattered; her faith had crumbled. Tia felt as though the entire world had betrayed her in that instant. Her heart broke. Lilith, hearing the sound, turned her head toward the door. Their eyes met, and Lilith¡¯s face appeared completely normal¡ªno bruises, no swelling. Aside from a slight blush that hinted at frustration, everything looked fine. Tia¡¯s gaze drifted downward to Lilith¡¯s hands. Her slender, delicate hands were half-formed into fists, resting lightly on Shia¡¯s legs. Due to the turning motion, Lilith¡¯s generous chest brushed against Shia¡¯s leg, adding an air of intimacy. Tia finally realized the truth. ''Oh, it¡¯s just a massage?'' Though the close proximity still upset her, it was far better than her earlier assumption. ''At least she¡¯s not drinking milk.'' If her earlier guess had been correct¡ Tia couldn¡¯t even imagine what she would do if her cherished young lady had stooped to such a level. That was her goddess, her idol. How could she be serving such a pathetic, talentless loser? ''It¡¯s not that bad. It¡¯s not that bad.'' Tia let out a small sigh of relief, her tense body relaxing. Chapter 33: My Lady Wants Me to Seduce Her Fiancé? Chapter 33: My Lady Wants Me to Seduce Her Fianc¨¦? Being caught by her maid while serving someone else¡ªLilith couldn''t help but feel a little flustered and embarrassed. Her noble status as a young lady felt momentarily diminished. It was¡ a bit humiliating. She had only turned her head reflexively upon hearing the noise behind her. Though her cheeks showed a faint blush, she quickly composed herself, straightening her posture to regain the elegance and poise of a proper young lady. With a fist lightly pressed to her lips, she coughed twice, feeling slightly awkward. "Ahem. This freshman qualification tournament¡ªShia achieved the goal perfectly. This is merely a reward. I am, after all, someone who rewards and punishes fairly." Tia listened to Lilith''s explanation and nodded in agreement, though inwardly she let out a sigh of relief. As for whether she truly believed it¡ªwell, only she knew. At the very least, there was now a plausible reason to believe that what she had initially suspected wasn¡¯t true. Sure, it was shocking for the young lady to massage a loser like Shia, but it was still better than¡ ''that''. With an acceptable excuse found, the incident seemed resolved. Shia had also agreed to Lilith¡¯s request. However, Lilith¡¯s sense of unease only deepened. She could keenly feel that Shia was slipping out of her control. This was a troubling development. It was time to move on to the second phase of training. So, Lilith discreetly called Tia to a secluded area where no one else was around. With her flawless face stern, her sharp eyes bore into Tia¡¯s as if trying to see straight into her soul. Initially, Tia was confused about being brought aside, but the prolonged eye contact left her increasingly anxious. Why was the young lady looking at her like that?This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. Could it be¡ had the young lady learned about how that scoundrel had bullied her? A third-stage cultivator, yet she had been defeated by a worthless loser. Even Tia herself was too ashamed to speak of it. Was she about to be dismissed? Tia''s heart pounded furiously. In her nervousness, her lips trembled slightly. "Young lady, I¡ I didn¡¯t mean to¡ª" She was just about to explain that she had been forced when Lilith¡¯s puzzled gaze stopped her mid-sentence. What was Tia talking about? Lilith had only called her over for a favor. "You mean what you saw earlier?" Lilith assumed she understood and patted Tia on the shoulder. The unexpected gesture made the already-tense Tia almost collapse to the ground. Lilith looked at the white-haired maid struggling to steady herself, then at her own hand in disbelief. Did she really use that much force? But Tia had already regained her balance. "So, what do you need me for, young lady?" "I have something I need your help with." Tia blinked in confusion. "Help? From me?" How could she possibly help the young lady? If it was something Lilith requested, she would give her all to accomplish it¡ªdid she really need to ask? Lilith¡¯s face lit up with a dazzling smile. She explained her plan: hosting a celebration banquet that night to congratulate Shia on his achievement in the freshman qualification tournament. The goal was to get Shia drunk during the event. And during this process, Lilith hoped Tia could¡ sacrifice a bit of her allure. Tia¡¯s jaw dropped as she heard Lilith¡¯s plan. "You want me to seduce that loser?!" Her voice rose in shock, almost uncontrollably. Lilith''s expression flashed with panic. She quickly stepped closer, closing the distance between them, and pressed a finger to her lips, signaling for Tia to keep her voice down. A scheme like this couldn¡¯t afford to be overheard. After ensuring no one else had noticed, Lilith lowered her voice and began to persuade her maid. "Don¡¯t put it so harshly. I just want to test his loyalty to me." Lilith¡¯s tone was serious, earnestly reassuring her maid. "Don¡¯t you trust me? He wouldn¡¯t dare act recklessly." On this point, Lilith was supremely confident. This was a dog she had trained for years¡ªhow could he possibly lay a finger on another woman? "Then¡" Lilith glanced cautiously around and beckoned Tia to lean closer. Though shocked by Lilith¡¯s plan, Tia leaned in obediently. "I just want to take a few pictures. Lately, he¡¯s been disobedient, so it¡¯s time to remind him who¡¯s in charge." In truth, Lilith wanted to gather evidence of Shia making a mistake so she could maintain control over him. Hearing this explanation, Tia bit her lip, her lashes lowering as she struggled with the decision. She really didn¡¯t want to go through with it. Having already suffered humiliation at the hands of that loser, she now had to seduce him? Still, it was a request from her young lady. And besides, wasn¡¯t this also an opportunity for revenge? If she could catch him doing something wrong, she wouldn¡¯t have to be so passive around him anymore. After much internal conflict, Tia finally agreed, swayed by Lilith¡¯s expectant gaze. With their own hidden motives, the two women struck an agreement and set about preparing a celebration banquet for Shia that very evening. What appeared to be a relaxed and joyous party was, in reality, fraught with sinister schemes. At the banquet, both Lilith and Tia were dressed to impress, having taken great care with their appearances. Lilith, the golden-haired, long-legged young lady, wore a fiery red backless evening gown. Thin straps accentuated the deep V-neck at the front, with the top tightly hugging her figure, perfectly outlining her curves. The straps crisscrossed at the back, tied into a bow at her waist, highlighting the graceful lines of her back. The short flared skirt barely covered her thighs, while the red velvet train trailed elegantly behind her. Paired with black fishnet stockings, her long legs crossed gracefully as she moved. The stark contrast between the black stockings and her fair skin, coupled with glossy red heels, made her exude an aura of refined seduction¡ªboth elegant and fiery. Compared to Lilith¡¯s elaborate ensemble, Tia¡¯s attire was simpler yet no less striking. Her outfit, described succinctly, was revealing. A black strap on one shoulder connected to white lace trim, with a white silk bustier. Her black waistband featured lace-up details, and the sides were adorned with lace as well. The short black skirt was edged with white lace, and her back was almost entirely exposed, held together by ribbons that made her resemble a large, wrapped gift. Her full thighs were wrapped in white stockings that seemed to emit a faint warmth under the light. Her cool, stunning face was accentuated by light makeup, and her slightly tilted head added an alluring contrast to her otherwise icy demeanor. ¡°Surprise!¡± Lilith¡¯s radiant face glowed with a dazzling smile. ¡°To celebrate your success in the freshman qualification tournament, we¡¯ve prepared this banquet just for you. Are you surprised?¡± The sight of two breathtakingly beautiful women, both elegantly dressed, welcoming him to the banquet under the dim, dreamy lights was enough to make anyone lose themselves in their charms. Chapter 34: The Promised Collaboration—Miss, Why Did You Fall Asleep!? Chapter 34: The Promised Collaboration¡ªMiss, Why Did You Fall Asleep!? Tia forced a stiff smile on her face. "Such a joyous occasion naturally calls for celebration." Shia raised an eyebrow. This sudden enthusiasm from the master and servant duo felt like a weasel giving a New Year''s greeting to a chicken¡ªthere had to be an ulterior motive. Far from feeling flattered, he was on high alert. As they chatted, Lilith had already pulled Shia to sit at the dining table. The white candlesticks glowed warmly, their light flickering against the dark wine, creating an atmospheric scene filled with a subtle allure. The two women flanked Shia, one on each side, with Lilith already pouring him a drink with attentive care. "Shia, to congratulate you, I''ll toast to you first." Still slightly bewildered, Shia accepted the glass thrust into his hand. What kind of trick was this? This wasn¡¯t something that had happened in the game! "During the first specialty test, your tactic of confusing the enemy was brilliant. Come, let''s drink to that!" Lilith raised her glass with both hands, clinking it against Shia''s. ''Clink!'' A crisp sound echoed as the crimson liquid in the glasses swirled briefly. Shia brought the glass to his lips. The rich aroma filled his mouth with a slightly spicy edge that mellowed into a sweet aftertaste. It was indeed a fine wine. After one drink, the white-haired maid leaned closer, refilling his glass with devoted tenderness. Her soft figure subtly pressed against Shia¡¯s shoulder, the weight of her ample chest resting heavily against him. The scent of her warmth and softness created an intoxicating sensation of its own. Meanwhile, Tia felt utterly conflicted. Playing this role wasn¡¯t something she enjoyed, especially not in front of Lilith.Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators! It made her feel like... well, a bitch. Tia bit her lip slightly, her gaze flitting about nervously until it met Lilith''s eyes. The encouraging look she received dispelled her hesitation. Yes, exactly! A subtle but deliberate seduction was the way to go! You''re doing great! As soon as she locked eyes with Lilith, Tia''s inner turmoil dissipated, replaced by a newfound determination. All this was for Lilith¡ªit didn¡¯t matter! The silent exchange between the two women didn¡¯t escape Shia¡¯s notice. Although he hadn¡¯t experienced this exact scenario, he could easily guess Lilith¡¯s intentions. You want to get me drunk, huh? Fine. Let¡¯s play along with your game! As an expert alchemist of the ninth level, dealing with spiked wine was child¡¯s play. Shia reached out, gently taking Tia¡¯s delicate hand and rubbing it lightly as he shifted his gaze toward her face. Tia instinctively wanted to pull her hand back, her composure almost breaking. Across from her, Lilith, however, looked thrilled. Yes, this is exactly the reaction we want! Shia didn¡¯t push it too far, withdrawing his hand with a meaningful smile after a moment of idle toying. Tia sighed in relief and continued pouring drinks for the two of them. No one noticed the subtle substance that had appeared on Tia¡¯s hand¡ªnot even Tia herself. Only Shia, who raised his glass to conceal his smirk, knew. After a few rounds, it wasn¡¯t long before all three of them started looking a bit tipsy. Lilith, in particular, seemed the most affected. As the one taking special care to ensure Shia drank, she couldn¡¯t avoid drinking herself. And when Shia returned her toasts, she gladly drank more, believing it would speed up her plan to get him drunk. As for the goal of this plan? Lilith had kind of forgotten by now. The back-and-forth toasting had muddled her senses. She felt like she was walking on clouds¡ªsoft, light, and thoroughly comfortable. Her body gradually slumped, her eyelids growing heavier and heavier. The scene before her grew darker, darker still, until her eyes closed completely, and darkness claimed her. Tia, however, hadn¡¯t noticed Lilith¡¯s state. She was too focused on executing their plan. The wine had painted her cheeks with a rosy blush. Her slightly damp eyes shimmered with unshed tears, and though her gaze was beginning to lose focus, she still tried to maintain a semblance of composure. The allure she exuded in her dazed state was undeniable. Without realizing it, the slightly tipsy beauty collapsed into Shia''s arms. The scent of masculine pheromones filled her nose so vividly. And then, the moment came. Tia reached up to cover her ample chest¡ªthough it was impossible to fully shield¡ªwith a look of shock on her face. "What are you doing?! You¡¯re Lilith¡¯s fianc¨¦, and you dare take advantage of me!?" Her cold voice carried a husky sweetness, soft and slightly coquettish. Clearly, Tia was attempting to slander Shia¡¯s reputation and call on Lilith to uphold justice for her. Everything was going perfectly. Tia¡¯s face mixed shock and anger, with even a hint of disappointment. Her voice trembled with sorrow and indignation¡ªa performance worthy of full marks. Tia was brimming with confidence and smugness. Gotcha, you bastard. Thought you could intimidate me? Let¡¯s see who has the upper hand now! Though inwardly gleeful, she continued to feign the grief and indignation of someone who had been wronged. But as her gaze swept over Shia, she realized his expression wasn¡¯t quite right. Not only was there no trace of panic, but he seemed amused, as though watching a show unfold. Being caught taking advantage of another girl in front of his fianc¨¦e, and he wasn¡¯t flustered at all? Suddenly, she felt a tightening around her waist. Shia had skillfully wrapped an arm around her, pulling her soft, warm body into his embrace. His breath, tinged with wine, brushed against her face as he leaned close. Tia¡¯s breath hitched. His handsome face was right in front of her. But no matter how attractive the face, all she could think about was that this man was a talentless fool¡ªa mere bug who had dared to offend and threaten her. The thought filled her with anger. Her heart pounded violently, her entire body stiff with tension. He... he... how dare he!? Lilith was right there! How could he boldly do something like this to her!? Feeling the warmth of the soft figure in his arms and sensing her nervous tension, Shia chuckled. He arched an eyebrow and kindly motioned for her to look to the side. Tia followed his gaze. Lilith¡¯s stunning face was pressed against the table, her delicate body slumped forward. Her chest was squished against the table¡¯s edge, her arm serving as a pillow for her cheek. She was fast asleep. Her flushed cheeks and slightly parted lips painted the picture of someone in a blissful slumber. Tia¡¯s eyes widened slightly. Could it be? Still holding onto a shred of hope, she clung to the possibility that Lilith was only pretending. Then Shia reached out and poked Lilith¡¯s cheek. The soft, elastic texture of her face sank slightly under his touch, the collagen springing back enticingly. And Shia wasn¡¯t content to stop there¡ªhe started kneading it in front of Tia. If Lilith was pretending, there was no way she wouldn¡¯t react. But she didn¡¯t move at all. Instead, a sweet smile spread across her face, and she murmured dreamily: "Ice cream... so delicious~!" The sweetness was unmistakable. Chapter 35: Miss, Please Don’t Wake Up Right Now! Chapter 35: Miss, Please Don¡¯t Wake Up Right Now! Tia stared blankly at the scene before her, utterly dumbfounded. Miss, what are you doing? I haven¡¯t even started fighting, and you¡¯ve already surrendered!? How am I supposed to handle this now? Weren¡¯t we supposed to have a plan? I¡¯d attract his attention while you took photos for evidence. And now here you are, sleeping soundly, even talking in your sleep. What, are you planning to take photos in your dreams? Shia watched the dazed, wide-eyed maid and leisurely enjoyed her ever-changing expressions. Clearly, compared to Shia, Lilith was still far too inexperienced. She was no match for him. Her little scheme was transparent and easily countered. "Now that your master is asleep, is there anything you¡¯d like to say?" Shia¡¯s poised and elegant voice pulled Tia from her stupor. She stared at Shia''s harmless smile, her usual cold arrogance completely gone, replaced by visible trembling. "You... lowly scum¡ª" *Smack!* A crisp slap interrupted Tia¡¯s words. Shia still wore his polite, refined smile, but his hand showed no mercy. The sound of the slap echoed, followed by a ripple of trembling through her ample figure. Shia¡¯s smile softened slightly as he spoke in a slow, calm tone. "How many chances have I already given you?" The sharp-tongued maid was on the verge of tears. It wasn¡¯t that she didn¡¯t learn her lesson¡ªthis wasn¡¯t even her fault this time! But she couldn¡¯t say that. She couldn¡¯t possibly sell out Lilith, could she?If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. The last time she¡¯d merely been a little disrespectful, he¡¯d retaliated ruthlessly. If he found out this whole scheme was Lilith¡¯s idea, wouldn¡¯t he go after her next? Tia couldn¡¯t bear the thought of her cherished mistress being tainted by this detestable man. "I just couldn¡¯t stand it anymore. I wanted to expose your true nature in front of the lady," Tia gritted her teeth and took the blame for everything. "It was me who told her about the vile things you¡¯ve done to me before. The lady didn¡¯t believe me, so I came up with this plan to reveal your true self." Shia clicked his tongue and shook his head as he looked at the defiant maid who was still provoking him despite being slapped. Such a stubborn mouth. I wonder if the rest of her is as tough as that mouth of hers? The next second, Tia¡¯s face turned pale, then flushed with a sickly red hue. He wouldn¡¯t... Shia absolutely would. His gaze shifted downward, watching Tia¡¯s expression intently. Bullying this sharp-tongued maid in front of her own master¡ªit was oddly satisfying. Tia gritted her teeth, her brows furrowing tightly. A muffled groan escaped her throat, and sweat started to bead on her back, soaking through her clothing. The raspy sound carried a peculiar allure. Of course, being the generous soul he was, Shia kindly reminded her, "If you¡¯re too loud, you might wake her up~." Tia¡¯s face paled with horror. She hadn¡¯t meant to make a sound! Her cheeks turned a deep red as shame and anger overwhelmed her. Still, she resolved to prove her loyalty. She was Lilith¡¯s maid, loyal only to her. No matter what this scum tried, she would never yield! Tia pressed her lips tightly together, her plump, rosy lips nearly turning white from the pressure. But the mix of pain and a strange tingling sensation made it harder to endure than she expected. Her clenched teeth began to falter. She bit down on her lip, leaving deep imprints, yet her determined expression held firm. Though the occasional muffled groan escaped, it was far quieter than before. Staring at Lilith¡¯s peacefully sleeping face, Tia found renewed determination. This was her lady, her lifelong devotion. She was perfect, an angel beyond compare. For someone so flawless, Tia would endure anything! Despite her mental fortitude, her body betrayed her. The relentless barrage of attacks left her increasingly weak. Her vision grew hazy, and the strength in her jaw started to fade. Her flushed cheeks turned an even deeper shade of crimson, her eyes shimmering as if tears would fall any moment. Shia studied Tia¡¯s reddened face with an amused expression. "You¡¯re enjoying this, aren¡¯t you?" Tia, already in a daze, kept repeating to herself: Just a little longer. Just endure this a little longer. Time seemed to stretch endlessly. Then Shia¡¯s voice jolted her out of her thoughts, his words like a sudden shock to her system. "I¡¯m not!" she blurted out immediately. Her raspy voice carried a soft, almost delicate tone, firm in intent but lacking any real strength. Unfortunately, no matter how quickly she denied it, her soft, trembling body betrayed her. "Hahaha..." Shia chuckled softly. His laughter brimmed with mockery. Though he didn¡¯t say anything more, the meaning in his laughter was clear. Tia clenched her fists tightly, though she lacked the strength to truly resist. Her face burned with embarrassment, yet she was utterly helpless. It seemed the more she denied it, the more it felt like an admission. In the end, Tia simply shut her eyes. Her white hair, damp with sweat, clung to her face. The contrast against her flushed skin made her appear even redder. The mixture of pain and tingling sensations was like an electric current. She knew she should hate this, should resist. But... There was no way she would admit that being hit felt good! No matter how much she mentally rejected the idea, her body was starting to develop conflicting feelings about the man she despised. Would he discover her obsession with Lilith¡¯s personal belongings? Or even her hidden masochistic tendencies? She shivered at the thought. To be humiliated by someone she loathed, to be bullied in front of the lady she adored¡ªher mind reeled at the contradictions her body presented. Gradually, her strength gave out. Even her willpower began to waver under the constant assault. The sound of slaps and Tia¡¯s raspy gasps echoed through the room. The noise, coupled with their proximity to Lilith, made the situation precarious. Even in her sleep, Lilith stirred uncomfortably. "Mm~." A faint murmur slipped from Lilith¡¯s lips. Her long lashes fluttered, her brows furrowing slightly. She seemed about to wake, a hint of annoyance crossing her face. Tia, already tense, froze completely. Her body went rigid like a stone, her nerves stretched to their limits. And yet, her soft, ample figure remained a stark contrast, making her an easy target for the detestable man who seemed to delight in her torment. Tears welled in her eyes as panic overtook her. What should I do? What should I do!? If the lady wakes up now and sees me like this, how will I ever face her again? Chapter 36: These Hands Feel Filthy, My Whole Body Feels Filthy Chapter 36: These Hands Feel Filthy, My Whole Body Feels Filthy Tia was on the verge of tears, pressing her stocking-clad legs together tightly. The soft flesh of her thighs pressed against each other, giving off a subtle warmth. She looked at Shia with pleading, misty eyes, filled with desperation. Please, just don¡¯t go too far! Don¡¯t wake the Miss. Don¡¯t let her see me like this. The once cold and aloof maid was now completely broken, more like a wounded little animal begging for mercy. Shia understood her perfectly. Being the benevolent person he was, how could he bear to put this pitiful maid in an even tougher spot? He chuckled softly and leaned close to whisper in her ear. ¡°There¡¯s another way, you know.¡± His deep, magnetic voice, laced with warmth and youthful charm, sent shivers down her spine as it invaded her ears. Tia¡¯s ears tickled, but she didn¡¯t dare move an inch. His quiet, unhurried words carried a teasing undertone. As they sank in, her expression shifted from surprise to disbelief, then to sheer outrage. Her wide eyes burned with fury as she glared at him, nearly losing all reason. Scum! How dare you suggest something so outrageous!? Shia, however, only covered his lips, his eyes glinting with even deeper amusement. ¡°Time is running out, you know~.¡± It was like a bucket of ice water poured over her head. Tia¡¯s heart sank instantly. She turned her head to look at Lilith. Her mistress¡¯s eyelashes were trembling, her eyes rolling under her lids¡ªshe was clearly on the verge of waking. The panic in Tia¡¯s heart grew. She glanced at her own pitiful state, her flushed cheeks and trembling body. Tears welled in her eyes as she ultimately chose to yield. When she bit her lip and nodded, it felt like something inside her had shattered. (Ultimate-Harem-Fan: There aren''t any R-18 scenes in this chapter, but I''ve already written one. If any Patreon subscribers request it, I''ll publish it)This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report. It was the greatest shame of her life. But what choice did she have? There was no other solution. Shia observed her begrudging agreement with satisfaction, his mood significantly brightened. The path they were walking down had now well and truly veered off course. Tia¡¯s long, white hair cascaded down her back, concealing the graceful line of her spine. Her gaze, however, never left her beloved Miss. She watched Lilith as she slept, her cheeks rosy, gradually slipping back into a deeper slumber. Tia¡¯s face was a cocktail of sorrow, pain, despair, grief, and... numbness. The person she loved most was peacefully asleep beside her, while she used her hands to serve the person she hated most. The overwhelming sense of betrayal consumed her, but alongside it came a strange heat spreading through her body. Realizing this only deepened Tia¡¯s shame, but she couldn¡¯t stop. For Lilith¡¯s sake, she endured. --- When it was over, Tia¡¯s face burned with embarrassment. Her ears were so red they looked ready to drip blood. Though the blush on her face had subsided somewhat, it had taken considerable effort¡ªdeep breaths and self-control¡ªto reach even this point. The sound of running water filled the room. The white-haired maid bent slightly over the sink, her long hair falling forward to cover part of her face. Her pale, slender fingers scrubbed under the hot water, the skin turning red from the heat. Yet Tia seemed oblivious to the scalding temperature. She kept scrubbing her hands over and over, harder and harder. Her hands were already sore and raw, but she didn¡¯t stop. She felt filthy. The self-loathing reached its peak. She wanted to cut off her own hands. How could these hands touch her beloved Miss again? Just thinking about it brought back the sensation from earlier, and Tia¡¯s face turned ashen. She scrubbed even harder. She even stripped off her clothes, discarding them entirely. Dirty. Too dirty! They were unwearable now. But the more she hated herself, the more her thoughts involuntarily drifted back to the scene from before. Tia¡¯s face grew red again, her expression anxious and uneasy. It was shocking how she looked now¡ªlike she had spilled milk all over herself! ¡°Ugh~.¡± A soft groan came from the bed, pulling Tia out of her thoughts. Lilith stirred, holding her head with a pained expression. Her eyes fluttered open, and the first thing she saw was Tia sitting by her bedside. The sight didn¡¯t surprise Lilith, but what puzzled her was the way Tia kept giving her a pitiful, guilty look. Her head throbbed. The hangover was unbearable. The pain was so intense she didn¡¯t have time to dwell on why Tia was acting so strangely. She reached out a hand. Years of shared habits had Tia stepping forward immediately, taking Lilith¡¯s hand and helping her sit up. As their hands touched, Tia¡¯s gaze dropped. The memory of the night before flooded back, and her face grew even paler. The guilt weighed on her heart. How could someone as angelic as her Miss be touched by these hands that had...? It was unforgivable. Lilith drank the water Tia offered, feeling a bit better as she started to recall the events of the previous night. She remembered drinking one glass after another, and then... nothing. Curiosity crept into her voice. ¡°What happened after I fell asleep?¡± Tia avoided her gaze, keeping her head lowered. There was no way she could say it. ¡°I think... we all just fell asleep?¡± Tia stammered, her voice uneven. ¡°The wine... was pretty strong. I can¡¯t really remember.¡± Each word was forced out with great effort. Her guilt and unease were overwhelming. Lilith didn¡¯t question it further. After all, she had been so drunk, it made sense for everyone to have passed out. What a missed opportunity. She sighed and shifted uncomfortably, her sticky skin making her frown. ¡°I need a bath.¡± Lilith extended her hand toward Tia, silently asking for help. Though guilt plagued her, Tia could never refuse Lilith¡¯s requests. She helped her to the bathroom, supporting her unsteady form. Due to her hangover, Lilith¡¯s movements were sluggish. She let Tia undress her, sitting on the edge of the bath as she peeled off her netted stockings. Tia¡¯s eyes widened, glued to the stockings. They carried her Miss¡¯s scent. Lilith stepped into the bath, completely unaware of the turmoil behind her. Tia¡¯s heart raced as she alternated between staring at Lilith¡¯s perfect silhouette disappearing into the water and the stockings in her hands. In the end, she couldn¡¯t resist. Her hand trembled as she brought the stockings closer, inhaling deeply. Shame washed over her. I really am a hopeless pervert. She knew it was wrong¡ªcompletely unacceptable¡ªbut she couldn¡¯t stop herself. Fine. Consider the punishment from that scum earlier as atonement for my sins. For this perverted act, I deserve it. Tia convinced herself, as if letting go of some heavy burden. In a strange way, she felt... relieved. Chapter 37: Madam, Don’t You Want to Revive Your Late Husband Quickly Too? Chapter 37: Madam, Don¡¯t You Want to Revive Your Late Husband Quickly Too? In the distant room. Clink! The crisp sound of porcelain shattering echoed as a delicate teacup hit the ground, splitting into two halves. The liquid inside spilled across the floor. Ella¡¯s expression froze in shock, disbelief etched across her face. As she slowly regained her composure, the elegant lady, dressed in a form-fitting dress that clung to her curves, crouched down gracefully to clean up the mess she had made. Her mind, however, remained in turmoil. Her slender fingers picked up the broken pieces, yet her eyes stayed vacant, unfocused. ''Shia, the top student of the academy!'' Wasn¡¯t he just an arrogant little brat who blackmailed widows like her? How could he also be a genius? Her thoughts wandered as she held the shattered porcelain pieces, staring blankly into space. Just then, a knock at the door jolted her back to reality. Ella quickly tidied the mess, smoothing her dress to regain her composure, before heading to the door. But when she opened it, the sight of the youthful, refined young man standing there with a warm, polite smile caught her completely off guard. It was as if her thoughts had conjured him into existence. She instinctively took a step back. Shia stepped into the room naturally, his presence bypassing Ella¡¯s stunned form as he casually walked further inside. ¡°Aunt Ella, I¡¯m here for tutoring,¡± he said with a bright smile, his youthful energy radiating from him. By the time Ella came back to her senses, Shia had already made himself at home. ¡°Tutoring?¡± she asked, her tone tinged with doubt. ¡°Yes, I need to keep up with the academy¡¯s pace,¡± he replied cheerfully, already settling onto the sofa as if he owned the place. Pulling out pen and paper from his bag, he looked up at her with a serious expression and an eager glint in his eyes.Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road. He looked every bit the diligent student, yet Ella couldn¡¯t shake her unease. His intentions felt far from pure, but with her vulnerability in his hands, what choice did she have but to comply? Her form-fitting dress accentuated her voluptuous figure, every curve outlined in soft, inviting arcs. She clasped one arm around herself, her posture hesitant and demure, radiating the vibe of a timid yet alluring housewife. Her voice was gentle but tinged with uncertainty as she began to explain concepts to him. Shia, for his part, dutifully jotted down notes, his handsome face aglow with earnestness. Sitting beside him, Ella couldn¡¯t help but notice how the sunlight streaming through the window illuminated her silky violet hair and flawless complexion, making her look ethereal. The gentle sway of her full hips and the soft swell of her chest, barely restrained by the tight dress, added an air of sensual grace. It was the kind of scene that would make anyone envious¡ªan eager young man being tutored by such a captivating beauty. Shia¡¯s pen didn¡¯t pause, capturing every detail she explained. Meanwhile, Ella stole glances at his focused profile, feeling inexplicably awkward. ''He hasn¡¯t made any inappropriate demands?'' she thought, perplexed. Usually, in scenarios like this, a brat like him would be taking advantage of the situation, asking for things beyond mere tutoring under the pretext of enhancing his motivation. Perhaps he¡¯d demand something ridiculous, like¡ Ella¡¯s mind betrayed her, conjuring vivid fantasies. She imagined Shia using the pretense of studying to get his way, coercing her into submissive positions under the desk while his dark, mischievous smile loomed above her. In her vision, his boyish charm twisted into something devilish, and she found herself helpless, her only view his growing dominance. The forbidden images spiraled further¡ªshe could even picture his audacity in flaunting their indiscretion in front of her late husband¡¯s portrait. The thought sent a mix of shame and thrill coursing through her. Her gaze shifted to the black-and-white photograph nearby, the gentle smile of her late husband now haunting her with guilt. But when she blinked, the vision dissolved. Shia was still seated at the coffee table, diligently taking notes, his lean figure bent slightly forward due to the low height of the table. His side profile was clean-cut, his youthful energy palpable. It was all her imagination¡ªnothing more than a fleeting, shameful daydream. Ella¡¯s cheeks flushed with heat as the reality of her thoughts set in, her toes curling against the floor in embarrassment. ''What the hell was I just thinking?!'' If Shia knew what had been running through her head, he¡¯d probably smirk and tease her with something like, ¡°No wonder older women are so fun¡ªthey have such vivid imaginations.¡± Meanwhile, Shia was entirely focused on the task at hand. He was using Ella¡¯s explanations to verify if the world he now inhabited aligned with the settings of the game he was familiar with. The sudden appearance of the academy headmaster and Lilith¡¯s schemes had left him feeling an underlying sense of urgency. If the world deviated from the game, some of his plans might need revision. But as Ella¡¯s soft voice guided him through her teachings, his notes grew more and more reassuring¡ªthis world largely matched the one he knew. The deviations in the storyline might simply be a result of his own actions. Ella¡¯s voice eventually trailed off, her attention drifting to Shia¡¯s focused expression. His high-bridged nose, calm yet resolute eyes, and slightly pursed lips made for a striking picture. Without realizing it, she found herself appreciating his appearance. ''Focused boys are more attractive¡ Quiet moments like this make them even more mesmerizing.'' The thought flitted through her mind so quickly she barely noticed it. She only knew that Shia¡¯s intentions remained as inscrutable as ever. Was he truly here just for tutoring? Her thoughts scattered when Shia suddenly spoke. ¡°Our goals are aligned,¡± he said, his words interrupting her reverie. The statement took a moment to register. Ella blinked, processing it. ¡°What do you mean?¡± she asked, flustered, worried that her earlier thoughts had somehow been exposed. ¡°I mean, we¡¯re both working toward the same end¡ªgetting a foothold at the academy,¡± Shia replied, his calm eyes meeting hers with a smile. ¡°And to help me achieve that, I need your assistance in excelling further.¡± Ella wanted to scoff but refrained, her good upbringing holding her back. His request seemed straightforward, but it wasn¡¯t her goal¡ªit was his. Yet, as if reading her innermost thoughts, Shia leaned in slightly, his voice dropping. ¡°After all, don¡¯t you also want to revive your late husband as soon as possible?¡± Ella¡¯s head snapped up, her eyes wide in shock. Chapter 38: That Back—A Perfect Canvas for Scraping Therapy! Chapter 38: That Back¡ªA Perfect Canvas for Scraping Therapy! Ella abruptly lifted her head, her expression a mix of panic and shock. She met Shia''s warm gaze, his eyes steady and confident, brimming with certainty. It was as though he had complete faith in his judgment. Ella quickly turned her head, trying to escape his intense focus. "What nonsense are you talking about? I don¡¯t know what you mean!" Her thoughts were in complete disarray, a chaotic tangle she had no desire to face in this moment. However, before she could move further away, a strong yet gentle hand pressed down on her soft, rounded shoulder, turning her firmly to face Shia. She refused to look directly at him, lowering her delicate face slightly, her head tilted away. His large, firm hands all but enveloped her slender shoulders. The dry warmth of his palms sent a shiver through her taut body. Shia seemed entirely unaffected by her denial or obvious attempts to evade him, continuing the conversation with unshaken composure. "Though it''s difficult, reviving the dead isn¡¯t entirely impossible," he said softly. "In fact, the Seven Shields Academy has methods¡ªmore than one, even." Her shoulders still held firmly, Ella couldn''t avoid him any longer. Curiosity and a flicker of hope drew her gaze toward him. How could this be true? She had been a lecturer at the academy for years and had never heard of such things. Her reputation wasn¡¯t confined to the students; even among the faculty, she was a standout figure. Shia caught her skeptical look and offered a faintly regretful smile. "Unfortunately, those methods involve forbidden techniques¡ªsecrets even someone of your status as a lecturer can¡¯t access." Ella¡¯s gaze dimmed almost imperceptibly. It made sense. How could such a possibility exist? Everything she had tried so far barely held a sliver of hope. But if there were a chance within the academy¡ Her thoughts spiraled, a tiny flicker of anticipation forming despite herself. "Only the most extraordinary students, those who excel in both talent and accumulated merit, might gain access to these forbidden techniques." Shia smiled warmly. "So, Aunt Ella, wouldn¡¯t you agree that our goals align perfectly?"Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit. She understood his meaning. He wanted to rise within the academy, and to achieve that, he needed her help. In return, he would assist her in finding a way to resurrect her late husband. Yes, that must be it! Shia¡¯s unyielding gaze affirmed her guess. A mutually beneficial deal¡ªwhat could be better? Yet, a knot of complex emotions twisted in Ella¡¯s chest. She felt exposed, as though every layer of her carefully guarded secrets had been stripped away. Her dual identity as a double agent, her true purpose¡ªeverything seemed to lie bare before this boy. How did he know? Who exactly was he? She stared at his youthful yet striking face, mere inches away. He radiated an aura both enigmatic and ancient, like a primordial beast. Despite his lean, youthful physique, she felt he held immense latent power. This mysterious young man, who seemed to see through her so effortlessly, stirred something deep within her¡ªawe and trepidation. And with awe comes the beginning of submission. Her lips parted slightly, her voice husky. "You¡" Who are you? Why would you help me? The rest of her words stuck in her throat, unspoken. But in their shared gaze, Shia understood. He gave a gentle, harmless smile. "I¡¯m just a good person, Aunt Ella. I genuinely want to help you achieve your goal." Ella quickly shifted her gaze, unwilling to let her emotions betray her. A good person? She wasn¡¯t sure. All she knew was that she had no way to resist him. What choice did she have but to accept? "Alright." A way to revive the dead within the academy? Ella had been teaching here for so many years and had never found any evidence of such methods. Even if Shia seemed so confident, she couldn¡¯t fully believe him. But the crushing weight of her hidden efforts and her hopeless future were undeniable. The pressure had been enormous. After all, Ella was just a woman, yearning for the warmth of a family. Her husband¡¯s untimely death left her to face everything alone. Now, someone was offering to share the burden. Was it so wrong to let him? "Alright," she repeated softly, her gaze meeting Shia¡¯s as she nodded. Shia¡¯s face lit up with a radiant smile. "Aunt Ella, as part of our agreement, would you like me to give you a massage? Consider it a small token of my gratitude." Ella instinctively refused, but before she could react, her long, shapely leg was suddenly lifted. Her delicate foot, clad in silky black stockings, was cradled in his firm grip. The abrupt movement tipped her off balance. She fell back onto the couch, her body arching slightly as she quickly braced herself with her hands. Her heart raced as she looked down at his hand wrapped around her soft, slender foot, heat rushing to her face. "Y-You¡¯re too bold!" she stammered, her voice shaking with embarrassment. The skilled movements of his fingers gliding along her sole sent jolts through her, an almost unbearable sensation that made her petite frame tighten instinctively. His touch was too practiced, too precise¡ªit left her flustered beyond measure. "Aunt Ella, you¡¯ve been under a lot of stress," Shia said earnestly, his fingers applying firm yet gentle pressure. "You¡¯re exhausted. Let me help you relax." His fingertips worked deftly over the sensitive points of her foot, stopping to press and circle over key acupressure points. Ella¡¯s body softened under his touch, a weak protest forming on her lips. She wanted to pull her leg away but found herself unable to escape the intoxicating relief his massage brought. "From your feet alone, I can tell you haven¡¯t been sleeping well, Aunt Ella," Shia murmured, his voice laced with concern. "Your shoulders are tight too. Let me guess¡ constant tension, right?" Ella¡¯s initial doubts began to waver. Could he genuinely be trying to help? Bit by bit, her resistance crumbled. Before she knew it, she had repositioned herself on the couch. Now lying facedown, she rested her cheek against the soft leather, her arms folded beside her head. Her long, violet hair was swept aside, revealing the graceful curve of her back. Her slender figure was accentuated by the deep-V design of her dress, which exposed her smooth, fair skin. The elegant curve of her spine led to the enticing swell of her ample chest, the fabric struggling to contain her generous proportions. Her back rose and fell gently, her delicate shoulder blades like butterfly wings fluttering with each breath. Shia¡¯s gaze lingered, utterly captivated. "Such a beautiful back," he remarked, cracking his knuckles in preparation. "Not giving it a proper scraping treatment would truly be a waste." Ella¡¯s voice trembled with both anticipation and uncertainty. "I-Is this¡ really necessary?" "Absolutely," Shia assured her, his smile growing wider as he flexed his fingers. "Trust me, Aunt Ella. I¡¯ll take good care of you." He leaned closer, determined to give his all. After all, bringing ancient practices like this to another world was practically his duty. Chapter 39: "Teacher, Open the Door! Dont Just Make Noises Behind It" Chapter 39: "Teacher, Open the Door! Don''t Just Make Noises Behind It" "Knock, knock, knock." The sudden knocking on the door startled Ella. "Teacher, it''s me, Lilith. I''m here to visit you." A clear and pleasant female voice came through the door. Ella turned her head, her large, watery eyes full of hesitation as she looked toward Shia for guidance. She hadn¡¯t expected Lilith to visit at this time. Ella glanced at herself: a silk dress clung tightly to her body, damp and sticking to her curves. Her back felt a warm, lingering soreness¡ªnot entirely unpleasant, but tinged with a strange sensation. Her stunningly beautiful face was shiny with sweat, giving her pale skin a slight pink glow. Purple hair clung to her neck and shoulders, slightly messy but sensually disheveled. Thanks to Shia''s skillful massage, her previously tense expression now looked soft and relaxed. Shia chuckled softly, shaking his head, signaling her to remain calm. However, Ella still hesitated. A student was waiting outside, knocking. Was it really right to ignore them, pretending not to be home? ¡°Therapy sessions shouldn¡¯t be interrupted,¡± Shia said plainly, his calm gaze dispelling Ella''s doubts. ¡°Ahh~!¡± Ella''s cheeks flushed even deeper as a soft, involuntary moan escaped her lips. Her expression shifted between pain and an unmistakable trace of pleasure. Tilting her delicate neck slightly upward, a bead of sweat slid down her jawline and disappeared into the deep valley of her full, snow-white breasts. Shia sighed in mild exasperation at her reaction. ¡°It¡¯s just a massage. Don¡¯t make it sound like¡ something else.¡± His voice was warm and magnetic, yet filled with an understated authority.Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings. Ella¡¯s face turned crimson as she bit her lip, but another muffled moan still escaped her throat. Her hands clutched the sofa tightly, leaving faint nail marks as she unconsciously tensed and relaxed with Shia''s movements. Meanwhile, Lilith stood anxiously outside the door. She had intended to use the opportunity to bond with her mentor, perhaps to comfort her with some light conversation¡ªor better yet, a bit of casual physical closeness. Girls holding hands wasn¡¯t weird, right? Totally normal. If she could, brushing against her teacher¡¯s smooth, silky stockings would be even better! Lilith''s thoughts drifted to Ella¡¯s luscious, shapely legs¡ªwrapped in mysterious black stockings, exuding a perfect balance of softness and elasticity with just a hint of warmth radiating through the material. The thought alone made Lilith¡¯s heart race, her expression turning slightly flushed. Who didn¡¯t love a curvaceous older woman? Lilith unconsciously wiped at the corner of her mouth, only to find no drool¡ªyet. Shaking herself out of her daze, she composed herself, standing in a dignified posture while waiting. One second. Two seconds. One minute. Two minutes. Lilith blinked, puzzled. Was no one home? Pressing her ear against the door, she focused intently. Faint rustling sounds could be heard inside. If her teacher was home, why wasn¡¯t she opening the door? But if no one was there, why the noise? Doubt flashed in Lilith¡¯s mind before she dismissed it. No, she definitely heard something! Unless her teacher was dealing with some¡ uncontrollable circumstances. Yes, that must be it! Her imagination began running wild, conjuring hundreds of scenarios. Lilith''s concern escalated, and she knocked again. ¡°Teacher? Are you home?¡± Still, no response. Convinced that something was wrong, Lilith took a deep breath, steeling herself to break in. However, just as she stepped back to gather momentum, the door opened abruptly. Standing in the doorway was Ella, her purple hair slightly disheveled. One hand held the doorframe, the other gripping the doorknob for support. Her flushed face was framed by beads of sweat glistening against her radiant, creamy skin, giving her an appearance that was both refreshed and alluring. Lilith¡¯s gaze locked onto her teacher, momentarily losing herself in the sight. ¡°Lilith? Lilith?¡± Ella¡¯s soft voice brought Lilith back to reality. She blinked rapidly, clearing her thoughts. ¡°Is something the matter?¡± Ella asked, her tone gentle. Lilith quickly remembered her purpose and broke into a warm smile. ¡°Teacher, I brought you something to eat,¡± she said, lifting a gift bag filled with desserts. Ella¡¯s eyes followed the gesture, catching the faintly sweet aroma wafting from the bag. ¡°I made your favorite mousse cake myself, to thank you for your guidance,¡± Lilith added cheerfully. Ella¡¯s expression softened into a smile as she accepted the bag. ¡°You¡¯re very thoughtful. Thank you.¡± However, Ella''s movements were noticeably delicate. Her fingers brushed against Lilith¡¯s as she took the bag, their touch light and fleeting. Lilith immediately noticed how soft and weak Ella¡¯s grip felt, her body leaning slightly against the doorframe for support. Her other hand still clung to the doorknob. Lilith¡¯s eyes sparkled, wondering if this was her chance to be invited inside for some quality bonding time. However, Ella, still smiling, gently declined. ¡°I¡¯m feeling a little tired today. Let¡¯s have afternoon tea another time.¡± With that, she stepped back, her body retreating into the house. The door slowly closed despite Lilith¡¯s hopeful gaze. ¡°Bang.¡± The soft sound of the door shutting snapped Lilith out of her daze. She suddenly realized something peculiar¡ªher teacher wasn¡¯t wearing stockings today. Barefoot? That was rare. Ella¡¯s trademark black stockings always completed her widow-like elegance. Even so, her pale, bare feet had their own charm. Satisfied with the visual treat, Lilith left contentedly, not thinking much more of the situation. Inside, Ella leaned back against the closed door, her gaze falling on Shia. He was seated in the living room, calm and composed. On the floor near him, a crumpled pair of black stockings lay abandoned, stained and discarded. Shia¡¯s gaze followed Ella¡¯s, his expression unreadable as he glanced at the stockings. ¡°Her endurance really is something,¡± he remarked, the faint hint of a smile playing at his lips. Ella¡¯s cheeks burned anew. She felt equal parts embarrassment and shame at being seen like this by Shia. He idly stroked a ring on his finger, which glowed faintly, summoning a panel visible only to him. Name: Ella Progress: 15% A satisfied smile spread across his face. Progress was undeniable. Chapter 40: Isnt It Fun to Make the White-Stockings Princess Call You Daddy? (1) Chapter 40: Isn''t It Fun to Make the White-Stockings Princess Call You Daddy? (1) Time flew by. The first class for the new students was already underway. Much like a university from Shia''s previous life, Seven Shields Academy valued freedom, even offering a laid-back approach to class scheduling. Theoretical classes in the morning, practical training in the afternoon. No strict requirements¡ªstudents could skip entirely if they wanted. At Seven Shields, students could either laze about and muddle through or become overachieving perfectionists grinding themselves to death. The only catch? You had to meet the mission requirements. The academy imposed monthly special tasks, mandatory for all students to complete. Failing three times in a row meant immediate expulsion. These missions ranged from basic bandit extermination and beast-clearing to advanced dragon-slaying battles, aiding in the defense against beast tides, or even resolving a national crisis. Essentially, the academy turned its students into elite, unpaid workers, building prestige while raking in profits. This system was a major reason why Seven Shields enjoyed such high regard. The academy was excellent at business. But the real challenge lay in the midterm exams three months later¡ªarguably the most critical assessment. To summarize: everything depended on the student''s initiative. Shia¡¯s initiative, of course, was unquestionable. At the moment, all the new students were gathered in a large hall for a shared lecture. Naturally, this was a theoretical class. The content? Mostly fluff: the evils of the demon race, the glory of Seven Shields¡¯ founding, the righteousness of its cause¡If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. The typical victors-writing-history narrative. There was also an explanation of the training system, though it was disappointingly generic. The game¡¯s developers had clearly spent all their creative energy designing the female characters, leaving everything else half-baked. Both the combat and secondary professions followed a straightforward nine-tier system, without even a "reset with bonuses" mechanic to add complexity. It seemed like the developers had copy-pasted their favorite RPG archetypes¡ªmages, swordsmen, clerics, and the like¡ªwithout much thought. Such laziness made Shia lose interest entirely, so he skipped the class. Mental conditioning? Not a chance! Of course, Shia''s absence was fully sanctioned¡ªhe had an official leave slip. As the top freshman with Ella, a first-tier lecturer, backing him, skipping classes openly was no big deal. This freedom reminded Shia of his university days¡ªthe carefree thrill of cutting class! Don''t tell me you¡¯ve never skipped a lecture before? As for practical training, however, that was a different matter entirely. Practical sessions were what truly set Seven Shields Academy apart, attracting talented students from all over the continent. The academy boasted resources from across the land, with instructors who were far from ordinary. Most were either from Seven Shields itself or among the top experts from around the continent, excelling in a wide variety of professions. Naturally, they provided the most comprehensive and outstanding training possible. Unfortunately for Shia, none of this mattered. He didn¡¯t have any profession that suited him, zero combat talent, no knack for wielding a staff to heal the masses, and no skill for tanking with a heavy sword. His only hope was waiting¡ªfor the first layer of the Charm Ring to unlock, allowing him to create his own unique hidden class. That afternoon, before the practical training began, the new students participated in a collective activity: observing upperclassmen in a combat demonstration. Shia knew this was part of the main storyline¡ªa minor event in the grand scheme. In a world where every female character had a distinct role, this event wasn¡¯t important because it was the new students'' first practical lesson. It was significant because it involved his golden-haired, black-stockinged childhood friend¡¯s big debut. The ultimate protagonist moment! ¡°You¡¯re all new students. Some of you may have prior experience with training and combat,¡± came Ella¡¯s clear, commanding voice. ¡°But that doesn¡¯t matter. Here, everything you¡¯ve learned before will seem insignificant.¡± Her tone was sharp and carried a hint of arrogance, a deliberate reminder to all the new students of their place. As her words faded, the group arrived at the upperclassmen training grounds. Four senior students were already in position for their combat demonstration. One of them was none other than Lilith. At first glance, Lilith¡¯s exceptional presence immediately drew the new students'' attention. Among the four, her long legs clad in elegant black stockings stood out the most. Her refined demeanor and unrestrained aura of power exuded confidence, fully showcasing her magnetic charm. Just standing there, with her tall posture and perfect proportions, Lilith projected unparalleled strength and grace. Shia, blending in with the crowd, gazed at the striking golden-haired lady with an expression devoid of emotion. Though Lilith was undoubtedly a schemer among schemers, her strength was undeniable. A fifth-tier combatant! Such power was enough to make her a force to be reckoned with outside the academy. But within Seven Shields, it merely placed her among the second-years. Seven Shields Academy was, after all, built using the combined resources of the entire continent, gathering the cream of the crop from across the world. This applied not only to the instructors but also to the students. Even so, fifth-tier strength was just Lilith¡¯s base capability¡ªshe hadn¡¯t even started utilizing her ¡°protagonist powers.¡± ¡°Hello, juniors. I¡¯m your senior, Lilith.¡± Lilith straightened her back, flashing a perfectly measured smile. With a subtle shift in her stance, she struck a striking pose and waved at the audience. A simple movement, yet it left the freshmen awestruck. Throughout the demonstration, Lilith¡¯s performance was outstanding. No matter who her opponent was, she dispatched them effortlessly. A strong, elegant, and beautiful senior¡ªwho wouldn¡¯t admire her? On the surface, such an exceptional senior seemed to have no connection to Shia. Her incredible strength was the source of her confidence. Given the significant gap between her and Shia¡¯s current abilities, she felt she could manipulate him without fear. Chapter 41: Isnt It Fun to Make the White-Stockings Princess Call You Daddy? (2) Chapter 41: Isn''t It Fun to Make the White-Stockings Princess Call You Daddy? (2) Lilith frequently roped him into doing her bidding while keeping him at arm¡¯s length emotionally. This dynamic stemmed from their disparity in power, giving Lilith absolute confidence. She didn¡¯t even feel the need to resort to brute force, believing her mental games alone were sufficient. Otherwise, things might not have gone her way so easily. Lost in thought, Shia¡¯s attention returned to the match just as it concluded. Though it was a demonstration, the combat was genuine. Lilith¡¯s sparring partner, an upperclassman chosen as her opponent, was no match for her. With her elegant and powerful techniques, Lilith dominated the match, leaving her opponent flustered and outmatched. It only took a few moments for her to claim victory. The freshmen¡¯s gasps of admiration snapped Shia out of his musings. Looking up, he saw Lilith standing proudly on the stage. Her red form-fitting performance outfit accentuated her figure perfectly. Her slim waist and toned abs were faintly visible through the fabric, giving her a dynamic, athletic beauty. She wore ultra-short skirt-shorts paired with sheer black stockings, and every kick of her long legs commanded the battlefield. A faint sheen of sweat on her forehead only added to her allure, showcasing the beauty of motion itself. It was as if Lilith stood under a spotlight, her entire being radiating brilliance. Watching her, Shia felt a sudden sense of crisis. If one day Lilith gave up her mental manipulations and decided to lock him in a dark room, he¡¯d have no way to resist. He¡¯d have no chance to fight back then. The only solution was to accelerate his own growth. Only by becoming stronger could he gain the power to protect himself! Only then could he openly and confidently turn this scheming woman into his golden retriever! --- After the combat demonstration, it was time for the new students'' training session. Lilith, now basking in the admiration of the freshmen, had become a role model. The reliable senior in black stockings, paired with her dazzling golden hair and radiant, sunny smile¡ªwho could possibly dislike her?If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. Especially since she didn¡¯t display the arrogance of a skilled fighter and was even willing to guide her junior schoolmates. ¡°Your grip on the sword isn¡¯t quite right. It¡¯ll tire your wrist and weaken your strikes,¡± Lilith said. From behind, she wrapped her arms around a younger girl, gently adjusting her posture with both hands. This close and tender guidance left the girl blushing with excitement. After circling through the crowd, Lilith had effortlessly gained a group of adoring fans. When she reached Violet, she smiled brightly and greeted her enthusiastically, working hard to leave a good impression. "Violet, it¡¯s nice to see you again," Lilith said warmly. Violet nodded with a reserved smile. As the eldest daughter of the Guen family, Violet saw Lilith as a strong senior worth befriending. Connection rating: +1. The two conversed easily, while Shia¡ªdespite being Lilith¡¯s fianc¨¦¡ªwas treated like a stranger. After all, Lilith had already made it clear that in public, she would only acknowledge him if she chose to. ¡°I don¡¯t want people to think you got in here because of me,¡± she had said, her expression one of deep sincerity. If Shia didn¡¯t know her true nature, he might have believed her. Not that it bothered him. Playing the part of strangers was fine by him. --- After the upperclassmen¡¯s demonstration and guidance session, it was time for the new students to engage in their own combat exercises. Pairing was done freely. The freshmen were brimming with excitement, eager to both win their matches and challenge strong opponents. But the strongest figures, like Violet¡ªrevered as the Silver Moon Princess¡ªwere out of reach for most. Who would willingly face someone so powerful and risk getting crushed? Violet, for her part, wasn¡¯t interested in dueling just anyone. She already had her target in mind. Her goal was none other than Shia, the top-ranking freshman who had taken first place in the entrance qualifications. She intended to publicly expose his weakness and destroy his reputation. A commoner with no training talent¡ªwhat right did he have to claim such an honor? An honor that rightfully belonged to her, and her alone. ¡°I challenge you,¡± Violet declared, standing directly before Shia. Her expression was calm, but her heart was in turmoil. Though she disliked the thought of humiliating someone publicly, she felt compelled to do so. Shia, however, wasn¡¯t surprised by her challenge. And that was precisely why he found it so annoying. She didn¡¯t want to face the consequences of beating him, knowing it would tarnish his reputation. Yet, she felt obligated to act. It was a classic case of selfish rationalization¡ªdoing what benefited her while justifying it with noble-sounding reasons. If she didn¡¯t want to do it, then why do it at all? But if she chose to go through with it, then she should fully commit. Instead, she wavered, stuck in a constant inner conflict, presenting herself as a delicate and selfish little princess. Still... ¡°Sure,¡± Shia said with a kind smile, accepting the challenge eagerly. If Violet intended to use him as a stepping stone, then he would do the same. The clash between the top two freshmen quickly drew everyone¡¯s attention. Most of the freshmen stopped their own sparring matches to watch, their curiosity piqued by Shia, the unexpected first-place student. Shia, calm and collected, already had a plan. His ace was the reward he had earned earlier: the ''Relic of Pure White Conception'', a reward from breaking the record on the third floor of the Divine Grace Clock Tower. The blank cardholder in his hand radiated an air of mystery as Shia spun it idly, his confident smile giving nothing away. ''Pure White Conception'' was an E-rank relic with A-rank potential. It was designed to interact with the laws of reality, granting its user the ability to construct small-scale rules through engraved cards. This power was groundbreaking¡ªit allowed even ordinary people to wield the power of law, something typically reserved for high-level experts. The relic¡¯s concept was revolutionary, but its application was extremely limited. The rules it could construct were minute, barely scratching the surface of the countless laws governing the world. Moreover, creating rules required rigorous logical consistency, and higher-tier rules became increasingly restrictive. For example, it couldn¡¯t let a baby instantly kill a high-ranking warrior¡ªsuch a rule would violate the fundamental balance of reality. Because of these limitations, Pure White Conception was often dismissed as impractical. But Shia knew better. Instead of overreaching, he crafted a simple rule on the first card: Call Me Daddy. The card glowed with a gray-white rune, embodying the essence of the law. The trigger condition? When someone attempted to attack him, he only needed to say, ¡°Can¡¯t you at least call me Daddy?¡± This would activate the card¡¯s effect, compelling the target to call him as their daddy. And once that was established, wasn¡¯t showing respect to one¡¯s daddy only natural? Perhaps even bowing and saluting? On the stage, Violet appeared in her combat attire: a silver-white battle suit made of tough sharkskin leather, perfectly outlining her figure. Her tall, athletic build and high ponytail of silver hair exuded a commanding aura. Her long legs were clad in white stockings, paired with silver boots, completing an outfit that seemed designed to captivate. It was less a combat uniform and more a bold statement, oozing a tantalizing allure. Shia, inwardly amused by her appearance, kept his expression neutral. Standing two meters apart, Violet faced him, her face filled with confidence. Chapter 42: The Consequence of Disrespecting Your daddy Chapter 42: The Consequence of Disrespecting Your daddy She was confident. One strike would be enough to take down Shia. After all, with her strength, dealing with an ordinary person was hardly a challenge. Yet, she hesitated. "Shia, if you surrender now and give up the position of number 1, it''s still not too late," said Violet, her voice crisp and commanding, brimming with arrogance. This was her final act of mercy. Otherwise, if she struck and caused serious injury or worse, it would be an unpleasant sight. "Oh? And why would I give up?" Shia remained indifferent to the princess''s threat. "If that''s how you feel, I''ll give you one last chance..." Before the words left his mouth, Violet''s eyes flashed with cold light, and she launched herself toward Shia. If you refuse the way out I offered, then don¡¯t blame me for being ruthless! The tall battle goddess, clad in white stockings, transformed into a silver streak, swift as a shooting star. The crowd of students watching was awestruck. Such speed, such overwhelming power¡ªthis was Princess Violet? Shia shrugged, his expression tinged with helplessness. He had wanted to give her a chance, but she didn''t take it. Unhurried, Shia activated his "Call daddy Card." "Wouldn''t you even call me ''Daddy'' once?" His voice carried a trace of regret and resignation. At that very moment, Violet''s figure froze. Her sword stopped just a step away from Shia.This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version. And then, unexpectedly, she blurted out: "Daddy!" The word left her lips, and Violet''s eyes widened in disbelief. What just happened? Was that my voice? Her body was entirely out of her control! What sorcery is this? Shia smiled, though he said nothing. The satisfaction in his eyes was unmistakable. This simplest application of rules carried no physical harm but packed an unparalleled sense of humiliation. Seeing Shia''s expression, Violet quickly understood. Clearly, this bizarre situation was his doing. Her face flushed red, anger surging. To call her opponent such a name in the middle of a duel¡ªit was devastating. Especially for Violet, who had lost her father at a young age. The word "Daddy" held a sacred meaning for her. And now, to be forced to address someone she despised in such a way? She wanted nothing more than to run Shia through with her sword. In those fleeting moments, Violet¡¯s mind raced with countless plans for revenge. Defeat him in one move? No. She wanted to make him wish he¡¯d never been born. But the stronger her hatred and desire to kill Shia became, the more her body refused to obey her. The force of pure logic manipulation ensured that anyone who disrespected the "daddy" would call him "Daddy" and bow deeply. The more Violet resisted, the stronger the binding force became. How could anyone be disrespectful to their daddy? If looks could kill, Shia would have been reduced to ashes by now. The rage and killing intent burning within her only tightened the rule''s grip. Her body refused to listen. No, it wasn¡¯t that her body couldn¡¯t move¡ªit was that her actions were completely out of her control! Now, the next stage of the rule was triggered¡ªshe had to bow deeply to her "daddy." Violet gritted her teeth, almost hard enough to shatter them. But her proud head gradually lowered, her slender waist bending bit by bit. Her silver hair cascaded down, concealing her flushed face. Across the barrier of the arena¡¯s protective shield, the audience could only see the proud princess bowing respectfully to Shia. The crowd erupted. Thanks to the soundproofing of the barrier, they had no idea what had just transpired. What on earth was happening? Violet, who had transformed into a silver streak and launched a stunning assault, suddenly froze. At first, they thought the princess had shown mercy. But then she completely abandoned her attack and even bowed to Shia? If the sound barrier hadn¡¯t been in place, and if they had heard Violet call Shia "Daddy," the uproar would have been unimaginable. Amid the confusion, an excited voice suddenly rang out. "I get it!" Everyone turned to look. A short-haired, cute girl was positively glowing with excitement. She clenched her fist and struck her palm, radiating energy. "It''s *The Aura*!" Her expression was dead serious, her voice steady and confident. Though she explained, the crowd remained puzzled. What on earth was that? The short-haired girl eagerly elaborated. "Legend has it that powerful warriors exude an aura that overwhelms their opponents, making them feel insurmountable and even submit unconsciously." "Such warriors are one in a million. If I hadn¡¯t seen it with my own eyes, I would¡¯ve thought it was just a myth." The crowd buzzed as realization dawned. This place, the Seven Shields Academy, truly hid countless masters. If not for studying here, they would never have believed such things existed in the world. Unbeknownst to them, while the audience was concocting their own explanations, Shia was contently watching Violet bow before him¡ªa silver-haired beauty in white stockings, exuding elegance despite her humiliation. For all the lofty theories the crowd could invent, the reality was simple: This is what happens when you disrespect your "daddy." Violet gritted her teeth in frustration, her body still bent. She had noticed the faint glow from Shia''s hand earlier. Hmph, just a cheap trick. She was sure Shia wouldn¡¯t be able to maintain it for long. Once the effect wore off, she¡¯d make him regret ever crossing her. No mercy. None. Shia tilted his head slightly, noticing the fiery hatred in Violet¡¯s eyes. He chuckled softly. Your stubbornness is almost endearing, he thought. He pulled out his phone and began recording. ¡°What did you just call me?¡± he asked. ¡°Daddy,¡± she replied automatically, the words flowing smoothly. Violet¡¯s shame deepened as her body continued to betray her, forcing her into submission. If only she could, she¡¯d sew her own lips shut. Satisfied with his recording, Shia grinned. "Well, here''s the thing. With a video like this..." He turned the phone screen to Violet, showing the footage of her obediently calling him "Daddy." "How many people do you think should see it?" Chapter 43: In the End, It Was All Your Choice Chapter 43: In the End, It Was All Your Choice Shia¡¯s voice carried a hint of amusement, but his words were devilishly malicious. How could something like this be seen by others!? Violet was utterly distraught, her royal dignity hanging by a thread. If that video got out, her reputation would be in tatters. She struggled, desperately trying to free herself from the control using sheer willpower. But the more she resisted, the tighter the rule¡¯s grip became. Unless¡ she acknowledged Shia as her daddy. But for a proud princess, one who held her royal status so highly, how could she ever accept such a thing? This level of humiliation was beyond the pale. Did he think this artifact was just a joke? As each second ticked by, Violet felt the oppressive force on her growing stronger, with no signs of abating. She could almost hear the whispers of those watching beyond the soundproof barrier. Now, real panic set in for Violet. She couldn¡¯t possibly stay in this humiliating position forever, nor keep calling him by such a sacred title. Finally, the proud and self-assured princess showed a rare glimmer of vulnerability in her eyes. "What do you want from me, Daddy?" "I concede, okay? Daddy..." Conceding should be enough, right? But Shia only smiled enigmatically, wagging his finger. "Conceding would¡¯ve been fine. I gave you that chance earlier." "Now? Too late." Violet¡¯s heart filled with frustration and bitterness, her eyes brimming with unshed tears. Shia smiled again, this time with a tinge of mock kindness. "There¡¯s a price now." "What... do you want me to do, you despicable¡ªDaddy!"This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. Violet''s voice trembled with anger and despair, yet she had no choice but to endure. "Well then, Princess, be a good girl and make me happy~," Shia said, squatting down in front of her with a seemingly earnest expression. To an outsider, it might have even looked like ''he'' was the one being coerced. Violet¡¯s mind was in shambles. But now, completely under Shia¡¯s control, she had no options left but to comply. With no other choice, she finally gave in. "I realize my mistake... Daddy." "Hmm?" "I apologize for my earlier disrespect. Please forgive me, Daddy." Her soft, pitiful tone seemed on the verge of tears. Her silver armor, which tightly outlined her shapely figure, trembled slightly as she bent forward again. This time, though, it wasn¡¯t the rule forcing her¡ªit was her own submission. The shame and humiliation swirled inside her, almost unbearable. As a princess, she had never suffered such indignity. "Will you behave properly next time?" Shia asked, his tone casual. "There won¡¯t be a next time... Daddy," Violet replied, her ears burning red with embarrassment. Her silver hair framed her flushed face, the redness intensifying against her pale complexion. But despite herself, every word she uttered still ended with "Daddy." She didn¡¯t want this. But she had no choice. It was completely out of her control. And it only made things worse. Shia looked at her obedient demeanor, her eyes slightly teary as she trembled like a kitten. She truly seemed like someone who¡¯d been bullied relentlessly but still tried to stay composed. At last, Shia nodded. "Fine. Since it¡¯s your first offense, I¡¯ll reluctantly forgive your disrespect this time." Violet, who had always used her lofty principles as a shield, now found herself trapped in her own contradictions. The initial calls of "Daddy" and the bowing had been forced by the rules. Wasn¡¯t it fitting? Shia thought of himself as a saint, going to such lengths to teach her a valuable lesson. With Shia¡¯s forgiveness granted, Violet collapsed to the ground, her limbs weak and unresponsive. The suppression she had felt moments ago had finally lifted, freeing her from that waking nightmare. The result of the battle was clear without the need for further explanation. Although the fight was over, everyone watching was still in a daze. Was it really over? Did Princess Violet just¡ lose like that? The students, witnessing this kind of "battle" for the first time, were baffled. Their gazes toward Shia, however, unconsciously filled with reverence. To them, strong individuals were to be admired, even worshipped. Shia had already earned respect for his position in the freshman rankings, but seeing him defeat Violet without even lifting a finger only solidified his mystique. When the protective shield and sound barrier disappeared, the crowd finally saw Shia standing over Violet, saying something. "The rule¡¯s effect only lasted a minute. Everything after that... was entirely your choice." Shia smiled as he kindly revealed the truth to Violet. Violet looked up in shock, her gaze filled with disbelief. Impossible! The cries of "Daddy," the apologies, and even her obedient gestures¡ Were they really her own doing? At that point, the rules had already ceased to function. If she had simply moved her fingers, she could have easily defeated him and reclaimed her rightful position as the top freshman! No! That couldn¡¯t be true! Shia¡¯s smile deepened. "How could I let the esteemed princess remain in the dark? Naturally, I had to tell you the truth. Don¡¯t you agree, Violet?" Her eyes went blank as she sat there, completely defeated, her mind overwhelmed. Her royal dignity, her pride, and even her sense of self¡ all shattered. She had actually been tricked into willingly pleasing him! Regret flooded her heart. Only a minute. If she had just held on a little longer. Even a few more seconds. She would¡¯ve had the chance to counterattack. Instead, she had chosen to submit to her opponent, apologizing and flattering him! Shia, in a cheerful mood, laughed lightly before turning to leave. The crowd, still full of questions, could only watch him go. They had seen the movements but heard nothing of what was said. What had happened between the two of them? Judging by the princess¡¯s state, it must¡¯ve been something incredible. But Shia had no intention of explaining anything to them. He walked away with a swagger, his figure exuding an air of villainous arrogance. For Violet, every thought of Shia¡¯s final words was like a dagger to her chest. If only she had held on. If only she hadn¡¯t made that choice. She wanted to tear him apart. Her humiliation and defeat had been sealed, made worse by the cunning and shameless methods he used. For someone as proud as Violet, this was the ultimate disgrace. After all, she had grown up sheltered, unscarred by the world¡¯s cruelty. And so, she had no way to process this humiliation. It was only natural. But no matter how much anger she felt, Violet couldn¡¯t act on it¡ªnot now. Her top priority was dealing with the recording in Shia¡¯s possession. That video must never be allowed to spread. It was a ticking time bomb, an ever-present threat to her dignity. But how could she get it back? That shameless bastard certainly wouldn¡¯t hand it over willingly. He had already resorted to such underhanded tactics¡ªwhy would he give up his leverage? Biting her lip, Violet¡¯s mind turned to a certain figure. She thought of someone¡ªsomeone she could trust. A tall, golden-haired older sister. Chapter 44: Do Decent People Really Get Off to Photos? Chapter 44: Do Decent People Really Get Off to Photos? Shia¡¯s voice carried a hint of mischief, but his words were laden with a devilish undertone. Violet bit her lip, replaying Lilith¡¯s earlier words in her mind: "If Shia ever steps out of line, you¡¯re free to discipline him however you see fit. Don¡¯t worry about saving face for me." Recalling the disdain Lilith had shown toward Shia, Violet couldn¡¯t help but smirk. A plan began forming in her mind. ''Fate has its way of intertwining heroines'' --- ¡°Lilith, someone¡¯s here to see you,¡± a voice called. The golden-haired elder sister looked up from her canvas, sunlight streaming through the window, casting a gentle glow over Violet, who stood at the entrance of the studio. The afternoon light highlighted her flawless figure and the way her white stockings hugged her long legs. Her delicate features seemed to shimmer, like a goddess descending to earth. For a brief moment, Lilith¡¯s eyes flickered with admiration. Violet rarely asked others for help, and now her smile carried a rare bashfulness, tinged with hesitation. ¡°Lilith, I¡ I need your help with something.¡± Her gaze darted away, as though embarrassed. The two stood under the shade of a massive tree, its towering branches casting a cool shadow over the ground. Lilith reached out, gently taking Violet¡¯s hand, her lips curling into a warm smile. ¡°What is it, Violet? Whatever it is, you can count on me.¡± A faint blush crept across Violet¡¯s ears. This wasn¡¯t easy for her. ¡°Well¡ Shia has been¡ bullying me. Could you help me teach him a lesson?¡± ¡°Of course! Leave it to me!¡± Though Violet¡¯s explanation was vague, Lilith didn¡¯t hesitate to agree.Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. ''Disciplining my little puppy? That¡¯s child¡¯s play!'' she thought gleefully. To her, this was the perfect opportunity to earn some goodwill. Lilith¡¯s bright eyes sparkled with enthusiasm as she lightly patted Violet¡¯s soft hand. ¡°If you¡¯ve come to me, then your problem is my problem. I promise, I¡¯ll take care of it.¡± Violet¡¯s face lit up with gratitude, her smile growing more genuine. --- Meanwhile, Shia¡¯s phone buzzed. The caller ID displayed an unfamiliar number, with no server location. ¡°Guess who it is, little one?¡± purred a sultry voice on the other end. ¡°Headmistress,¡± Shia replied flatly, his tone devoid of surprise. Diana, the headmistress, pouted on the other end. ¡°How did you guess so quickly? No sense of fun.¡± Her disappointment was evident. She had hoped for at least a little suspense. ¡°Your new residence has been arranged. Go check it out,¡± she said in a playful tone. Shia¡¯s lips curled slightly at the mention of the accommodation he¡¯d been promised. ¡°Understood. I¡¯ll take a look.¡± --- Diana had gone all out, arranging a luxurious villa perched atop a mountain with a breathtaking view of the academy. The classic round-roof design, paired with its modern white finish, perfectly blended contemporary and medieval aesthetics. This wasn¡¯t just a villa¡ªit was a sanctuary. The area boasted an array of magical enhancements: increased elemental density, climate control, and privacy protections. Even the most privileged nobles had never experienced such opulence. This place, known as the ¡°Goddess¡¯s Secret Garden,¡± housed only the academy¡¯s most dazzling female figures. Until now, that is¡ªShia¡¯s presence as the sole male occupant might just tarnish the garden¡¯s pristine reputation. Crossing the shimmering barrier into the villa grounds, Shia felt as though he had stepped into another world. The serene landscape, surrounded by mountains and water, resembled a scene straight out of a dream. As he explored the villa, he couldn¡¯t help but admire its lavish yet understated design. When he reached his bedroom, however, something unexpected caught his eye. Scattered across the bed were photos. Curious, Shia stepped closer. The photos were of a black-haired beauty, her seductive poses and allure captured in stunning detail. Her sultry eyes stared back at him, framed by long lashes and paired with a faintly smug tilt of her chin. Her luscious red lips parted slightly, exuding a tantalizing heat. Her shapely legs, encased in sheer black stockings, bent gracefully, revealing just enough of her full thighs to spark desire. The faint sheen of her stockings made it seem as though her skin glowed beneath them. The most striking photo featured her propped-up legs, her thighs teasingly pressed together, framing her voluptuous chest. The contrast of her delicate figure and bold poses was a masterclass in sensuality. Her crimson eyes seemed to speak directly to him: ¡°Go ahead, do whatever you want~.¡± It was the pinnacle of seductive purity¡ªan invitation cloaked in innocence. Just as Shia picked up one of the photos, his phone rang again. ¡°Did you like my little gift?¡± Diana¡¯s playful, honeyed voice purred through the receiver. Shia flipped through the photos casually, his tone indifferent. ¡°It¡¯s¡ okay.¡± After all, they were just pictures. Without the real thing in front of him, they lacked a certain impact. Diana¡¯s pout was practically audible through the phone. ¡°Just okay? Shouldn¡¯t you at least compliment me? I went out of my way to take those for you!¡± Her disappointment was evident¡ªshe had expected him to be more enthusiastic. This little brat was entirely too indifferent for her liking. --- At the same time, Lilith had already prepared herself for confrontation. When Shia opened the door to his new home, he was met with the sight of his "fianc¨¦e" standing with her arms crossed, looking every bit like an interrogator. ¡°You¡¯re back,¡± Lilith said coldly. Shia raised a brow at her frosty demeanor. It wasn¡¯t like her. Usually, she would sweet-talk him to keep him under her thumb. ¡°Yeah,¡± he replied just as coolly, brushing past her to head to his room. Before he could take another step, the sound of shattering glass rang out, stopping him in his tracks. ¡°Speak! What exactly did you do to Violet!?¡± Lilith demanded, her eyes sharp as daggers. Her tone left no room for argument¡ªit was as if she were interrogating a criminal. All that was missing was a sign behind her reading: "Confess and you¡¯ll be spared; resist and you¡¯ll be punished." Shia sighed, already understanding the situation. Violet, unable to deal with him directly, had clearly run to Lilith for help. ''Really? Can¡¯t handle me, so you run to the "fianc¨¦e" for backup? Talk about underhanded.'' Chapter 45: Was It on Purpose or an Accident? Chapter 45: Was It on Purpose or an Accident? If Violet had come to Shia directly, demanding the recording in a straightforward and dignified manner, he might have respected her more. But running to Lilith, essentially tattling like a child? Shameful as it was, he had to admit it was effective. ¡°I didn¡¯t do anything,¡± Shia said coldly, his tone dripping with sarcasm. ¡°She challenged me, and when she couldn¡¯t handle losing, this is what happens.¡± Lilith glared at him, her eyes icy and unyielding. The playful, sunny demeanor she usually showed was gone. Dressed in a crimson dress that hugged her figure, sheer black stockings that accentuated her long legs, and high heels that added to her commanding aura, she exuded the menace of a merciless femme fatale. In that moment, she didn¡¯t look like his fianc¨¦e but more like an executioner prepared to crush him under her heels. ¡°Hmph. Still making excuses?¡± she sneered. ¡°I¡¯ll give you one last chance: either you come with me and apologize to Violet, or you leave this house for good!¡± Her ultimatum was sharp and cutting. She didn¡¯t even bother asking for an explanation or caring about who was right or wrong. It didn¡¯t matter. Shia was always the one expected to bow his head. Shia¡¯s face remained expressionless as he met her gaze. ¡°And if I don¡¯t?¡± ¡°Then you leave.¡± Lilith¡¯s voice was as cold as ice, her expression unflinching. Shia chuckled dryly, though there was no humor in it. ¡°Fine. Fine. Fine.¡± He turned without another word and headed toward his room. ¡°Where are you going?¡± Lilith snapped, her voice sharp as a blade.Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings. A powerful magical aura pressed down on him, but Shia acted as though he didn¡¯t notice. Without turning around, he replied flatly, ¡°To pack. I¡¯m leaving.¡± This house had never felt like home. The maids treated him like dirt, emboldened by Lilith¡¯s blatant disregard for him. Even Tia, who was technically below him in status, had the audacity to look down on him. All of this stemmed from Lilith¡¯s attitude. As his fianc¨¦e, she didn¡¯t care about his dignity. And now, because he refused to apologize for something that wasn¡¯t even his fault, she was ready to throw him out without a second thought. Was the conflict with Violet his fault? No. She had challenged him. She had lost. But Lilith didn¡¯t care. Shia knew better than to expect fairness from her. Once, this might have been a disaster. The Seven Shields Academy provided meals but not free accommodations, and the housing prices were extravagant, tailored for nobles and royals. For someone like Shia, who came from nothing, living here had only been possible because of his engagement to Lilith. Lilith was banking on this. She was confident he wouldn¡¯t risk being homeless. Who could endure living on the streets? But this time, things were different. Unbeknownst to her, Shia had already secured a luxurious villa arranged by the academy. He had planned to leave this place anyway. His return now was simply to collect his belongings. ¡°Bang!¡± The sound of the door slamming echoed through the house as Shia left without hesitation. Lilith blinked, momentarily stunned. She hadn¡¯t expected him to be so decisive. In her mind, he was supposed to come crawling back within minutes. But Shia had no intention of crawling back. --- The villa perched atop the mountain was breathtaking. Surrounded by serene natural beauty, it boasted panoramic views of the lake and forest below. The three-story structure was a marvel of luxury: a rooftop sunroom perfect for soaking up sunlight, a massive pool, and a lush garden that could host any gathering. The villa was equipped with state-of-the-art magical security systems, ensuring both privacy and safety. Every checkpoint opened automatically for Shia, recognizing his identity. Entering the villa, Shia admired its grandeur. But as he stepped inside, a sudden sense of unease washed over him. ''Something¡¯s wrong.'' Before he could react, a shadow flickered in the corner of his eye. Then, without warning, his vision went dark, and a soft, suffocating pressure enveloped his face. The sensation was all too familiar. Diana, the academy¡¯s headmistress, had been waiting for him. With a sly grin, she pulled him into a smothering embrace, pressing his face deep into her ample breasts. The warmth and softness overwhelmed him, the intoxicating scent of her perfume flooding his senses. ¡°Admit your mistake, and I¡¯ll spare your life,¡± she teased, her voice dripping with playful arrogance. Her tone might have been teasing, but her actions were anything but. The sheer size of her "punishment" completely engulfed his face, leaving him struggling for air and unable to move. Desperate, Shia flailed his arms, his hands unintentionally grabbing onto her hips. His fingers grazed the curve of her ass, causing her to shiver slightly. ¡°Mmmnh~!¡± Diana let out a soft, startled moan, her sultry voice laced with a hint of something more. The sudden, unintentional squeeze sent a ripple of sensation through her, leaving her momentarily stunned. Her body reacted instinctively, her posture arching slightly as she processed the unexpected touch. ''Was that on purpose? Or an accident?'' she wondered, her crimson eyes narrowing as she glanced down at him. Finally, she released him, allowing Shia to gasp for air. His face was flushed a deep red, equal parts from suffocation and the intensity of the moment. Diana tilted her head, her full lips curving into a sly smile as her gaze lingered on him. ¡°You¡¯re lucky I¡¯m feeling generous today,¡± she said, though the faint flush on her own cheeks betrayed her usual composure. Shia, still catching his breath, avoided her eyes, his mind swirling with the memory of the soft curves and the lingering warmth. He knew better than to provoke her further. Yet in the back of his mind, he couldn¡¯t shake the question: ''Was she here to punish me, or just to play with me?'' Chapter 46: The Headmistress Gets Stuffed Full Chapter 46: The Headmistress Gets Stuffed Full The oppressive aura of Diana, the headmistress, was overwhelming. While soft and fragrant, Shia still preferred situations where he had the upper hand. ¡°Hmph~.¡± Diana snorted lightly, turning as if to leave. It seemed her purpose here had only been to give Shia a lesson. ¡°Headmistress, leaving already? Wouldn¡¯t it be an honor if I could host you, prepare a meal to show my gratitude?¡± Shia asked with a dazzling smile, his handsome face radiating charm that seemed to captivate older women like her. Diana paused mid-step, glancing at him sideways. ¡°Since you¡¯re being so polite, I suppose I¡¯ll humor you,¡± she replied, her lips curving slightly. ¡°But mind you, my tastes are very refined. If your cooking isn¡¯t up to par, don¡¯t blame me for scolding you.¡± Without a word, Shia turned and headed to the kitchen. His culinary skills had always been decent, but with his recently maxed-out cooking level, he had reached a new pinnacle. Slicing, flipping, plating¡ªit was a seamless dance. Diana, leaning against the counter with her arms crossed under her ample chest, watched in stunned silence. ''Is he cooking or performing some kind of magical act?'' When the dish was finally served, her initial astonishment faded into skepticism. The dish in question, a steaming plate of red and white tofu, didn¡¯t look particularly appetizing to her. ¡°This is called Mapo Tofu,¡± Shia explained, placing a bowl of rice and a pair of chopsticks before her. ¡°Care to try it?¡±Unauthorized tale usage: if you spot this story on Amazon, report the violation. Diana raised an eyebrow, poking at the tofu with her chopsticks in an almost dismissive manner. ¡°Doesn¡¯t look all that impressive,¡± she muttered. ¡°Looks can be deceiving. You won¡¯t know until you try,¡± Shia replied, exuding confidence. ¡°Please. I¡¯ve lived for centuries. What haven¡¯t I tasted?¡± Diana scoffed but ultimately took a small piece and brought it to her lips. The moment the tofu touched her tongue, her expression changed. The intense numbing and spicy sensation hit her like a wave. Her eyes widened as the flavor exploded in her mouth. It was fiery, addictive, and utterly irresistible. Despite the heat, she found herself taking another bite, and another, unable to stop. Before long, Diana had finished an entire bowl of rice and moved on to a second. Shia, leaning back with his fingers interlocked, watched her with a smirk. ''So much for ¡°not impressive.¡±'' By the time Diana finished her third bowl, she finally stopped, her elegant demeanor returning. But as she looked at the empty dishes before her, a faint embarrassment flickered across her face. ''How did I eat this much?'' She had made such a show of her refined tastes earlier, only to devour the food like a ravenous beast. Regaining her composure, she dabbed at her lips with a napkin and placed her chopsticks down gracefully. Before she could speak, Shia slid another dish toward her. ¡°Red bean shaved ice,¡± he announced, his tone casual. The dessert, a glossy mixture of dark red and purple hues in a crystal-clear glass bowl, looked incredibly refreshing. Diana eyed it skeptically. ¡°What is this? I¡¯ve never seen it before.¡± ¡°It¡¯s a dessert. Try it.¡± Curiosity eventually got the better of her. She scooped a small bite and placed it in her mouth. The sweetness and coolness of the shaved ice spread across her palate, completely washing away the lingering spice of the tofu. The red bean paste was soft and creamy, perfectly complementing the finely crushed ice that melted effortlessly on her tongue. ¡°Delicious,¡± Diana murmured, her eyes lighting up. Without another word, she finished the dessert with an elegance that contrasted sharply with the enthusiasm she¡¯d shown earlier. When she finally looked up, her expression was conflicted. ¡°I must admit, your cooking is¡ decent,¡± she said, her tone begrudging. ¡°Decent enough to keep you coming back?¡± Shia teased, leaning forward slightly with a sly smile. Diana¡¯s crimson eyes narrowed. ¡°Hmph. I suppose I could accompany you for meals. After all, it wouldn¡¯t do for you to eat alone all the time.¡± ¡°So you¡¯re just here to ¡®keep me company¡¯ and not to freeload?¡± ¡°Of course,¡± Diana replied haughtily, flipping her hair over her shoulder. ¡°But¡ if money is an issue, I can pay for the meals.¡± Shia smirked. ¡°Oh? And what¡¯s your currency of choice?¡± Diana leaned in closer, her lips curving into a teasing smile. Twirling a strand of her hair around her finger, she whispered, ¡°Would my body suffice?¡± --- Meanwhile, back at Lilith¡¯s house, the mood was entirely different. Lilith, confident in her authority, was patiently waiting for Shia to come crawling back, begging for forgiveness. Ten minutes passed. No knock came at her door. ¡°Hmph. Stubborn as always,¡± she muttered, brushing off her mild irritation as she returned to her room. She wasn¡¯t worried. Shia had no other options. He¡¯d come back eventually. The following morning, sunlight streamed through the windows, but the house remained eerily quiet. ¡°Did he return last night?¡± Lilith asked Tia. ¡°No, ma¡¯am,¡± Tia replied. Frowning, Lilith opened her door and stepped outside. The empty courtyard was devoid of any signs of life. Not even a stray dog wandered by. Lilith¡¯s frown deepened. ¡°Where could he have gone? He has no money and no connections.¡± The thought of Shia finding shelter elsewhere seemed absurd. Who would take him in? That left only one possibility: he had slept on the streets. ¡°Serves him right,¡± Lilith huffed, though a small part of her couldn¡¯t help but feel uneasy. ''That idiot. Where could he have gone?'' Chapter 47: The Headmistress Feeds Shia. the Succubus Princess Homeless Chapter 47: The Headmistress Feeds Shia. the Succubus Princess Homeless Lilith sighed as she contemplated her absent fianc¨¦. ''All he had to do was apologize, and he would¡¯ve had a place to stay. Why go to such extremes?'' The thought of Shia choosing to sleep on the streets rather than bow his head left her incredulous. But her confidence was shattered soon after. Having not seen Shia return all night, Lilith decided to check his classroom. Being a top senior student, she had easy access to the lecture halls for first-year students. However, upon arriving, she discovered he wasn¡¯t there. ¡°Shia submitted a leave request. He won¡¯t be attending theory classes this morning,¡± the instructor informed her. Lilith forced a polite smile before leaving, her thoughts churning. ''Why isn¡¯t he attending classes? Where did he go last night?'' As these questions circled her mind, she happened to glance to the side while walking home and saw a familiar figure. Lilith froze, her steps halting abruptly. The tall, dark-haired boy with a strikingly handsome face was unmistakably Shia. He was holding a bag, walking leisurely in the opposite direction. Lilith¡¯s first instinct was to call out to him, but she stopped as she realized where he was headed. In front of Shia was a pale blue protective barrier. Without hesitation, he walked through it as the gate swung open to admit him. Lilith stood frozen, watching in stunned silence as the gate closed behind him. There was only one place beyond that gate. ''The Goddess¡¯s Secret Garden?'' Her jaw dropped in disbelief.You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version. ''How could this be possible?'' Rubbing her eyes as if trying to clear a mirage, Lilith stared again in the direction where Shia had disappeared. ''Was I hallucinating? Did I mistake him for someone else? No¡ that was definitely Shia.'' A swirl of emotions overtook her¡ªconfusion, shock, and disbelief. ''Why was Shia entering that place?'' Without hesitation, Lilith turned on her heel and headed for the gated community. But entry to the Goddess¡¯s Secret Garden wasn¡¯t granted to just anyone. She was promptly denied access. The area¡¯s security system was absolute. Without registered resident information or explicit permission from a villa owner, there was no way in. Frustrated, Lilith pulled out her phone and called Shia. No answer. Undeterred, she sent a visit request through the system, knowing it would alert him. Inside the villa, Shia glanced at the notification. Lilith. ''Not interested,'' he thought, dismissing the request with a single swipe of his hand. ¡°Ah, open wide,¡± a warm, magnetic voice interrupted his thoughts. Turning his attention, Shia saw a piece of glistening braised pork held by a pair of chopsticks, offered inches from his mouth. Following the chopsticks, his gaze landed on Diana. Her jet-black hair cascaded elegantly over her shoulders, and her crimson eyes sparkled with a playful glint. Her luscious lips curved into a smile as she held the chopsticks in one hand, her other hand lightly supporting them from below. Her every movement exuded a sultry grace that could make hearts race. Shia, unfazed by her allure, leaned forward and bit into the offered pork. His thoughts, however, were less complimentary. ''Does this woman have no sense of being a guest? Coming to freeload and then acting like this?'' Diana, on the other hand, was thoroughly enjoying herself. Watching him obediently eat what she offered filled her with a strange sense of satisfaction. ''Look at how well-behaved this little guy is,'' she thought, her heart swelling with misplaced maternal affection. She even found herself fantasizing about making him her child. ¡°Headmistress, I can feed myself,¡± Shia finally said, his tone resigned. ¡°Hush,¡± Diana replied with a playful pout. ¡°You invited me to eat, and I said I¡¯d repay you with my body.¡± The double entendre hung in the air as she continued picking up food and offering it to him. Shia turned his head, attempting to refuse. Diana¡¯s gaze sharpened slightly, silently commanding him to accept the next bite. Shia sighed. ''What else can I do? Resistance is futile.'' He reluctantly opened his mouth for the next morsel. --- At the gates of the Goddess¡¯s Secret Garden, Lilith remained rooted to the spot, staring at the barrier. She hadn¡¯t truly expected her request to go through, but the fact that it even allowed a notification to be sent confirmed her worst fear. Shia was indeed inside. ''How did he gain access?'' Her mind raced with questions. ''If he lives there, does that mean I can use this as an opportunity to meet others in the Garden?'' Caught up in her thoughts, she didn¡¯t realize how long she had been standing there until her legs began to ache. The occasional passerby glanced her way, their curiosity evident. The Goddess¡¯s Secret Garden was an exclusive space, and those who could enter were admired and envied. But Lilith, stuck on the outside, felt nothing but awkwardness. ''If I could just get inside, I¡¯d bask in their admiration. But standing here like this...'' Her solitary figure at the gates invited nothing but pity and humiliation. --- Elsewhere, someone else truly faced homelessness. ¡°Miss, you need to leave,¡± the librarian said firmly. Rong looked up blankly, still immersed in the book she had been reading. It took the cold breeze outside the library to jolt her back to reality. Shivering slightly, she hugged herself. Since the freshman ranking battles, Rong had been keeping a low profile. She skipped theory classes, avoided practical training, and buried herself in the library, researching ways for succubi to develop combat-oriented professions. Two days of scouring ancient texts had yielded nothing. ''Succubi are inherently fragile beings, dependent on life essence. What combat professions could they possibly have?'' ''Or... does ¡°bedroom combat¡± count as combat?'' Rong shook her head violently, banishing the thought. ''No way. I won¡¯t stoop to that!'' With a resigned sigh, she trudged away from the library, still no closer to a solution. For now, all she had gained was the knowledge that her tribe¡¯s inherent weakness had no easy fix. ''What now?'' she thought, clutching her book as she gazed at the empty streets. ''Where can I go?'' Chapter 48: The Succubus Princess is Tricked Onto the Pirate Ship (1) Chapter 48: The Succubus Princess is Tricked Onto the Pirate Ship (1) It was only now that Rong realized as a new student, she was allowed just two days per week¡ª48 hours in total¡ªinside the library. For most students, this was plenty of time, as few ever used up their limit. But for Rong, she had been kicked out after maxing it out. Standing outside the library, she stared blankly for a moment before an alarming realization hit her. ''I don¡¯t have a place to stay!'' At Seven Shields Academy, accommodations were notoriously expensive, and unfortunately, her funds were nearly nonexistent. Her original plan had been to practically live in the library. She figured she could endure it, sleeping in short spurts when necessary, and continue researching ways to make her succubus race more combat-effective. But she had never expected the library to have time limits. Her earlier confidence now seemed laughable, and she had no choice but to face the consequences of her shortsightedness. While the realm of ''Dreamland'' was incredibly wealthy, as the princess of the succubus race, Rong had fled from there. She had no access to any surplus funds. Now, unable to afford housing, she was effectively homeless. She eventually found herself sitting by Crescent Lake in a nearby park, lost in thought. Around her, other students were in groups, laughing and chatting. Some pairs strolled together, basking in the romantic atmosphere of the lake. Rong, however, sat alone on a bench, hugging her knees as the beautiful scenery around her only emphasized her solitude. As the sun dipped lower in the sky, the other students dispersed. Some went to dinner, others returned home. The breeze blowing across the lake grew cooler, sending ripples across the water¡¯s surface. Rong shivered slightly, shrinking into herself as the chill seeped into her bones.The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings. By the time twilight arrived, Rong looked every bit the picture of loneliness¡ªa petite figure curled up on the edge of a bench, hiding her face in her arms. Her heart twisted with self-reproach. ''I should have listened to Shia.'' ¡°You¡¯ll regret this,¡± he had said to her before. And now, she truly did regret it. She had hoped that just getting into Seven Shields Academy would be enough. Disguised and low-profile, she had planned to slip through unnoticed. But now, with no recognition for her achievements in the legendary dungeon and ranked at the bottom of her class, she had access to minimal resources. Barely able to afford food, let alone a place to stay, she felt utterly defeated. She thumped her head lightly with her fist, muttering curses at herself. ''Stupid, stupid, stupid!'' Footsteps approached, the sound growing louder. Under the glow of the streetlights, a shadow stretched across the ground, elongated and distorted by the dim light. Even though the figure was slightly warped, its upright and confident posture was unmistakable. Rong tensed, frozen in place, praying the person wouldn¡¯t notice her. ''You don¡¯t see me, you don¡¯t see me¡'' ¡°Yo, long time no see.¡± The familiar voice startled her. The speaker, a tall figure with a magnetic and calm tone, plopped down on the other side of the bench. Though he kept a bit of distance, the sound of his voice made her freeze. She knew that voice. She had spoken to so few people since arriving that it was impossible to mistake it. Turning her head slightly, she saw Shia sitting casually at the other end of the bench, his handsome face illuminated by the streetlights. ¡°You¡¯re homeless, aren¡¯t you?¡± he said, his tone almost regretful. He hadn¡¯t just stumbled upon her by chance. Shia had been expecting this. No money, no ability to stay at the library¡ªof course, it would lead to this. Rong pursed her lips, refusing to respond. She turned her head back to the lake as if admiring the scenery, ignoring him entirely. ''I¡¯m not embarrassed. I¡¯m not embarrassed¡'' Rong tried to convince herself. But the truth was, her body was stiff and her limbs had gone numb from sitting too long in the chilly evening breeze. ¡°I could offer you a place to stay,¡± Shia said after a moment, his voice calm. Rong¡¯s ears perked up immediately, though she kept her head turned away, pretending not to hear him. ¡°I could use a maid,¡± Shia continued bluntly. ¡°How about working for me?¡± Hearing this, Rong snapped her head around, startled to find Shia¡¯s face mere inches from her own. She leaned back reflexively, her heart racing. ''A maid? Me?'' She was a succubus princess! How could she possibly become someone¡¯s maid? Even without her royal status, they were classmates. It was an absolutely absurd suggestion. She shook her head furiously, her dark hair flying as she refused. ¡°If you don¡¯t want to work, then how about just staying for free? My house is big enough,¡± Shia offered, his tone almost casual. Rong shook her head even harder. ''Accepting handouts? That would be humiliating! You¡¯re insulting my dignity!'' Shia sighed, leaning back against the bench as he stared at the lake. For a while, the two sat in silence, the lake¡¯s gentle waves and the chirping of insects filling the air. The scene was oddly peaceful, like that of two quiet lovers enjoying a date. Finally, Shia broke the silence. ¡°You don¡¯t want to work for me, and you don¡¯t want to take my offer to stay for free. Fine, I get it. But we¡¯ve been teammates before. I wouldn¡¯t have gotten where I am now without you.¡± ¡°I see you as a friend. I can¡¯t just leave you out here like this. How about you pay me rent?¡± The words hit like a bolt of lightning. Rong flinched, her face burning. If she had money, would she even be in this situation? Shia¡¯s words were a direct stab to her pride. ¡°Or¡¡± he began again. Rong finally spoke, her voice soft and hesitant. ¡°Could you¡ lend me some money?¡± Her cheeks flushed crimson as she forced the words out, feeling as though her face might burst into flames. Chapter 49: The Succubus Princess is Tricked Onto the Pirate Ship (2) Chapter 49: The Succubus Princess is Tricked Onto the Pirate Ship (2) ¡°How much is ¡®some money¡¯? Do you even know how expensive housing is at Seven Shields Academy?¡± Shia sighed, shaking his head slightly as if explaining the obvious. ¡°Let me break it down for you: even the most basic accommodations here cost several hundred gold coins per month.¡± ¡°I could lend it to you, sure. But how would you repay me?¡± Rong clamped her mouth shut. This time, it wasn¡¯t her social anxiety silencing her; she had nothing to say. Several hundred gold coins a month? How could she possibly earn that kind of money to repay him? Borrowing money without the ability to repay wasn¡¯t borrowing¡ªit was charity. And she couldn¡¯t accept that. In that moment, she realized just how powerless she was. She had no means of earning money, no skills to sell, and no plan to escape her predicament. Shia remained silent, giving her the time to weigh her options. She quickly saw that borrowing wasn¡¯t feasible, and the idea of living off charity was something her pride wouldn¡¯t allow. That left only one choice. ¡°I... I¡¯ll work for you,¡± Rong said quietly, lowering her head in defeat. Her voice carried a mix of resignation and bitterness. Shia shrugged with a smirk that seemed almost pitying. ¡°See? Wouldn¡¯t it have been easier if you¡¯d just agreed from the start?¡± Rong¡¯s tiny fangs pressed together as she ground her teeth. She wanted to bite him. But her cheeks were burning, her face redder than ever. Being caught homeless was embarrassing enough; having her only classmate witness it and tease her about it made it even worse. ¡°Come on,¡± Shia said, standing up and motioning for her to follow. ¡°Let¡¯s get you home.¡± He towered over her, his tall frame casting a shadow that completely enveloped her. The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there. By the time they reached Shia¡¯s villa, Rong¡¯s face was still flushed. But the sight of the building in front of her left her stunned, her crimson cheeks paling with shock. ¡°This is¡ your home?¡± Rong asked in disbelief, her voice faint. The sprawling villa was enormous, far larger than anything she had imagined. ¡°Living here must cost a fortune,¡± she murmured, almost to herself, her tone dreamy as though she were walking through a dream. ¡°It¡¯s an academy reward,¡± Shia replied casually as they walked through the courtyard. ¡°Our achievements broke records, remember? You would¡¯ve had a share too if you hadn¡¯t been so quick to give up. Trying to act cool, huh?¡± Rong¡¯s embarrassment surged again, her previous shock giving way to humiliation. She felt like she was being publicly scolded. She bit her lip to stifle the retort that threatened to escape her, her face practically glowing with shame. Shia chuckled softly but didn¡¯t push further. Instead, he led her on a tour of the villa, showing her the elegant living spaces, the spacious bedrooms, and the grand common areas. Despite the teasing, Shia maintained a level of respect for Rong. He understood her personality¡ªproud, determined, and fiercely independent. She wanted to carve her own path, even when it was difficult. Rong¡¯s resolve to find a way to stand on her own was a quality Shia admired. It was also what made her so easy to tease. As they sat down in the living room, Shia leaned forward slightly. ¡°You¡¯re the type who wouldn¡¯t settle for freeloading, aren¡¯t you?¡± Rong nodded solemnly, her expression firm. Of course, she couldn¡¯t accept charity. Her dignity wouldn¡¯t allow it. Even though she might have once had a rightful claim to the villa, she had forfeited that when she gave up her achievements. Her determination to earn her keep was precisely the trait Shia found most endearing¡ªand most entertaining to poke fun at. ¡°Let¡¯s reintroduce ourselves,¡± Shia said, extending his hand. ¡°I¡¯m Shia.¡± ¡°Rong,¡± she replied curtly, hesitant as she glanced at his outstretched hand. Social anxiety reared its head again. Rong wasn¡¯t fond of physical contact, but shaking hands seemed polite. Tentatively, she extended her own hand. Shia grasped her fingers lightly, giving them a brief shake before releasing them. ¡°Since you¡¯ve decided to work for me, let¡¯s start right away.¡± Standing, he retrieved a neatly folded maid uniform and placed it in her hands. Rong stared at the outfit, her head tilting slightly in suspicion. ¡°Why does it feel like you were expecting this?¡± she asked, her tone cautious. Shia laughed, brushing off her concerns. ¡°What are you talking about? Don¡¯t worry about the details.¡± Of course, he had expected it. Knowing she would end up on the streets, he had prepared in advance. The maid uniform had been ready for days. But saying that out loud might make him sound like a creep. Despite her earlier resolve, Rong hesitated. She stared at the black-and-white uniform, her lips pressed into a thin line as her internal struggle played out. Ten minutes later, Rong emerged wearing the outfit. The black leather flats highlighted her slim, stocking-clad legs, the sheer white fabric giving her skin an almost ethereal glow. The lace trim of her thigh-high stockings hugged her legs perfectly, accentuating their shape. The puffed black skirt and white apron cinched at her waist, emphasizing her slender figure. She tugged nervously at the hem of her skirt, trying to pull it lower. Even with her disguised features, the delicate and bashful demeanor she exuded was undeniably captivating. Shia¡¯s gaze traveled from her face downward, and a disappointed sigh escaped him. ''Flat as a board¡ What a waste of a succubus¡¯s natural talent.'' Though Shia said nothing, Rong could feel his eyes lingering. A surge of irritation bubbled within her. Even in her social awkwardness, Rong couldn¡¯t hide her displeasure. Shia caught the slight frown on her lips and the twitch of her brows. He leaned back in his chair, crossing his legs as his gaze lazily swept back to her face. ¡°So, do you really think you can handle being a maid?¡± The shift in topic caught Rong off guard. Her irritation dissipated as she straightened her posture slightly. ¡°Of course I can,¡± she replied, puffing out her modest chest with a hint of pride. Inwardly, she vowed to prove her worth. ''I¡¯ll make you regret doubting me!'' Despite her confidence, Rong¡¯s inexperience quickly became evident. When it came time to formally greet her ¡°master,¡± she hesitated, her lips moving silently as she struggled to get the words out. ¡°What should you call me?¡± Shia prompted, leaning back with a smug grin. Rong¡¯s cheeks burned brighter, her hesitation giving way to pure embarrassment. Chapter 50: The Succubus’ Humbling Moment Chapter 50: The Succubus¡¯ Humbling Moment Rong¡¯s lips trembled as she tried to speak, but the words caught in her throat. Looking at Shia¡¯s relaxed posture and teasing smirk, the word felt impossible to say. ''¡°Master¡±? He wants me to call him ¡°Master¡±?'' She clenched her fists, a rush of irritation flaring up within her. She wanted to bite him. ''Why does this feel so much harder than watching the elder succubi practice in Dreamland?'' Back then, everything seemed effortless. Yet now, with Shia sitting there so smugly, her voice refused to cooperate. Her gaze fell to the floor as she mustered every ounce of courage. With her eyes squeezed shut, she finally let out a whisper so faint it could have been mistaken for the buzz of a mosquito. ¡°M-Master¡¡± The moment the word escaped her lips, she let out a deep breath, her entire body tensed and glistening with nervous sweat. To Rong, her quiet declaration felt deafening. Shia, however, barely heard it. ¡°Well, I guess that¡¯s acceptable for a first try,¡± he muttered, amused by her awkwardness. ''Poor little introvert. Don¡¯t want to push her too far¡ªyet.'' But calling him ¡°Master¡± was just the beginning. ¡°That¡¯s a start,¡± Shia said, reclining slightly in his chair. ¡°You¡¯ll get the hang of it with practice.¡± Then, he added casually, ¡°My shoulders are feeling stiff lately. Come and massage them.¡± His chair swiveled halfway, presenting his back to her. Rong froze. Her heart pounded as the full weight of his request hit her.If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. ''Close contact? He expects me to touch him?'' A flush spread rapidly across her face. ''The succubus princess giving a human a shoulder massage?'' Her mind raced with mortifying images of what the succubi back home would say. She could already hear their gleeful jeers and see their exaggerated cheers. The thought of their mockery sapped her energy, and she felt her shoulders slump. ''Is this it? Am I really going to survive by selling my body in such a humiliating way?'' Her hand hovered over his shoulder, hesitant, her touch light and distracted. It was barely a graze, as though she were trying to convince herself she wasn¡¯t really doing this. Shia remained still, letting her find her rhythm. Before long, Rong¡¯s internal monologue shifted. ''This is different. I¡¯m not giving up anything¡ªthis is just part of the job.'' With a renewed sense of resolve, her grip firmed, her hands pressing into his muscles with more intent. Shia¡¯s lips curled into a small smile. The change in pressure was noticeable, and he could sense her emotions shift with every touch. Her movements betrayed her nervousness, yet there was a sincerity in the way she worked. As her fingers kneaded his shoulders, Rong became increasingly aware of his presence¡ªthe warmth radiating through his shirt, the faint scent of soap lingering on his skin. Her cheeks burned anew, the close proximity leaving her flustered. ¡°That¡¯s enough for now,¡± Shia said after a moment, his voice breaking the tension. ¡°Go pick a bedroom you like.¡± Rong nodded, her face still crimson as she stepped back. ''He didn¡¯t criticize me. Does that mean I did well?'' She hurried to explore the villa, her eyes lighting up as she entered a luxurious guest room. The plush bed called to her, and she couldn¡¯t resist throwing herself onto it. The soft mattress cradled her as she bounced gently, the cool silk sheets warming quickly under her body. ''This is heaven!'' After two days of discomfort in the library, the contrast was almost overwhelming. She rolled across the bed, savoring the softness, giggling quietly to herself. Her joy was short-lived. The door swung open, revealing Shia leaning casually against the frame. ¡°Enjoying yourself?¡± he asked, amusement dancing in his eyes. Rong froze mid-roll, her face buried in the sheets as her body stiffened like a startled cat. ¡°Just wanted to let you know¡ªyour toiletries are ready,¡± Shia continued, his tone light. ¡°The pink set in the bathroom is yours.¡± With that, he closed the door, leaving Rong alone to process her mortification. Inside, she let out a muffled scream, kicking the sheets in frustration. Outside, Shia chuckled softly, clearly hearing her muffled cries despite the soundproofing enchantments. ''She¡¯s way too much fun to tease.'' --- After composing herself, Rong slipped into the bathroom. Moonlight streamed through the window, casting a soft glow over her reflection. With a deep breath, she reached up to remove her disguise. Her horns, delicate and symmetrical, emerged from her head, glinting faintly in the dim light. Her fox-like eyes sparkled as she studied her face. Her soft, cherry-red lips looked plump and inviting, framed by her smooth, radiant skin. The faint blush on her cheeks gave her an innocent charm that contrasted sharply with the natural allure of her succubus heritage. But her gaze shifted downward, and her lips twitched in frustration. Her chest, though perfectly proportioned to her petite frame, remained modest at best. ''Why couldn¡¯t I inherit ''all'' of the succubus traits?'' Behind her, her tail swayed happily, betraying her mood. ''I wonder... If he saw me like this, would it work? Could I... enchant him?'' The thought sent a small shiver down her spine, and she quickly shook her head, dismissing the idea. Rong stepped back from the mirror, her resolve strengthening. ''No. Focus. This is just the beginning. I¡¯ll prove myself through effort, not charm.'' With that, she changed into her sleepwear and slipped under the covers, determined to face the next day with renewed purpose. For now, she let herself relax in the comfort of the bed, her tail curling around her as she drifted off to sleep. Rong¡¯s mind drifted to Shia¡¯s face, and her lips curved into a small smile. ''A good person...'' Under the moonlit night, a new resolve began to take shape within her. Alongside her pursuit of a profession, she decided to use her time with Shia to overcome her social anxiety. Chapter 51: Harsh Punishment for the Snitching Princess Chapter 51: Harsh Punishment for the Snitching Princess The next morning, Rong was still half-asleep, lost in the haze of a dream, when she felt something pinching her cheek. It stung slightly, tugging her out of her comfortable slumber. She lazily swatted at the source, hoping it would go away. But the pinch came again, firmer this time. Opening her eyes groggily, she was met with Shia¡¯s face¡ªso close it startled her awake. ¡°Do I need to make breakfast for you, *my maid*?¡± he teased, his tone light but laced with amusement. Rong bolted upright, nearly headbutting Shia in the process. Her face flushed instantly at his words. ¡°I-I¡¯ll do it! You¡ªjust leave the room for a moment!¡± she stammered, her hands waving him away. But in her heart, she grumbled. *This human is so infuriating!* Whatever goodwill she had felt the night before plummeted to new lows. --- Twenty minutes later, Shia sat in the bright, spotless dining room, thoroughly enjoying his breakfast. The crispy corn cakes, buttery toast, and occasional bites of fresh salad brought to his mouth by an increasingly flustered Rong made the meal particularly satisfying. Although her face was sour, her cooking skills were surprisingly decent. The sight of her serving breakfast in her maid attire stirred a thought in Shia¡¯s mind. *What about Lilith¡¯s maid, Tia?*Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author. The image of the voluptuous white-haired maid cooking breakfast in her apron flashed through his head. *Hmm... sounds like something worth trying someday.* --- Meanwhile, elsewhere in the academy, Tia sneezed unexpectedly, pausing in her task of preparing breakfast for her beloved mistress. *Did I catch a cold last night?* she wondered, a faint frown on her face as an unexplained chill ran down her spine. --- Back in the dining room, Shia finished his meal with a satisfied sigh. But he wasn¡¯t done for the day. Today, he had a mission: to teach a certain snitching princess a lesson. --- In the classroom, Violet sat alone, as usual. Her silver hair shimmered under the light, cascading over her shoulders. Her cold, elegant beauty exuded an untouchable aura that kept others at a distance. The rows around her were empty, even though the rest of the class was packed. With her books and pens neatly arranged on the desk, Violet sat straight, her demeanor regal and intimidating. She was the epitome of a high-born lady¡ªa goddess who could only be admired from afar. Nobody dared approach her. Until today. The screech of a chair being pulled out broke the silence around her. Violet¡¯s brows furrowed in irritation. Who would dare? Turning her head sharply, she was greeted by none other than Shia. ¡°Who gave you permission to sit here?¡± she demanded, her voice cold and dripping with disdain. A commoner, someone beneath her notice, sitting next to her? It was unthinkable. Her piercing gaze and oppressive aura would have sent anyone else scurrying away in shame. But Shia? He didn¡¯t even flinch. The start-of-class bell rang, cutting the tension in the air. The instructor entered, pausing briefly upon noticing someone sitting next to Violet, but ultimately said nothing. Shia leaned back in his chair, his expression relaxed as he looked at the blackboard. ¡°You¡¯re quite the piece of work, running to ¡®tell the teacher¡¯ after you lose. Pathetic,¡± he muttered just loud enough for Violet to hear. Her body stiffened, her fingers curling into fists. Her breathing quickened as she processed his words. ¡°I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about,¡± she replied, her voice icy but strained. ¡°Come now, Your Highness. Is snitching not beneath someone of your esteemed status?¡± Shia continued, his tone mocking. ¡°I... I didn¡¯t snitch!¡± Violet shot back, her face reddening slightly. ¡°Oh? Then who went to Lilith to complain about me?¡± Violet pursed her lips, struggling to defend herself. ¡°That wasn¡¯t snitching. I was simply... stating facts.¡± Her voice wavered as she tried to justify herself, but Shia wasn¡¯t buying it. ¡°Sure. Let¡¯s call it that,¡± he said, his grin widening. ¡°How¡¯d that work out for you?¡± Before she could reply, Shia leaned closer, his voice dropping to a whisper. ¡°But I didn¡¯t come here to argue with you. I came here to teach you a lesson.¡± Without warning, his hand slid under the desk and onto her leg. Violet¡¯s eyes widened, and she nearly gasped aloud. His hand brushed against the smooth fabric of her white stockings, his touch deliberate and teasing. Then, he pinched the stocking slightly, pulling it taut before letting it snap back against her skin with a faint *pop*. The sudden sensation made her flinch, her heart pounding in her chest. Glancing around nervously, she saw that none of her classmates had noticed the interaction. But before she could breathe a sigh of relief, Shia¡¯s hand moved again, more boldly this time. The warmth of his palm seeped through the thin fabric, and the deliberate pressure of his fingers made her stomach twist. Her gaze darted to the instructor, praying no one would notice the increasingly inappropriate actions happening under the desk. Finally, unable to contain herself, Violet turned her head sharply and hissed, ¡°What are you doing?!¡± ¡°Teaching you,¡± Shia replied with a gentlemanly smile, his tone infuriatingly calm. Violet froze, her mind racing as she tried to process his audacity. ¡°You¡¯re too na?ve, Your Highness,¡± Shia said, leaning back in his chair as if nothing had happened. ¡°In situations where you¡¯re clearly outmatched, you should stop bluffing and either apologize or back down. Otherwise...¡± He gave her a pointed look, his smile widening. ¡°You¡¯ll end up like this.¡± Chapter 52: Enduring Humiliation for the Royal Dignity Chapter 52: Enduring Humiliation for the Royal Dignity As the words fell, Violet let out a muffled groan. It hurt¡ªa bit more than she''d expected. Shia raised an eyebrow slightly but didn¡¯t ease up in the slightest. The sensation in his hand was undeniably pleasant, soft yet firm, the silk stockings providing just the right amount of tension. Clearly, the material was of high quality. Yet the princess¡¯s delicate thighs didn¡¯t seem to have undergone much physical training to withstand such treatment. Violet bit her lip, enduring the sting as best as she could, her teeth sinking into her tender flesh. Finally, she turned her head and shot Shia a murderous glare, her royal dignity intact even in such an awkward situation. But glares, being nothing more than a visual threat, had no effect on Shia. If anything, it seemed to excite him further. Unrestrained and unapologetic, his actions grew bolder. "You¡ª!" Violet¡¯s voice trembled with suppressed rage, but the words she wanted to scream wouldn¡¯t come out. Couldn¡¯t he see the risk of being caught? Yet even though she voiced the possibility aloud, a flicker of fear betrayed her in her eyes¡ªa hint that spoke volumes. Shia didn¡¯t care at all. "Caught? So what? Not like it matters to me," he said, his tone nonchalant. ¡°Are you afraid of being discovered?¡± Shia leaned in closer, his body just brushing against Violet¡¯s. Though his eyes remained on the blackboard, his words were directed at her. ¡°Don¡¯t you fear I¡¯ll scream harassment?!¡± Violet spat, her voice squeezed out through gritted teeth. ¡°To be honest, not really,¡± Shia replied with a chuckle. ¡°But you, Princess, if anyone were to find out... What would happen to you?¡± His tone was light, almost gentle, but an unmistakable hint of malice seeped through. This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience. The implication sent a shiver down Violet¡¯s spine. Her mind raced through the scenarios, each one more mortifying than the last. No. Absolutely not. Being discovered was unthinkable. The way her classmates would look at her afterward... she couldn¡¯t bear it. So even as Shia¡¯s hands grew bolder, unapologetically exploring, she could only grit her teeth and endure. Her defeat was inevitable. Finally, she seemed to have learned her lesson. Satisfied, Shia decided it was time to move on to the next phase. His voice lowered, the question clear yet mocking: "Have you realized your mistake now?" He spoke as his fingers pinched her thigh through the silk stockings, kneading the soft flesh. The texture was exquisite¡ªsupple and elastic under his touch. ¡°What mistake?!¡± Violet snapped, her teeth clenched. She was the princess, after all. How could she bow to a commoner like him? And to confess to tattling? That was unthinkable. ¡°Still don¡¯t get it, huh?¡± Shia sighed, as though disappointed. Yet his actions betrayed no hint of regret. If anything, he doubled down. Violet could hear the snap of the stockings against her skin, the sharp sting making her body jolt involuntarily. Her face turned pale as she fought the urge to cry out, biting her lip so hard it almost drew blood. Her mind worked furiously, trying to suppress the pain, and when the wave finally subsided, she hissed through her teeth, "You¡¯re declaring war on the entire Silvermoon Kingdom!" She was, after all, the princess of the Silvermoon Kingdom. By treating her like this, wasn¡¯t he insulting her nation? Declaring war on her people? If he had any sense, he¡¯d stop immediately. ¡°Oh? What a dramatic escalation,¡± Shia commented lazily. The meaning of her words didn¡¯t seem to faze him. Violet glared at him with eyes full of venom. Fine. If he wanted to act unbothered, she would too. Her gaze conveyed a warning: ''Keep this up, and my entire kingdom will hunt you down.'' Shia clicked his tongue twice, seemingly amused. This was supposed to be the heroine of a romance novel? She was certainly bold. Despite the threat to her purity, she focused instead on making herself more memorable to her enemy. It was impressive in its own way. Teasingly, he remarked, ¡°Come on, let¡¯s hear you talk a bit more.¡± From start to finish, his hand didn¡¯t falter. Violet endured his provocations, her thoughts spiraling into chaos. How could someone be so shameless? The very words she intended as threats were being twisted into playful taunts. She couldn¡¯t even formulate a proper rebuttal. Frustrated, she bit her lip harder, unable to do anything but endure. In the front of the room, the lecturer continued with the lesson as if nothing was amiss. The other students listened attentively, engrossed in the lecture, their world bright and hopeful. The contrast only deepened Violet¡¯s sense of despair. Here she was, in the same classroom, surrounded by the same peers, yet her reality was worlds apart. In this sacred, pure environment, she was being humiliated, powerless to resist. Biting her lip so hard it turned pale, her cold, crystalline eyes welled with unshed tears. They shimmered like raindrops against a glass pane¡ªclear yet tinged with unspoken sorrow. She felt defiled, both in spirit and body. The one small consolation was that the class was relatively short. When the lecturer finally announced the end of the session, the other students began to chatter and pack up their things. Shia left the room, satisfied as he glanced at the "obedience value" on his interface, now sitting at a solid 10. Kids were easy to handle. Meanwhile, Violet remained at her desk, isolated in her own bubble of shame. Her long silver hair spilled across the desk like a cascading waterfall, her forehead resting on her folded arms. She buried her face, her nose pressed against the cool surface of the desk, trying to recover her composure. Her cheeks were flushed crimson, her body trembling slightly in the aftermath of her ordeal. No one else seemed to notice, but Violet¡¯s glassy eyes betrayed her inner turmoil. She was overwhelmed, humiliated in a way she had never experienced before. Tears threatened to fall as she bit her lip, trembling with indignation. This humiliation... she would never forgive it. She swore to herself that she¡¯d exact revenge. But as she plotted, the reality of her situation struck her. How could she possibly retaliate? She couldn¡¯t outfight him, and even in scheming, she was no match. Her mind returned to the bitter defeats she had suffered¡ªwhether in combat or in subtle, indirect confrontations. Each attempt to reclaim her dignity had only worsened her plight. She was at a loss. The once-na?ve princess, untested in the harsh realities of life, was now utterly cornered by a cunning foe. Chapter 53: Lilith Decides to Use Force Chapter 53: Lilith Decides to Use Force Violet sat in silence, her mind swirling with despair. What could she do? It seemed there was no solution at all. The once-na?ve princess had finally learned a hard lesson, all thanks to Shia. Out in the world, the excellence she had once prided herself on was worth nothing. This realization, which should have taken years of hardship and exposure to the harsh realities of life, had come early, accelerated by Shia¡¯s actions. Meanwhile, just outside the classroom, a petite figure with golden hair was sneaking peeks inside. Lilith¡¯s golden head popped into view now and then before quickly retreating. Lilith, the proud and fiery heiress, had originally come to test the waters with Shia, worried about her "dog" compromising himself by mingling with others in the goddess¡¯s garden. The thought of her fianc¨¦ wagging his metaphorical tail at someone else was unacceptable. Sure, she didn¡¯t particularly care about him as a fianc¨¦, but even a dog should remain loyal to her alone! She had even gone so far as to ask her mentor for the freshman class schedule, specifically so she could catch him here. Unfortunately, she was too late. Scanning the classroom, she found no sign of Shia. But her gaze did land on a striking figure¡ªViolet, silver-haired and slumped over her desk, looking unwell. What¡¯s wrong with her? Could she be¡ on her period? Lilith mused. Regardless, since she was already here, she decided to act like the perfect senior and offer some comfort to her underclassman. Plastering on a warm, caring smile, Lilith gracefully took a seat beside Violet, her demeanor exuding senior-like reliability. Feeling someone sit down next to her, Violet, consumed by anger, assumed it was Shia returning to torment her. Her head snapped up, her glare sharp enough to kill.Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit. When she saw it was Lilith, however, she froze, her piercing gaze lingering. Lilith tilted her head in confusion. ''Why the hostility?'' She had come to help, yet Violet was looking at her like she was the enemy. Despite her confusion, Lilith pressed on, her concern unwavering. ¡°Are you feeling unwell today, junior?¡± Violet bit her lip, seething internally. ''You have the nerve to ask! If it weren¡¯t for you, I wouldn¡¯t be in this position¡'' Only Violet knew the full story. Shia¡¯s audacity in bullying her was entirely thanks to this so-called senior. But there was no way she could say that aloud. Admitting to being humiliated by a commoner? The thought alone made her stomach churn with shame. Violet¡¯s resentment simmered as she shot Lilith a reproachful look, her voice dripping with sadness. ¡°Senior, I¡¯ve always respected you.¡± Lilith¡¯s wide eyes blinked back at her, full of concern. ¡°And I appreciate that,¡± she replied, nodding earnestly. ¡°But if you can¡¯t help me, just say so. I won¡¯t blame you.¡± Lilith¡¯s confusion deepened. ¡°Huh?¡± She understood each individual word but somehow couldn¡¯t grasp their meaning when strung together. ¡°Shia is your fianc¨¦. It¡¯s only natural for you to side with him.¡± ¡°Wait, what?¡± ¡°But if you can¡¯t help me, just don¡¯t make me hope for nothing.¡± Violet finished speaking, turning her head to gaze out the window, her profile etched with stubborn defiance. Her words carried an unmistakable undercurrent: Shia hadn¡¯t just wronged her¡ªhe¡¯d gone out of his way to cause trouble. Was that what happened? Lilith stared at Violet¡¯s sulking form, a strange sense of guilt welling up inside her. Seeing such a pitiful girl, who wouldn¡¯t want to comfort her? Lilith¡¯s mind raced as she pieced together the likely scenario: Shia must have upset Violet during class. ¡°Did he say something to you?¡± she asked, her expression turning serious. Gripping Violet¡¯s shoulders, she gently but firmly turned her around to face her. If only it had been words. That scoundrel had actually dared to lay his hands on her! Violet pressed her lips together, saying nothing. Her defiant eyes shimmered faintly with unshed tears, refusing to meet Lilith¡¯s gaze. Still, her frustration with Shia¡¯s actions had now extended to Lilith, the unwitting enabler. ¡°You can trust me. I¡¯m on your side,¡± Lilith promised quickly. ¡°This was an accident. I¡¯ll make sure to teach him a lesson.¡± Violet¡¯s voice, flat and emotionless, cut her off. ¡°You already said that once before.¡± The words hit Lilith like a punch to the gut. She could feel the trust she¡¯d worked so hard to build slipping away. ¡°No, this time will be different. I¡¯ll bring him to you myself and make him apologize. You can do whatever you want with him¡ªI won¡¯t stop you,¡± she declared. ¡°I swear on the honor of the Guen family.¡± For the first time, Violet turned her head, locking eyes with Lilith. Their gazes met, and Lilith¡¯s hand instinctively slid from Violet¡¯s shoulder down her arm. Her delicate fingers brushed against Violet¡¯s smooth, porcelain-like skin, sending a slight shiver down Lilith¡¯s spine. She grasped Violet¡¯s slender hand, marveling at its softness and chill¡ªlike holding a cool breeze on a summer day. With a warm smile, Lilith asked, ¡°You trust me now, don¡¯t you?¡± Violet, however, couldn¡¯t muster much faith. Despite Lilith¡¯s talent and noble background, she had seen Shia dismiss her completely the first time they met. And just now, Lilith had promised to help her, only for things to escalate. Shia¡¯s behavior this time had been even more humiliating than before. Still, Violet managed a faint smile. ¡°Do your best, but if you can¡¯t help, just don¡¯t make things worse for either of us.¡± With that, she stood and left, her silver hair swaying as she walked away. Watching her retreating figure, Lilith clenched her fists. Her concern deepened¡ªshe couldn¡¯t afford to lose the goodwill she¡¯d built. This couldn¡¯t stand. She had to take decisive action. Her resolve hardened as her expression turned firm. If words wouldn¡¯t work, then force it would be. It didn¡¯t matter if it was persuasion or punishment¡ªso long as Shia bent to her will and made amends. After all, discipline was necessary when dealing with unruly pets. She wasn¡¯t bothered by the thought of using physical force. She¡¯d done it with disobedient dogs before. Elegance was important, sure, but there were times when efficiency came first. Chapter 54: I’m Doing This for Your Own Good Chapter 54: I¡¯m Doing This for Your Own Good The longer this dragged on, the worse it would be for Violet, stirring up more negative emotions and dropping her favorability even further. First, let Shia apologize to her. Afterward, Lilith could soothe Shia and keep things balanced. A stick first, then a sweet date¡ªthis method not only taught lessons but also ensured her kindness would be remembered. The more Lilith thought about it, the more feasible her plan seemed. ''Such a brilliant idea in such a short time¡ªI really am a genius!'' Beneath the shade of trees, accompanied by the sound of cicadas and the sunlight filtering through the leaves, the atmosphere was peaceful. From the sports field, occasional laughter drifted over, painting a picture of a leisurely summer day. Shia strolled under the trees, sunlight occasionally breaking through the dense foliage, scattering warm circular spots of light on him. It was a tranquil and pleasant moment¡ªuntil a sudden chill pierced the air. His path was blocked. Standing before him was his golden-haired fianc¨¦e, a noblewoman with the proud stance of a large dog. Lilith stood there, issuing what felt like an ultimatum. "I¡¯ll ask you one last time: will you come and apologize with me or not?" Shia remained silent, staring at her calmly. The hands resting behind his head slowly lowered. Lilith¡¯s irritation grew at his silence. Her expression teetered between heartbreak and frustration. "Shia, do you even care about me at all?" "Would it really be so hard for you to apologize, just for my sake?" "Yet you insist on making things difficult for me." Lowering her gaze, she adopted a look of sorrow, as if deeply hurt. Using her coquettish demeanor and moral manipulation, she tried to achieve her unreasonable demands with a pitiful facade. Truly despicable. Would Shia be swayed by her manipulation?Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on. Of course not. Instead, he sent it right back her way. "That¡¯s a question I¡¯d like to ask you too." "Do you care about me at all?" "I¡¯m your fianc¨¦, and yet you want me to grovel and bow to someone else?" "If you truly loved me, would you disregard my pride like this?" "Does our childhood bond mean less than your fleeting acquaintance with her?" His tone wasn¡¯t angry or agitated, but his calm questioning cut deeper than any loud accusation. For someone like Lilith, who only saw him as a tool, his words meant nothing. She had never truly cared, so how could they burden her heart? Not in the slightest. Her sorrowful facade disappeared, replaced by a stern expression on her flawless, delicate face. "So, you¡¯re refusing to apologize?" Her sharp gaze bore into Shia, and in that moment, their conflict reached a breaking point. Her long, sleek legs clad in black stockings exuded elegance and sensuality. Her flat stomach drew the eye, leading to a supple waist that looked barely strong enough to support her generous breasts. Her ample chest strained against her blouse, creating an unignorable presence that only heightened the tension in the air. The atmosphere grew heavier, the tension palpable. It was as if the slightest movement would ignite an explosive clash. And yet, even in this moment of impending confrontation, Lilith¡¯s tone carried a feigned sincerity. "Shia, hitting is affection, scolding is love. What I¡¯m doing is for your own good!" Her expression bore a tragic air, as though mourning his misfortune and lamenting his shortcomings. Yet her hands were already flexing, cracking her knuckles, her wrist twisting¡ªa clear sign she was ready to strike. Even though he had treated her so rudely, she still believed she was selflessly helping him return to the "right path." Such magnanimity, such nobility¡ªat least in her own mind. Whether Shia felt moved, Lilith didn¡¯t know. But she had certainly convinced herself of her righteousness. Undoubtedly, Shia¡¯s worst fears had come true. He sighed inwardly. Although he had the means to defend himself with the power of the Pure White Construct, he didn¡¯t want to escalate things with Lilith at this stage. Yet conflict was inevitable. Reality wasn¡¯t a game. In a game, everything was programmed, the heroines and side characters acting in response to the player¡¯s decisions. But in this world, women¡¯s emotions weren¡¯t fixed or predictable. In the game, failing to follow the right route might decrease favorability or lead to a failed conquest, but you could always reload and try again. Here, refusing to bow to Violet meant Lilith could choose to resolve the matter with physical force. A sense of urgency blossomed within Shia. Unless he quickly gained the strength to protect himself, situations like this would undoubtedly happen again. When emotional manipulation failed, Lilith, wielding absolute power in their dynamic, would always resort to violence. It seemed he needed to speed up his efforts to strengthen his bond with his demonic maid. Only by unlocking the ring and advancing his career path could he truly stand tall. But just as Lilith was about to make her move, a slender, alabaster hand gently rested on her shoulder. A magnetic, mature voice came from behind her, soft yet firm. "Little one, don¡¯t move. You might die, you know~!" The voice, sultry and teasing, carried a faint, intoxicating fragrance. But despite its seductive quality, it was a declaration of death. Someone else might have dismissed it as harmless, perhaps even alluring. Even an upperclassman might only feel a vague sense of familiarity hearing the voice. But Lilith wasn¡¯t just anyone. As someone who aspired to charm every beauty under the sun, she recognized this voice immediately. Even in the scorching summer heat, with sunlight streaming down on her, Lilith felt as though she¡¯d fallen into an icy abyss. That voice, that fragrance¡ªshe knew them all too well. And precisely because she recognized them, disbelief overwhelmed her. Why was she here? Why would she say something so threatening? Wasn¡¯t she supposed to be a rare, revered presence? Why would someone of her stature appear so casually¡ªand threaten her of all people? It couldn¡¯t possibly be for Shia¡¯s sake, could it? The thought was absurd. Their statuses were worlds apart. It didn¡¯t make any sense. No matter her confusion, Lilith dared not dismiss the weight of those words. She turned stiffly, forcing a smile that looked sunny but felt utterly unnatural. When her eyes landed on the figure behind her, Lilith¡¯s entire composure crumbled. Why was the headmistress here at this moment?! It couldn¡¯t be¡ no, no, no! How could her plain, unremarkable fianc¨¦ possibly have the charm to warrant such intervention from the headmistress herself? Her mind reeled, unable to make sense of it. But there was no question about why Diana was here. She was here for Shia. At this moment, the oppressive aura exuded by the towering beauty of Lilith, with her golden hair, black stockings, and commanding presence, was nothing compared to the sheer, visceral dominance radiating from the mature, high-ranking woman behind her. Lilith stood frozen, facing a threat far beyond her understanding. Chapter 55: Mary Sues Miserable Defeat in a Sheer Veil—Feels Like Shes About to Lose It Chapter 55: Mary Sue''s Miserable Defeat in a Sheer Veil¡ªFeels Like She''s About to Lose It A tall and imposing figure, her height alone was enough to exert dominance. Her body was voluptuous and fiery, with a soft layer of flesh on her lower abdomen that looked irresistibly touchable. Her massive breasts were so prominent that one couldn''t even see her face without bending down or pressing those mountains aside. Only then would her enchanting and breathtakingly beautiful face come into view. Her long legs, wrapped tightly in black stockings, seemed almost suffocated by the fabric, the sheer tightness pressing against her flesh. And with her towering height, her long legs gave her a clear advantage, making her presence even more overwhelming. This seductive figure was on an entirely different level when compared to someone like Lilith, who was still developing. On her own, Lilith might have been considered an exceptionally developed young woman. But in front of Diana, she could only pale in comparison and look like a little sister. If this were any other situation, Lilith might have been utterly thrilled by the alluring sight before her, longing to dive in and bury herself in the perfection of it all. But right now, she had no energy left to appreciate such beauty. "Headmistress," Lilith forced a smile, reluctantly greeting her while trying to muster the courage to protest. "This is a family matter. Isn''t it inappropriate for you to interfere?" Would Diana care? Not at all. When it came to being headstrong, there was no one in the academy who could outdo her. Family matters, national matters, world matters¡ªif she wanted to meddle, she''d meddle. "This little student here¡ªShia is someone I care about. Bullying him is like slapping me in the face," Diana said, bending down to get face-to-face with Lilith. Her alluring, almost sinful beauty came dangerously close, their cheeks nearly touching. Her crimson eyes, though mesmerizing, burned with a dangerous intensity. "¡Understand?" The sheer oppressive aura of the goddess of chaos enveloped Lilith completely. Even with the protection of protagonist-level plot armor, Lilith found her scalp tingling and couldn''t help swallowing nervously under Diana''s deathly gaze. This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it. She was a little scared. This headmistress was terrifyingly fierce! In the end, Lilith could only nod obediently. How could she dare to defy the headmistress? Yet deep inside, Lilith was puzzled and a bit curious. Why was the headmistress going out of her way to stand up for Shia? The level of attention was far too much. If she could figure out his secret trick, wouldn''t she also be able to build a close relationship with this towering goddess of a woman? And considering how open-minded Diana seemed, she probably wouldn¡¯t refuse her advances! As she mused, Lilith began envisioning a bright future filled with possibilities. Her initial fear quickly dissipated, replaced entirely by hope. In just a moment, her mindset had completely shifted. Rather than opposing the headmistress to trouble Shia, she decisively bowed and apologized. Her long, slender legs and delicate waist bent into a perfect 90-degree angle. Her cascading golden curls slid down her back, nearly brushing the ground. "Headmistress, there might have been some misunderstanding here. I sincerely apologize!" The speed of her attitude shift even made Diana glance at her sideways. After apologizing, Lilith turned toward Shia with a face full of tenderness, her voice dripping with honey. "My dear Shia, did I scare you just now?" "Actually, I was only joking earlier, testing how you''d react to danger." "Your response just now was impressive¡ªso manly and full of unyielding spirit. You were absolutely amazing!" Shia, however, merely gave Lilith a look as if she were an idiot and said nothing. His expression practically screamed: ''"I have no idea who this person is!"'' Completely ignoring her, he left her to flounder in her awkwardness. Anyone else might have died of embarrassment in this situation. But who was Lilith? She was a master of shamelessness. Whether Shia responded, believed her, or forgave her¡ªit didn¡¯t matter to her. She had already shifted her focus to building a connection with Diana, using her relationship with Shia as leverage. "Headmistress, let me introduce myself. I¡¯m Shia¡¯s fianc¨¦e and a second-year student here at the academy." Diana''s red eyes swept over Lilith from head to toe, her gaze devoid of emotion. She merely let out a faint "Hmm" from her nose, its meaning unclear. Lilith didn''t waste time deciphering that brief sound. Instead, she immediately started flattering Diana. "Headmistress, I¡¯ve admired you ever since before I enrolled in this academy!" "A strong, independent woman like you is a role model for all of us students." "It was because of you that I applied to Seven Shields Academy." "You¡¯re my idol!" "¡" Lilith''s face lit up with a dazzling, obedient smile¡ªa complete fangirl. But sadly, Diana wasn¡¯t impressed. Flattery and praise meant nothing to her. She¡¯d heard such words countless times before. What truly intrigued her were people like Shia, who faced her with a calm demeanor and occasionally dared to challenge her authority. That was far more interesting. Seeing Diana¡¯s lack of interest, Lilith¡¯s eyes shifted as she quickly changed the subject. "Headmistress, you only saw me being strict with Shia, but you don¡¯t understand¡ªI have my reasons!" At the mention of Shia, Diana finally gave Lilith a proper glance, her curiosity piqued. But Lilith seized the moment and began pouring out her grievances, trying to clear her name. "I was only worried about Shia making mistakes. Lately, I¡¯ve noticed him frequently visiting a villa in the Alinga Mountains." "He¡¯s my beloved fianc¨¦¡ªhow could I harm him? Though I hate to admit it, it seems¡ he might be kept by another woman." "Headmistress, as a woman yourself, tell me¡ªhow could I possibly stand for that?" Lilith lowered her head, and when she looked up again, her eyes were red, brimming with pitiful tears. She made it sound so convincing, as if it were all true. Unfortunately, standing before her was Diana. And Diana delivered a brutal counter. "Oh? Are you referring to Villa No. 7 in the Alinga Mountains?" Lilith had no idea which villa it was, but nodding seemed like the right thing to do. "That¡¯s Shia¡¯s private villa," Diana said plainly. What? Lilith froze mid-nod. She looked up at Diana, dumbfounded. "It was approved just two days ago. Didn¡¯t he tell you?" Diana¡¯s face was full of genuine curiosity. Lilith felt like a sheer veil had been lifted off her soul. Two days ago? Wasn¡¯t that the night she kicked him out? At this point, Lilith regretted everything! If she hadn¡¯t driven him away that night, wouldn¡¯t she be living with him in that luxurious villa now? And rumor had it that the area was teeming with top-tier goddesses. There was a saint hailed as the Dawn of Light and a flower on the peak of swordsmanship¡ All kinds of rare beauties with maxed-out appeal! That region wasn¡¯t just for anyone with money¡ªit was exclusive to the elite. Yet her fianc¨¦ had the privilege of living there, and she hadn¡¯t known a thing. Worse, she¡¯d kicked him out on the very day he moved in! She could have been there, too. The more she thought about it, the more miserable she felt. Lilith felt like she was going to lose it completely. Chapter 56: Would You Consider Being My Child? Chapter 56: Would You Consider Being My Child? Shia had no interest in the dramatic display playing out behind him. As Lilith continued lamenting her regrets, he and Diana had already turned to leave. However, a tug on his sleeve forced him to stop. Turning his head, he saw Lilith looking up at him with teary, puppy-like eyes. "Shia, don¡¯t go." Her wide, watery eyes brimmed with unspoken sorrow, her pitiful expression resembling a defeated stray. It was as though Shia had abandoned her for the taller, more mature Diana. With a calm expression, Shia took hold of Lilith''s hand. For a brief moment, hope flickered in her eyes. But instead of comforting her, he firmly and decisively peeled her hand away. As Lilith''s face grew even more sorrowful, he allowed a hint of melancholy to show in his expression. "Lilith, I think we need some time apart," he said, his voice calm but tinged with a hollow sense of detachment, as if his heart had been shattered. He tossed her hand aside and walked away. "All these years together¡ are you really going to abandon it all?" "I''ll wait for you here¡ until you turn back." "What do I need to do to make you stay, my dearest Shia?!" Behind him, Lilith''s heartfelt cries rang out, echoing with raw emotion. Yet her impassioned words didn¡¯t slow Shia¡¯s steps. In fact, if anything, he seemed to pick up the pace. Diana glanced at him, a smirk tugging at her lips as she teased him. "Your fianc¨¦e really is something else, isn¡¯t she?" Shia could only offer a weary smile, letting out a helpless sigh. If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. Diana chuckled lightly. Even in her long life, she hadn¡¯t encountered someone quite like Lilith before. Using emotional manipulation and outright violence to control her fianc¨¦¡ Switching to fawning flattery as soon as things didn¡¯t go her way¡ And doing it all without a shred of shame. If Shia weren¡¯t involved, Diana might¡¯ve been tempted to toy with Lilith for her own amusement. After all, life could get boring, and watching people act like clowns was entertaining. But for now, Shia¡¯s unpredictable charm held her attention. --- Back at Shia¡¯s villa, Diana acted as if she owned the place. She gracefully bent down to remove her shoes, moving with a natural ease that suggested she¡¯d done it countless times. Leaning against the small cabinet by the entrance, her waist dipped as she bent forward. The generous weight of her chest pulled downward, causing her low-cut neckline to reveal an enticing view of deep cleavage. With one hand holding the thin heel of her shoe, she slipped it off, freeing her stocking-clad foot. The taut fabric clung to her skin, highlighting the curves of her heel and toes, the light catching on the sheer material in a way that made the sight downright mesmerizing. When her bare feet met the cool stone floor, it sent an almost tactile urge to scoop them up and hold them close. Every movement was a study in seductive elegance. Shia didn¡¯t shy away from appreciating the sight, nor did he hesitate to ask directly. "So, what are you trying to do here?" Diana finished removing her heels and stood barefoot, her black-stockinged feet resting lightly on the ground. She tossed her dark hair over her shoulder, her expression warm and motherly. "Just trying to guide you, of course~!" she said, casting him a playful wink and a bewitching smile. She turned, her hips swaying with an alluring rhythm, her long legs crossing gracefully as she walked. Each step sent a tantalizing jiggle through her chest, the movement enough to captivate anyone¡¯s attention. Stopping by the couch, she perched elegantly on the edge, lifting her perfectly rounded hips before settling down. Patting the seat beside her, she beckoned to Shia with a teasing smile. "Come sit." It was the kind of invitation no one could refuse¡ªa confident, alluring woman inviting you to sit beside her. Shia accepted and sat down, the distance between them barely enough to fit a breath. But in the next moment, Diana''s demeanor shifted. Her face grew serious, her sultry allure replaced by a dignified, almost regal air. Her beauty took on a new edge¡ªcold and commanding, yet irresistibly tempting. The contrast of her strict expression and her innate charm created an intoxicating allure, one that seemed to demand both submission and defiance. Her voice was low and magnetic, drawing Shia into her words like a siren''s song. "You¡¯re an orphan, with no family. Your only connection is Lilith, your childhood friend." "Though, calling her a friend might be a stretch. She¡¯s never truly treated you as an equal." "You lack talent in cultivation, forever overshadowed by her, always beneath her heel¡" Diana recounted Shia¡¯s life with brutal precision, each word cutting deep. It was an emotional dissection, laying bare every scar and vulnerability. Most people would have crumbled, overwhelmed by the painful memories. They¡¯d have sought solace in her embrace, burying their face in her ample chest for comfort. But Shia¡¯s response was calm, almost indifferent. "And your point is?" Either he was putting on a fa?ade, or his mental fortitude was unshakable. Diana chuckled softly, her smile a perfect blend of cold and seductive. No wonder she¡¯d taken an interest in him¡ªhe was undeniably intriguing. Crossing one leg over the other, her luscious thighs pressed together, stretching the thin black stockings taut until they were nearly transparent. Resting her elbow on her knee, her ample chest pressed against her arm, the fabric of her dress straining under the pressure. She leaned forward slightly, her other hand gently lifting Shia¡¯s chin with a single finger. Her voice was a lazy, magnetic drawl, filled with playful allure. "How about becoming my child?" The proposal was sudden, catching Shia completely off guard. His body leaned back instinctively, one hand braced against the sofa, his expression a mix of shock and disbelief. Huh?! How did things escalate to this? "Excuse me? What did you just say?" Diana didn¡¯t back down. She leaned closer, her chest pressing firmly against him, the soft weight of her curves impossible to ignore. "I asked if you¡¯d consider being my child," she repeated, her crimson eyes locking onto his. Shia¡¯s gaze wandered involuntarily, taking in her stunning figure. Her jet-black hair radiated an air of mystery and elegance. Her crimson eyes gleamed like pools of unquenchable desire, threatening to pull anyone into their depths. Her breathtaking face exuded a dangerous, seductive charm. Despite her voluptuous curves, her collarbone was delicate and refined, her chest impossibly full and inviting. Her slim waist carried just enough softness to beg for a touch, while her black-stockinged legs seemed to radiate tension and power. She was the embodiment of a mature, irresistible beauty, her very presence amplifying every fantasy. And as Shia weighed the idea, the temptation of having someone like Diana by his side grew stronger. In her, he saw not just allure but also strength¡ªa protector who could step in when he needed her most, like today. So, faced with such a bold offer from such an extraordinary woman, what would you choose? Chapter 57: Shia’s Pinch: Breaking the Headmistress Chapter 57: Shia¡¯s Pinch: Breaking the Headmistress Shia¡¯s gaze turned back to Diana¡¯s face, meeting her eyes. In Diana¡¯s expectant gaze, Shia... "No." A swift rejection! Becoming a child? Definitely out of the question. Before Diana could feel disappointment, Shia already had a new suggestion. "Being your child is a no-go, but if you want me as your husband, I could probably accept that." Shia flashed a confident smile. A true man¡¯s charm never required trying too hard to impress. "It''s all about family, right? Don''t you think so?" Such casual audacity in front of the academy head was borderline outrageous. Most people would either eagerly agree or nervously decline, but Shia? He not only refused but even managed to tease her back. This unpredictable little rascal¡ªwhat he might do next was always a mystery. But it was precisely this elusiveness that Diana found so captivating. Yes, captivating to the point of being utterly irresistible. She adored him so much she couldn¡¯t help herself. Her fragrant arms wrapped around him, pulling Shia forcefully into her embrace. "Come on, let mommy hold you~!" Ignoring his reaction entirely, she pressed him firmly against her. The overwhelming softness of her ample chest smothered him completely, distorting his face and leaving him unable to breathe. Diana hugged Shia tightly, rubbing him affectionately against her abundant curves. "Why don¡¯t you just become my child, hmm? I¡¯ll give you everything you want." "I can give you all the love and care you could ever need~." This seductive yet doting goddess-mommy exuded an intoxicating mix of dominance, tenderness, and charm, topped with an endearing pout.The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. It seemed like the perfect offer¡ªas if agreeing would immediately catapult him to the pinnacle of life. But Shia knew all too well the suffocating depth of such "motherly love." A goddess¡¯s maternal care wasn¡¯t as ordinary as it seemed. It was an obsessive, almost pathological love, involving full control over every facet of life. From grand decisions about his future to trivial details like clothing and hairstyles, everything would be dictated by her whims. The overwhelming attention could exhaust a person, leaving them breathless and drained. Besides, he wasn¡¯t into this kind of kink. So there was no way he¡¯d agree. However, Diana wasn¡¯t one to relent. For the child she adored, she wouldn¡¯t give up so easily. Shia was on the brink of suffocation. Dealing with such a voluptuous and clingy older woman was no easy feat. "Pretty please, say yes~?" Diana continued her soft and sweet persuasion, her tone dripping with seduction and persistence. Shia, struggling to pull his head out of her cleavage, finally managed to take a deep breath. Then, without hesitation, his hand landed on her impressive chest. "Stop! Wait a minute, I have something to say!" He wasn¡¯t going to deal with this forever¡ªthis wasn¡¯t sustainable. Diana paused, a glimmer of hope in her eyes. She still cradled Shia¡¯s head against her softness. "Are you changing your mind? Will you be my child now?" It was clear that if his answer wasn¡¯t to her liking, she¡¯d resume her relentless coaxing. "Let¡¯s make a bet. A wager to settle this." Diana¡¯s interest was piqued immediately. A bet? She¡¯d lived far longer and experienced more than this little guy. She was confident she¡¯d win. "How do we bet?" "Let¡¯s see if you can truly treat me as your child." Finally breathing in fresh air again, Shia steadied himself, his breaths evening out. Diana waited for him to elaborate, but he didn¡¯t say anything else. "Is it that simple?" It seemed straightforward, but something felt fishy. She needed to double-check. "You want me to treat you as my mother? Then I should test you too, right?" Shia confirmed her suspicion, and Diana agreed without hesitation. She was so intrigued by the little rascal that she wanted to make him her child anyway¡ªhow hard could this be? Smirking arrogantly, Diana underestimated the challenge ahead. Shia¡¯s lips curved into a mischievous grin. This seductive headmistress, the epitome of beauty and desire, would soon regret her decision! Did she realize how much he knew? As someone who¡¯d replayed her route countless times, even she, the boss, had her weaknesses fully mapped out! Shia¡¯s gaze fell to Diana¡¯s slightly plush lower abdomen. Soft and inviting, it practically begged to be pinched. Her character sprite even highlighted that feature! This academy headmistress was one of the few whose affections, once maxed out, unlocked special "privileges." Diana, seeing Shia¡¯s contemplative expression, felt disdain. She was confident she¡¯d win the wager easily. Without hesitation, Shia extended his wicked hand. Shia¡¯s gaze fixated on Diana¡¯s slightly rounded lower belly, its softness an irresistible allure beneath the delicate fabric of her gown. Slowly, his hand reached out, his fingertips grazing the smooth surface as though testing the waters. The warmth of her skin beneath the thin material sent a shiver up his arm, and he allowed his fingers to trail teasingly along the gentle curve, savoring every fleeting moment. Diana¡¯s breath hitched, her body instinctively reacting to his bold touch. A faint, almost imperceptible tremble ran through her frame as her composure faltered. Her usually poised figure betrayed her, her chest rising and falling with shallow breaths that made her delicate collarbone more pronounced. Yet, she remained silent, frozen in place, as though unsure how to process the unexpected sensation. Shia¡¯s fingers pressed deeper, sinking into the plush flesh of her abdomen. The soft give of her skin beneath his playful pinch made his smirk widen, the reaction eliciting an unspoken satisfaction. Diana¡¯s cheeks flushed a deep crimson, the heat radiating from her body betraying her internal turmoil. His hand began to slide upward, emboldened by her lack of resistance. The gentle curve of her waist invited him to explore further, his fingers drifting closer to the alluring swell of her chest. But just as his fingertips grazed the edge of her gown, Diana¡¯s body jolted as if awakened from a trance. The raven-haired beauty clutched her stomach, fleeing in defeat. The villa¡¯s door slammed open, and without a backward glance, she bolted. Shia leaned back on the couch, crossed his legs, and smirked. "Is that all you¡¯ve got?" Despite her seductive allure, Diana was surprisingly pure at heart¡ªa woman of theories rather than practice. No matter how vast her theoretical knowledge, reality often hit differently. Panting heavily, Diana stopped at the courtyard gate, taking a moment to catch her breath. She turned to glance back at the villa, biting her lip in silence. Her legs trembled, barely able to support her weight, and she had to grab the gatepost to steady herself. Her voluptuous body leaned against it, soft curves pressed invitingly against the cold metal. She hadn¡¯t expected to lose¡ªlet alone to someone like Shia. The lingering heat in her abdomen felt like a phantom touch, teasing her skin mercilessly. It was both uncomfortable and oddly pleasurable. How could she play the part of a proper mommy like this? Defeated by a mere boy, her frustration knew no bounds. But she couldn¡¯t stay. If she lingered, she¡¯d only embarrass herself further. chapter 58: Mary Sue, Husband Pursuit Funeral Scene, Becoming a Simp Step One chapter 58: Mary Sue, Husband Pursuit Funeral Scene, Becoming a Simp Step One After a while, the burning sensation subsided, strength returning to her limbs. Looking back at the villa, her determination reignited. This only made him more worth conquering! Diana looked down briefly. "Maybe... just maybe..." She quickly shook her head, clearing the thought. Her eyes fixed back on the paperwork in front of her, though her mind was preoccupied with the little rascal she¡¯d just encountered. Shia... he seemed so inno cent at first. An orphan taken in by the Guen family, he seemed harmless enough. But was it really that simple? Diana tapped her temple, deep in thought. "Could it be... her?" Her voice trailed off, laden with meaning, a knowing look crossing her face. After Diana left, Shia finally breathed a sigh of relief. Though he acted like he had everything under control, dealing with this unpredictable academy headmistress was far from easy. Shia stood up, only to step on something. Looking down, he saw a small, purple lace item, symmetrical and delicate. Shia frowned. "What¡¯s this?" He picked it up, inspecting it closely. It felt nice in his hand¡ªsmooth, with a comforting texture. "Is this... a post-defeat gift?" He wasn¡¯t sure. Sighing, he thought about how lucky he was that Rong wasn¡¯t home. Otherwise, he¡¯d have some explaining to do. As he continued pondering, he heard a door creak open. Shia froze. "Who¡¯s there?" A soft voice responded from the hallway. "I¡¯m home."Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings. Rong, the succubus princess, entered the villa, halting in her tracks as she immediately picked up on the unfamiliar scent in the air. Her eyes narrowed in suspicion. "Did you bring someone home?" Would Shia admit it? Naturally not. Confess and they¡¯ll go easy on you¡ªbut you¡¯ll still rot in prison; resist and they¡¯ll come down hard¡ªbut you might make it home for the New Year. "How is this possible?" "But I can smell it." "What are you, part bloodhound?" Shia teased as he tossed the item behind his back onto the sofa. He stepped forward casually, extending a hand to pinch Rong¡¯s cute little upturned nose. His plan was well thought out¡ªuse playful physical contact to intimidate the socially awkward princess, then use the distraction to hide the incriminating evidence! Unfortunately for him, Rong wasn¡¯t just sharp-nosed¡ªshe had sharp eyes too. "Wait, what¡¯s that?" Rong intercepted Shia¡¯s outstretched hand, sidestepping around him with surprising agility. Her suspicious gaze locked onto the object on the sofa as she reached for it. ''Major crisis!'' How had she caught him red-handed? Was his carefully plotted path to victory already about to crumble into failure? --- Rong¡¯s eyes widened as she picked up the delicate object. She examined it carefully, then looked at Shia with disbelief. Her gaze fell briefly to herself. ''The flat-chested princess took a direct hit.'' "Is this even wearable?" What kind of ''field'' would need a net this size? Impossible! Absolutely impossible! Rong struggled to reconcile the truth, her mind reeling as she clutched the small item tightly. Meanwhile, Shia misinterpreted her reaction entirely. He awkwardly scratched his nose, attempting to come up with an excuse. "Ahem, I haven¡¯t been sleeping well lately, so I bought... uh, a sleep mask." The lie was painfully weak. As a girl, Rong clearly recognized what the item actually was. But the size... She couldn¡¯t accept reality. Denial overtook her reasoning, and she chose to believe Shia¡¯s flimsy excuse without hesitation. She looked at the item in her hand, then back at Shia. "Your sleep mask is... really big. Did you get scammed?" Rather than accept the obvious, she clung to his excuse as if her life depended on it. Shia, stunned, realized that his half-baked lie had actually worked. ''Wow, that¡¯s... unexpectedly pitiful,'' he thought. --- Meanwhile... After Shia left with Diana, Lilith was in absolute turmoil. Just imagining Shia living in a luxurious villa, basking in the affection of a gorgeous older woman... Her jealousy burned bright. She wanted nothing more than to take his place! Her expression hardened with resolve. Tia, observing her mistress¡¯s sudden intensity, felt a wave of panic. Had her secret habit of collecting Lilith¡¯s... unwashed belongings been discovered?! "I¡¯ve decided. As his fianc¨¦e, I must fulfill my duties!" Tia blinked in confusion. "Huh?" Lilith had already made up her mind. She couldn¡¯t keep using the heavy-handed approach. She needed to show Shia her kindness, her gentleness, and her considerate side. Tia, thoroughly baffled, wondered why her mistress¡¯s attitude toward that "loser" had shifted so drastically. Of course, it was because Shia had become valuable. Previously, she¡¯d forced him to bow and apologize to curry favor with her juniors. Now, with him living in a grand villa and backed by the academy headmistress, she couldn¡¯t afford not to change tactics. Swallowing her pride wasn¡¯t shameful¡ªit was a strategy. Switching faces was child¡¯s play for her. Thus began Mary Sue¡¯s dramatic pursuit of her "husband"! --- ''Location:'' The villa gate at Arlingue Mountain. ''Cast:'' Lilith and Shia. As Shia stepped out of the villa, a figure rushed toward him, catching him off guard. Lilith¡¯s eyes were slightly red, her big, watery gaze brimming with unshed tears. She wore a red dress with a plunging V-neckline and delicate straps, exposing her soft, alluring shoulders. The dress gave her a gentle, girl-next-door charm, her whole demeanor radiating warmth and vulnerability. But the sadness and hesitation on her face tugged at the heartstrings, stirring an irresistible urge to comfort her. "Darling, what will it take for you to forgive me?" Shia¡¯s response? A cold, indifferent stare. ''Shia¡¯s thoughts:'' ''Forgive her? I barely have time to pity myself.'' This manipulative woman had tormented him for so long. Now, finally, he could face her on his own terms instead of being force-fed nonsense by the game developers. "Senior, please behave yourself." "Shia, won¡¯t you even call me ¡®darling¡¯ anymore?" "Senior, if anyone else sees this, it could tarnish your reputation." "Won¡¯t you forgive me?" Shia gave her a cold, steady gaze, saying nothing. Lilith lowered her eyes, her expression a mix of sorrow and hesitation. She bit her lip, wrestling with her emotions before finally making up her mind. "Shia, tell me what I need to do to make it up to you." "Whatever you ask for, I¡¯ll do it!" Shia, initially planning to walk away, froze mid-step at her words. --- He turned around and gave his fianc¨¦e a long, deliberate look. Her outfit was deceptively simple¡ªa short dress with a wide hemline that barely covered her mid-thighs. Her long, slender legs were pressed close together, forming an elegant, tempting curve. Her narrow waist and perfectly proportioned figure seemed almost unreal. Golden hair cascaded down her back, framing her breathtakingly beautiful face, which was lightly flushed. Every now and then, she glanced up at him with a shy yet determined gaze, her demeanor exuding both vulnerability and courage. Lilith bit her lip and took a small step forward, subtly revealing more of her shapely legs wrapped in sheer black stockings. The stockings seemed especially thin today, the glossy material clinging to her skin and hinting at the smoothness beneath. They were so tantalizingly fragile that they practically begged to be torn apart. Then, slowly, she lowered herself to the ground. Looking up at Shia, her movements caused the fabric at her knees to stretch and turn almost transparent. Her golden curls framed her delicate face as she knelt, gazing at him with wide, pleading eyes. --- Shia¡¯s expression shifted to one of amusement as he looked at her. ''The first step in taming this golden retriever?'' ''Initiated.'' Chapter 59: Endless Struggles, Mary Sue Ultimately Chooses to Compromise (1) Chapter 59: Endless Struggles, Mary Sue Ultimately Chooses to Compromise (1) ¡°Any request, really?¡± Lilith¡¯s eyes brightened slightly, the excitement flickering across her stunning features. She nodded repeatedly, her golden hair cascading around her shoulders with the movement. The sunlight kissed her hair, sending radiant highlights onto her flawless, doll-like face, enhancing her already mesmerizing charm. ¡°Then, how about you please me a little?¡± Before Lilith could answer, Shia interrupted with a smug smirk. ¡°Like a little puppy¡ªwag your tail for me.¡± Lilith¡¯s smile froze. Her wide, shimmering eyes filled with disbelief as she stared at Shia, stunned into silence. It took her a moment to process what he had just said, but her body stiffened with indignation. ¡°Absolutely not!¡± she snapped, shaking her head vehemently. Although she couldn¡¯t pinpoint where everything had gone wrong recently, Lilith was sure of one thing: she could not afford to make another mistake. As a trainer, she knew how to coax loyalty, reward obedience, and maintain control, but pandering to the whims of the "dog" would only confuse the natural hierarchy. It would lead to the unsettling possibility of her ¡°dog¡± thinking it could rule over her. Her pride as a top-tier trainer wouldn¡¯t allow it. ¡°If you like watching a dog wag its tail so much, then¡ why not let Tia do it?¡± she offered with an almost dismissive tone. When Tia arrived at her lady¡¯s summons, she was utterly perplexed. Her cold, aloof demeanor gave way to visible confusion as her sharp eyes landed on Shia. ¡°Why is this annoying nobody here?¡± she muttered under her breath. After listening to Lilith¡¯s ¡°plan,¡± Tia¡¯s eyes widened, and her usually frosty expression cracked into outright disbelief. She turned toward her mistress with visible distress.Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site. ¡°You want me to¡ for him?¡± she began to protest, her voice faltering. But Lilith¡¯s doe-eyed sorrowful expression immediately silenced her. ¡°Tia, I know this is difficult for you,¡± Lilith said, her voice tinged with helplessness. Her hands reached out to clasp Tia¡¯s, her delicate fingers trembling slightly. ¡°But right now, only you can help me.¡± Lilith leaned closer, her gaze soft and full of vulnerability. Her large, tearful eyes seemed to plead with Tia, her soft, pink lips trembling ever so slightly. The closeness made Tia painfully aware of Lilith¡¯s scent¡ªa faint floral perfume that was both intoxicating and comforting. ¡°There was a misunderstanding between Shia and me,¡± Lilith continued, lowering her voice as her eyes darted toward Shia standing a few feet away. ¡°He mistook my kindness for malice. You know, Tia, that he¡¯s the academy¡¯s new top student, someone even the headmaster respects greatly.¡± Lilith¡¯s tone turned somber as she added, ¡°If I don¡¯t mend things between us and he decides to retaliate later¡ I¡¯ll have no way to protect myself.¡± Her words were laced with desperation as she looked back into Tia¡¯s eyes. ¡°Tia, you are the one I trust the most. You¡¯re my closest, most loyal companion. Please, you¡¯ll help me, won¡¯t you?¡± Tia¡¯s icy composure melted entirely under her mistress¡¯s plea. Her knees felt weak, and her heart raced as she tried to steady herself. She could feel her legs trembling, as if standing on clouds, while her head swam with a single, overwhelming thought: ''My lady is in distress, and I¡¯m the only one who can save her.'' Tia swallowed hard, nodding fervently, her resolve unshaken. Her devotion to Lilith burned brighter than any indignation she felt toward Shia. If this was the price to protect her goddess-like mistress, she would bear it without hesitation. From a distance, Shia watched the exchange, his arms crossed as a bemused smile played on his lips. ''This poor, deluded maid¡ she¡¯s being played so easily, and she can¡¯t even see it,'' he thought, barely suppressing a chuckle. ''Lilith¡¯s manipulation is almost impressive.'' Yet, despite his amusement, Shia refused to accept the offer. Lilith¡¯s attempt to pass the responsibility onto Tia was, in his eyes, a transparent dodge. ¡°No,¡± he said flatly. ¡°She¡¯s not the one I want. It¡¯s you.¡± Tia, who had mentally prepared herself for the worst, froze at his words. Her head whipped around to look at Lilith, her expression frantic and uncertain. ¡°My lady¡ what do we do now?¡± her wide, tearful eyes seemed to ask. Lilith¡¯s own composure faltered, a rare crack appearing in her carefully constructed facade. She hadn¡¯t anticipated Shia¡¯s unwavering stance. ''This bastard¡ he dares reject my solution?'' she thought, her fists clenching by her sides. ''Does he truly expect me, the proud heiress of the Guen family, to stoop so low?'' Tia, her trusted personal maid, was someone Lilith considered a high-caliber asset, a reflection of her own prestigious status. To have Tia grovel in such a degrading way should have been more than sufficient to appease Shia. But no¡ªhe wanted ''her'' to do it. ¡°Shia, you¡¯ve changed,¡± Lilith said, her voice tinged with indignation. Shia¡¯s expression remained unyielding as he crossed his arms. ¡°You¡¯re the one who made the mistake, not her. I want ''your'' apology.¡± His tone left no room for negotiation, and Lilith knew she was cornered. For the first time, she felt powerless in a situation where she had always held control. She bit her lip, struggling with her pride, before finally stomping her foot in frustration and storming off. --- Lilith¡¯s retreat didn¡¯t signify defeat. Shia knew her too well¡ªshe was too stubborn to give up entirely. Instead, he waited, confident that she would find another angle to approach him. As expected, Lilith soon sought out an alternative method to sway Shia. This time, she turned to Ella, her respected mentor and one of the academy¡¯s esteemed figures. Lilith¡¯s plea was laced with manipulation, painting herself as the victim in a tragic misunderstanding. Through her teary voice, she spun a tale that portrayed Shia as the cold-hearted one, accusing him of discarding their long-standing bond for the allure of newfound power and attention. Chapter 60: Endless Struggles, Mary Sue Ultimately Chooses to Compromise (2) Chapter 60: Endless Struggles, Mary Sue Ultimately Chooses to Compromise (2) ¡°Teacher, I¡¯ve done everything for him,¡± Lilith lamented over the phone, her voice trembling. ¡°I only wanted the best for him, for ''us''. But now, he¡¯s turned away from me.¡± She continued, ¡°I understand¡ he¡¯s young and impressionable. He¡¯s the academy¡¯s top student now, and so many women are vying for his attention. But I¡¯ve been with him since the beginning¡ does that mean nothing?¡± Lilith¡¯s impassioned speech would have swayed anyone who didn¡¯t know her true nature. But the silence on the other end of the call was telling. ¡°Teacher? Are you listening?¡± she asked, her tone sharper now. ¡°Yes¡ I¡¯m listening,¡± came Ella¡¯s voice, though it sounded faint and distracted. Lilith¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°Teacher, please. You¡¯re the one person he might still respect. Can¡¯t you talk to him and help resolve this misunderstanding?¡± The line went quiet again, and Lilith¡¯s irritation grew. She could hear faint, shallow breaths on the other end. ¡°Teacher, are you even paying attention?!¡± she snapped, her frustration spilling over. What Lilith couldn¡¯t see was Ella, slumped against her desk, her violet hair clinging to her flushed, sweat-dampened skin. Her ample chest heaved as she struggled to suppress her ragged breathing. The tension in her voice hinted at something far removed from Lilith¡¯s plight. Ella bit her lip, her voice faint as she finally muttered, ¡°I¡ I¡¯ll think about it.¡± According to Shia, Ella¡¯s current state was due to accumulated stress and overwork. While it didn¡¯t show outwardly, her body suffered from various minor issues that needed careful, gradual recovery. Thanks to Shia¡¯s consistent and unyielding actions in the past, Ella had begun to take his advice and arrangements seriously. She hadn¡¯t even realized that she was subtly growing accustomed to following his lead. At this moment, Ella lay on her back near the bed, her pale, flawless arms raised to cover her face. The delicate skin of her fingers trembled slightly as she gripped her phone tightly, her knuckles turning white. Her other hand held the phone to her ear, while her body writhed with frustration.The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. Her posture exuded an alluring vulnerability as she muttered inwardly, ''Why does Lilith¡¯s call always have to come at such inconvenient moments?!'' --- Afterwards. Ella sat upright in front of Shia, her long, shapely legs crossed elegantly beneath her. She wore a fitted white dress with a plunging V-neckline that hugged her curves in all the right places. Despite her stern expression, her flushed cheeks and the pink hue of her skin betrayed the lingering warmth from the earlier massage. ¡°Explain yourself! What have you done now?¡± she demanded sharply, her voice laced with authority. Though her words carried an edge, her tone softened unintentionally, adding a faint, sultry undertone that clashed with her intended severity. Shia merely looked at her with his deep, penetrating gaze, his silence more commanding than any response. The weight of his stare made Ella¡¯s heart skip a beat, filling her with a sudden self-doubt she didn¡¯t want to acknowledge. ¡°What?¡± she snapped, trying to sound unaffected. ¡°Don¡¯t you trust me?¡± His response was cool, with a faint hint of mockery. ¡°If you don¡¯t believe me, then don¡¯t force yourself to.¡± Ella bit her lip, a twinge of guilt gnawing at her. She couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that Shia¡¯s attitude was meant to test her loyalty. She threw him a resentful glance, her voice growing softer. ¡°Can¡¯t you explain yourself, just once?¡± Shia leaned back against the sofa, his posture relaxed, yet commanding. ¡°Why should I? If my actions aren¡¯t enough to convince you, no amount of words will.¡± Ella¡¯s frustration simmered as she felt his control over the situation. Her heart ached as she thought, ''Does he really see me as someone so easily swayed?'' Meanwhile. Lilith sent Shia a message inviting him to meet her again in the evening. [Shia, we¡¯ve known each other since childhood. I don¡¯t want something so trivial to destroy our bond. Let¡¯s have a proper talk, okay?] However, Lilith had ulterior motives. She also invited Ella to act as a mediator, hoping that her mentor would side with her against Shia. Of course, Lilith conveniently left this detail out of her message to Shia. But Shia, who was still with Ella, saw through Lilith¡¯s little scheme. He glanced at the slightly annoyed and faintly flustered Ella sitting nearby and decided to accept Lilith¡¯s invitation. When Lilith received his affirmative response, a smug smile spread across her face. ''Teacher has been my mentor for so long. Her connection to Shia is nothing compared to ours. After my heartfelt phone call, she¡¯ll surely take my side. My mentor will reprimand him, and with a bit of sweet-talking, I¡¯ll have him right where I want him,'' she thought confidently. Lilith arrived at the agreed meeting place in high spirits, her self-assured demeanor evident in every step. She wore a silk red slip dress, the soft fabric clinging to her curves. Her golden hair cascaded down her back, with a single strand teasingly resting against her cleavage, drawing attention to her ample chest. Her delicate face carried an air of sorrow, but if one looked closely, there was a glint of triumph in her eyes. She turned toward Ella, her face full of hopeful expectation. ¡°Teacher,¡± she began, her voice tinged with both trust and urgency. ''Surely you¡¯ll stand up for me,'' she thought smugly. Ella, dressed in a simple yet elegant white sleeveless dress, exuded an air of refined grace. Her slender arms were bare, and her violet hair shimmered like silk under the soft lighting. Despite the simplicity of her attire, it only accentuated her mature, womanly charm. Her sharp gaze and composed demeanor gave her an air of authority. Lilith felt a surge of satisfaction as she envisioned Ella reprimanding Shia. She could almost hear the stern words her mentor would use to put him in his place. But as Ella began to speak, Lilith¡¯s confidence wavered. ¡°You are both my students, and as your instructor and mentor, I feel it¡¯s my responsibility to address this,¡± Ella said, her gaze drifting toward Shia. Lilith¡¯s fists clenched under the table in anticipation. But Ella¡¯s next words were not what Lilith expected. ¡°Lilith,¡± Ella turned her sharp gaze toward her, her voice calm but resolute. ¡°As your teacher, there are things I¡¯ve refrained from saying because they pertain to your personal matters.¡± Lilith¡¯s smile faltered slightly . ''Why does this feel¡ off?'' Chapter 61: Endless Struggles, Mary Sue Ultimately Chooses to Compromise (3) Chapter 61: Endless Struggles, Mary Sue Ultimately Chooses to Compromise (3) ¡°Since you invited me to act as the mediator, it¡¯s my duty as a teacher to guide my students,¡± Ella began, her voice calm but authoritative. ¡°Shia is your fianc¨¦. How can you harbor such doubts about him?¡± ¡°When you start with suspicion, it¡¯s only natural that everything will seem like his fault.¡± ¡°But as a young woman, you should learn to rely on others and show more gentleness.¡± ¡°If you made a mistake, you need to apologize sincerely and admit your wrongs.¡± ¡°Shia isn¡¯t unreasonable. If you show the right attitude, he¡¯ll forgive you¡¡± Lilith¡¯s eyes widened as she listened, her breath catching in her throat. This sudden turn of events was beyond anything she had expected. ''My mentor is refusing to side with me?'' ''Not only that, she¡¯s scolding me¡ and defending Shia?!'' Lilith¡¯s gaze turned hollow, and her body swayed slightly as if struck by a thunderbolt. Her thin, silken dress clung to her trembling form, amplifying the sense of vulnerability that overtook her. ''How could this happen?'' Lilith thought bitterly. ''All these years of being her student, and yet it doesn¡¯t compare to the short time she¡¯s known him?'' Tears threatened to well in her eyes, though she quickly blinked them away. The betrayal she felt cut deep. She clenched her fists beneath the table, the delicate fabric of her dress tightening over her thighs as she shifted uncomfortably. --- Shia, observing this, was silently thankful for Ella¡¯s unintentional support. Never one to waste time, his gratitude quickly translated into action. Beneath the table, his foot slid closer, brushing lightly against the smooth black silk covering Ella¡¯s legs. The sensation of her stockings¡¯ silken texture brought a smirk to his lips.You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story. Ella immediately stiffened, her already upright posture becoming even more rigid. Her earlier reprimands carried an air of severity, but now, with this unexpected contact, her composure began to falter. Her voice, though still firm, carried a faint tremor as she continued addressing Lilith. ¡°You need to reflect on your actions, Lilith,¡± she said, her tone taking on a sharper edge, a direct consequence of her tense state. Lilith, pouting and on the verge of tears, glanced up at Ella with an expression of betrayal. ''You¡¯re my mentor. Why are you being so harsh on me?'' ''Why are you defending him so strongly?'' She couldn¡¯t help but wonder, ''Could Ella have feelings for Shia too?'' The thought sent a wave of bitterness coursing through her. Ella, meanwhile, was internally panicking. Shia¡¯s ¡°gratitude¡± beneath the table was relentless, and despite her best efforts to maintain her composure, she found it increasingly difficult to focus. Her slender legs, clad in glossy black stockings, pressed together tightly in a futile attempt to resist. Her gaze flicked toward Shia, her eyes pleading for him to stop. Yet the moisture shimmering in her pupils and the slight parting of her lips betrayed a conflicted response that lacked any real authority. Shia¡¯s smirk widened. ¡°Don¡¯t overthink it. This is just my way of saying thanks,¡± he mouthed silently. Ella¡¯s fingers gripped the edge of the table until her knuckles turned white. She felt powerless¡ªunable to retaliate with Lilith watching her every move. A single misstep might expose the compromising situation under the table. ''Why is he so shameless?'' she thought, her mind spiraling. ''How can he do this with such confidence?'' --- Lilith, meanwhile, misinterpreted the entire scene. To her, Ella¡¯s stern demeanor only reinforced the belief that her mentor was siding with Shia for personal reasons. The bitterness in her heart deepened. ¡°Lilith,¡± Ella called out sharply, her voice cutting through the younger woman¡¯s thoughts. ¡°Do you still fail to see your mistakes?¡± Lilith bit her lip, struggling to suppress her anger. ''What mistakes?'' she thought indignantly. ''Shia¡¯s demands were unreasonable!'' Her original plan to use Ella as an ally had completely backfired. Instead of chastising Shia, her mentor had turned against her, leaving Lilith feeling isolated and betrayed. --- Ella¡¯s body, however, betrayed her further. The unrelenting pressure beneath the table caused her resolve to waver. Her legs, trembling from exertion, eventually relaxed, and a faint flush crept across her cheeks. She felt a pang of shame as she realized how accustomed she was becoming to Shia¡¯s unconventional methods of ¡°gratitude.¡± ''It¡¯s just a massage¡ nothing more,¡± she tried to convince herself. ''It¡¯s not as though he¡¯s crossed any serious lines¡ right?'' Her thoughts drifted as she clung to these justifications, allowing Shia to continue his covert actions undeterred. Meanwhile, Lilith¡¯s frustration reached its peak. ¡°Fine,¡± she muttered under her breath. Lowering her head, she typed furiously on her phone. Her slender fingers hovered over her thighs, the delicate fabric of her stockings wrinkling slightly with each motion. ''If this is what it takes, I¡¯ll agree¡ for now,'' she thought bitterly. --- Shia¡¯s phone buzzed, and he casually glanced at the screen. Seeing Lilith¡¯s message, he smirked. [Your conditions, I agree to them.] He looked up at her, his dark eyes glinting with satisfaction. Beneath the table, his actions stilled for a brief moment as he allowed Ella a reprieve. His gaze locked with Lilith¡¯s, who avoided his eyes, her expression a mix of anger and reluctant submission. Shia¡¯s fingers danced over his phone screen, crafting a response. Moments later, Lilith¡¯s phone vibrated again. [See? That wasn¡¯t so hard.] Her heart burned with indignation as she read the message, but before she could respond, another text arrived: [However, your attempt to escape the consequences has displeased me. The conditions have now escalated.]
A Special Thank You!: I want to extend my deepest gratitude to [Jackie Tarrier], for supporting me on Patreon!Chapter 62: The First Lesson in a Dog’s Life, Completely Exhausted (1) Chapter 62: The First Lesson in a Dog¡¯s Life, Completely Exhausted (1) Lilith froze. ¡°How can this even be possible?¡± Shia responded calmly, his tone carrying a hint of teasing. ¡°Of course, it¡¯s possible.¡± Lilith raised her head, her golden hair swaying slightly as she looked at Shia. His expression was composed, a faint eyebrow raised, adding to his air of confidence. Lilith''s expression turned blank. Such an outrageous demand¡ and it could escalate even further? What exactly does he want¡ She noticed Shia¡¯s hand still poised over his phone screen, typing leisurely. Her heart tightened, her eyes widened, and her red lips parted slightly in disbelief. ¡°Huh?¡± The phone buzzed. She glanced down at the screen and then looked back up, her face blank. Her lips parted even wider in shock. ¡°What??¡± Her mind churned like a stormy sea, waves crashing uncontrollably. Before claiming his victory, Shia needed to help Ella leave. In Shia¡¯s words: ¡°Aunt Ella has worked so hard running around for our relationship. It¡¯s only right to see her off.¡± In Ella¡¯s words: ¡°I¡¯m getting old. Sitting for so long makes my body stiff.¡± Indeed, Ella could barely move her legs. Her entire body leaned against Shia for support as he guided her out. Now that their issues were resolved, the rest was no longer her concern. And she deeply felt she couldn¡¯t stay any longer. The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation. Otherwise, she might actually lose her standing as Lilith¡¯s mentor right in front of her. Clearly, this brat was still Lilith¡¯s fianc¨¦, yet he showed no restraint, daring to act so boldly under her very nose... Ella thought bitterly, casting a reproachful glance at Shia. Her current state, where she couldn¡¯t even walk properly, was all his fault! Yet, he carried on as if nothing had happened. Lilith didn¡¯t think much of it. It wasn¡¯t because she trusted her mentor and Shia implicitly, but because she was preoccupied with Shia¡¯s excessive demands. Shock lingered in her heart, leaving her dazed for a long time. The original request had already been outrageous, and now it was escalating further. Was he really asking her to do that? On one hand, she wanted to secure the affection of her "dog"; on the other, she sought the journey of self-discovery Shia could provide. But¡ it was such a difficult choice! She bit her lip, caught in a whirlpool of indecision and weighing the pros and cons. Could she really make such a huge sacrifice? Meanwhile, the graceful silhouette of Ella leaned against Shia¡¯s tall frame, her delicate curves accentuated by the contrast. The two walked out of the restaurant and turned the corner, the evening breeze brushing against their faces. The cold wind helped Ella regain some clarity. Wait, why was she letting this brat manipulate and bully her again? She turned her head, ready to warn Shia. ¡°If you dare act recklessly again, I¡¯m really going to¡ª mmph!¡± Before she could finish, Shia cut her off with another forceful kiss. It was a deep and deliberate exchange, silencing all of her unfinished protests. Only his most sincere gratitude remained, while her earlier anger softened under his dominance. The delicate body in his arms gradually grew weaker, her strength drained away. By the time Ella was left breathless, her fair and gentle face had turned bright red. Her heaving chest rose and fell erratically, the soft mounds of her ample bosom trembling with each shallow gasp. Only then did Shia release her. Ella couldn¡¯t even muster the strength to stand, let alone continue scolding him. Looking at the mature woman now limp in his arms, Shia felt a surge of satisfaction from deep within. He leaned closer to Ella¡¯s ear, his warm breath brushing against her flushed earlobe, sending shivers down her spine. ¡°I prefer working with people who are a bit more cooperative.¡± Ella understood the implication behind his words, and her face flushed even deeper. ¡°Aunt Ella, you look stunning tonight.¡± Her simple white dress paired with glossy black stockings radiated an irresistible allure, embodying the perfect blend of elegance and sensuality. It was impossible not to feel like teasing her a little. Shia¡¯s sense of accomplishment soared. Being complimented so boldly by someone younger, Ella couldn¡¯t help but feel her heartbeat quicken. A slight blush crept across her face, though it was difficult to tell if it was lingering embarrassment from the kiss or genuine shyness. For a moment, she even forgot her identity. Like a young girl experiencing her first love, her heart raced solely for him. As Shia¡¯s charm continued to rise, the influence of the magical ring on Ella grew stronger. With his heartfelt praise, Ella¡¯s delicate heart was already in turmoil. Having lost her husband shortly after marriage, she had never truly experienced love. Now, for the first time, she understood what it felt like to be moved. The sensation¡ was indescribable. She felt so shy she wanted to hide, yet her heart felt sweet and warm. But no amount of sweetness could overshadow how excessive Shia¡¯s behavior had been. She pursed her lips, feeling a faint sting. Her delicate fingers instinctively brushed against her lips, immediately noticing the difference. Her lips were swollen. This brat! Ella shot him a resentful glare. ¡°How am I supposed to go out and face people now?¡± Her dignity as an older woman had once again been trampled. Perhaps the earlier romantic excitement had stirred memories of her late husband. Now, realizing how intimate her actions with Shia had been, she felt a pang of guilt toward her deceased spouse. But a small voice lingered in her heart. It wasn¡¯t her first kiss anymore¡ªwhether it was one kiss or two, did it really make much difference? After all, it wasn¡¯t like she¡¯d initiated it. That brat had forced it on her! Ella consoled herself with these thoughts. ¡°You look even prettier like this. Why would anyone mind?¡± Shia smirked, pinching her cheek lightly. The audacious gesture earned him a sharp glare from Ella. But deep down, she wasn¡¯t truly angry¡ªjust embarrassed and flustered. After sending Ella off, Shia returned to his room. Inside, Lilith was still wrestling with her own thoughts. Even though she had agreed, she couldn¡¯t help but cling to the faint hope of avoiding the punishment. When she heard the sound of the door opening, she was startled. ¡°Are we going to your room or the one I stayed in before?¡± Lilith bit her lip but eventually relented. ¡°Your room.¡± At least it felt more private that way. ''If it happened in the living room... it would be way too embarrassing and humiliating.'' This was because Shia¡¯s condition was simple yet outrageous¡ªto be his obedient "dog" for an hour. A dog that listened, obeyed, and even sought to please its owner! Chapter 63: The First Lesson in a Dog’s Life, Completely Exhausted (2) Chapter 63: The First Lesson in a Dog¡¯s Life, Completely Exhausted (2) Initially, it was just about wagging her tail. But now, the demand had escalated to include a full hour of this humiliating act. However, Lilith wasn¡¯t going to accept everything without a fight. She attempted to negotiate. ¡°An hour is too long! Half an hour!¡± Being able to cut the time in half was still a win in her book. ¡°And,¡± she added with a sharp glare, ¡°you¡¯re not allowed to have any inappropriate contact with me.¡± Her face was full of vigilance as she scanned Shia up and down. Then, as if trying to justify herself, she explained, ¡°I have to stay pure until marriage! It¡¯s a tradition in my family.¡± Although her tone was serious, Shia snorted dismissively. ¡°Heh~!¡± ''Tradition?'' Back in the game, when you were hooking up with heroines behind closed doors and had me guarding the door, I didn¡¯t hear you mention any traditions then! Still, despite his disdain, Shia nodded. ¡°Fine.¡± Lilith suddenly felt a pang of regret. He agreed so easily? Did she not push hard enough during her negotiation? If she¡¯d asked him to lower his demands further, could he have agreed? The golden-haired young lady¡¯s eyes darted back and forth, clearly plotting something. ¡°Don¡¯t even think about it. The terms are final.¡± Shia¡¯s lazy voice crushed her hopes of further bargaining. If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. Thus began the first phase of "dog training" for his fianc¨¦, the golden-haired Mary Sue. ¡°I¡¯m a democratic person,¡± Shia said as he pulled out two options. One was a black collar and leash; the other was a full dog costume. Lilith¡¯s heart sank when she saw he¡¯d prepared both. He had planned this all along, hadn¡¯t he?! ¡°Choose one,¡± Shia said casually. Lilith glanced at the two choices. Did she even need to think about it? Out of her pride as a human, she didn¡¯t even consider the leash. Her delicate finger pointed decisively at the dog costume. ¡°This one.¡± She failed to realize she was walking right into a trap. Her original plan had been to keep negotiating. But now, she was already picking out her punishment outfit! Carrying the outfit, Lilith walked into the dressing room and obediently changed. The costume featured golden fur ears and a matching golden tail, perfectly complementing her luscious blonde hair, as though it had been custom-made for her. The stunning young woman now donned a red strapless mini dress paired with black stockings, her golden waves cascading down her back. On her head, the golden dog ears twitched adorably. Bending slightly, her outfit accentuated the curves of her chest, the strapless design framing the soft hills of her ample breasts. Her long, stocking-clad legs bent gracefully, and as she moved, her tail swayed enticingly with her figure¡ªa mix of innocence and seductive charm. Lilith couldn¡¯t help admiring her reflection in the mirror. This look would definitely appeal to a strong, independent woman, wouldn¡¯t it? A powerful, mature woman surely couldn¡¯t resist such a well-behaved and clingy ¡°dog,¡± right? Yes, this was just a practice run! With that thought in mind, Lilith cheerfully began her first lesson as Shia¡¯s ¡°dog.¡± Shia sat on a chair, holding a pointer stick in his hand. Its flexibility made it look quite similar to a whip. Lilith knelt on the floor, crawling slowly. With every movement, her hips swayed, making her tail wag in time. ¡°Come here,¡± Shia said, his voice calm but commanding. Lilith crawled toward him cautiously. Although the soft carpet cushioned her knees, the floor beneath still felt hard. Still, it was tolerable. ¡°Sit.¡± Shia lowered the pointer stick, signaling her to stop. The golden-haired "dog" paused before sitting on her heels, her delicate hands supporting her weight on the floor. Her long golden hair spilled down her back like a radiant waterfall. ¡°Stick out your tongue.¡± Lilith hesitated, but eventually parted her lips slightly, revealing her soft, pink tongue. She mimicked the sound of a panting dog, her breath warm and rhythmic. ¡°Raise your hand.¡± The golden-haired "dog" lifted one hand, gently curling her fingers into a fist, her wrist lowered slightly. ¡°Spin.¡± Lilith obediently got back down, turning a full circle in place on her knees. ¡°Roll over.¡± Lilith hesitated briefly. Although she had explicitly stated there was to be no inappropriate contact, wasn¡¯t this command a bit too childish? Sure, for a real dog, this was a standard training exercise. But she wasn¡¯t an actual dog! ¡°Roll over!¡± Shia¡¯s voice grew firmer. Lilith, though reluctant, complied. She curled her body, rolling over on the floor. Her shapely legs bent gracefully as she rolled, her long hair cascading around her in a golden mess. The motion caused her already loose outfit to shift, exposing even more of her smooth, fair skin. Seeing her complete the action, Shia moved on to the next command. Each action was accompanied by the pointer stick¡¯s guidance, and the golden-haired ¡°dog¡± executed them all flawlessly. By the time she was done, Lilith was lightly sweating, her cheeks flushed from exertion and embarrassment. She couldn¡¯t help but complain internally. Was he really treating her like a dog? Wasn¡¯t this supposed to be a playful scenario, not an actual training session? As a beautiful young woman kneeling obediently in front of him, shouldn¡¯t he take the opportunity to ask for something more¡ indecent? Sure, she might refuse, but how could he not even try? Wasn¡¯t he supposed to use this chance to benefit from her humiliation? Instead, he was treating her like a literal dog! This was an insult to her charm and pride as a woman! Meanwhile, Shia couldn¡¯t help but roll his eyes internally. She really was a big golden retriever in spirit. These tasks were no challenge for her. If she weren¡¯t such a troublesome woman, he might have even praised her with a ¡°good dog.¡± But Lilith, despite her complaints, was secretly enjoying herself. ''Not only did she perfectly obey every command, but Lilith also found herself surprisingly enjoying it.'' What¡¯s so bad about being a dog, after all? It let her please someone she liked and even receive affection in return. All she had to do was act like a carefree puppy and have fun¡ªit wasn¡¯t such a bad deal. In a way, this was a form of flexibility and adaptability, and she was getting quite good at it. Just moments ago, she had been reluctant and resistant, but now she was starting to embrace the role with genuine enjoyment. This made Shia question his reality a little. Was he rewarding her, or was he ac tually training her? Chapter 64: The First Lesson in a Dog’s Life, Completely Exhausted (3) Chapter 64: The First Lesson in a Dog¡¯s Life, Completely Exhausted (3) Just as the atmosphere began shifting in an oddly peculiar direction, a knock at the door interrupted them. ¡°Miss Lilith, are you inside?¡± Tia¡¯s voice came from outside the door. She had just returned and noticed Shia¡¯s shoes at the entrance. But with no sign of her mistress and the door to that ¡°useless fish¡¯s¡± room closed, a sense of crisis overwhelmed her. The moment Lilith heard Tia¡¯s voice, her body froze in panic. Her earlier carefree demeanor vanished, and she tensed up completely. Shia glanced down at her and smirked faintly. Finally, some variation in her emotions. So, this is her weak spot. Lilith was indeed nervous. Although she didn¡¯t yet fully understand her maid¡¯s peculiar tendencies, she knew Tia was her most loyal admirer. As her mistress, Lilith couldn¡¯t afford to lose her dignity in front of her. To be seen in such a degrading position by her devoted personal maid? Impossible. While being a dog in private could be enjoyable, doing so in front of someone she knew¡ªespecially her fanatical admirer¡ªwas simply unacceptable. Lilith¡¯s head shot up, her expression one of panic and desperation. Her pleading eyes silently begged Shia: Please don¡¯t let her know I¡¯m here. The mere thought of Tia discovering what was happening inside this room filled her with horror. Her dignity as a noble lady, her carefully maintained image¡ªthey would all be destroyed! Tia might never look at her the same way again. She¡¯d think about this moment every time she washed Lilith¡¯s clothes, every time she served her meals. The very idea was too terrifying to contemplate. ¡°Please,¡± Lilith whispered, her tone almost submissive, ¡°don¡¯t let her find out, okay?¡± She radiated an air of humility, so unlike her usual proud self.Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit. She couldn¡¯t bear the thought of Tia seeing her like this. It would be the end of her dignity, her pride, everything she¡¯d worked to uphold. Shia chuckled softly. Now this was more like it. Her earlier enjoyment had been far too much¡ªthis was the reaction he wanted. At that moment, Shia finally felt like he had a grasp on Lilith¡¯s true pressure points. Simply training her wasn¡¯t enough to affect her. But this need to maintain her image? That was a goldmine worth exploiting. ¡°If you¡¯re this concerned, how could I ever let you suffer such humiliation?¡± he said, his tone dripping with mock affection. ¡°After all, I love you deeply.¡± Shia reached out and patted the golden retriever¡¯s head, leaning closer to bridge the distance between them. His voice was soft, laced with a faint smile, and brimming with what seemed like genuine sentiment. Lilith stared at him, wide-eyed and stunned. For a moment, she was completely taken in by his words. Could it be that Shia really loved her this much? She failed to notice the masterful manipulation in his tone. Instead, her heart swelled with a strange satisfaction. See, he¡¯s just being stubborn. He loves me so much he wouldn¡¯t dare take things too far! If he loves me this much, then maybe I should show him some grace. After all, giving a loyal admirer a little encouragement isn¡¯t a bad thing¡ªit would only make him more devoted. With this thought in mind, Lilith began to rationalize her actions. She failed to realize that, in this moment, the ¡°dog¡± in question wasn¡¯t Shia¡ªit was herself. Shia noticed the smug expression creeping onto Lilith¡¯s face and smirked knowingly. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t want you to feel humiliated,¡± he said. ¡°So we¡¯ll have to find a way to fool her, won¡¯t we?¡± Lilith nodded obediently. ¡°You know your maid¡¯s personality. If she doesn¡¯t get a response, she¡¯s bound to barge in.¡± Lilith thought about Tia¡¯s temperament and agreed nervously. Her anxiety clouded her judgment, and she nodded again, eyes filled with a mix of hope and desperation. What should they do now? As the two whispered to each other, Tia, still waiting outside, grew increasingly uneasy. She knocked again, her voice more urgent. ¡°Miss Lilith, are you okay? Don¡¯t scare me¡ªsay something!¡± She was genuinely worried, fearing for her mistress¡¯s safety and deeply suspicious that the ¡°useless fish¡± might be bullying her. Just then, Shia spoke up. ¡°Your mistress isn¡¯t here. But I just got a golden retriever. Want to see it?¡± The sudden response made Tia¡¯s heart skip a beat. So that¡¯s what was going on! Inside the room, Shia patted Lilith¡¯s back, signaling her to bark. Lilith¡¯s face turned crimson, her fingers clutching the carpet tightly. Was she really going to do this? Despite her inner turmoil, she found herself obeying Shia¡¯s command. ¡°Woof¡ woof, woof!¡± Tia, listening from outside, couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that the bark sounded oddly familiar. But she dismissed it quickly. The moment she recognized Shia¡¯s voice, her usual disdain surfaced. ¡°Why are you here, useless fish?¡± ¡°This is my room. Why wouldn¡¯t I be here?¡± Shia replied lazily, stroking Lilith¡¯s head with an air of satisfaction. ¡°Miss Lilith kicked you out long ago. You¡¯re nothing but a stray dog. Stop pretending to matter.¡± ¡°So much hostility. You just want to see me, don¡¯t you?¡± ¡°You¡!¡± ¡°Tsk. I¡¯d rather spend time with my adorable golden retriever than entertain a foul-mouthed maid.¡± ¡°Right, golden retriever?¡± Lilith¡¯s fingers dug into the carpet in shame. Yet she still forced herself to reply: ¡°Woof.¡± Outside, Tia¡¯s sharp tongue clashed with Shia¡¯s smug tone. Inside, Lilith, her proud mistress, knelt and barked like a dog. Shia¡¯s sense of achievement soared to new heights. Yes, this scene was just perfect. Although Tia looked ready to storm in, she ultimately didn¡¯t. Finally, the crisis passed. Tia stomped her foot in frustration, biting her lip before walking away. Inside, Lilith listened to the fading footsteps and collapsed onto the floor in relief, utterly drained. Her body felt weak, her hair damp with sweat, clinging to her flushed face. A soft chuckle reached her ears, but she was too exhausted to care what Shia might have meant by it. Once her tense body relaxed, she realized how disheveled she was. Her stockings were sticky and uncomfortable. She stripped them off and threw them into the trash. After cleaning herself up, she climbed into bed, quickly drifting into sleep. Though the day had left her both physically and emotionally exhausted, the resolution brought her some relief. Tomorrow, she could fulfill their agreement at last. Even in her sleep, a faint smile graced her lips. The door opened silently. Tia entered, her white hair glowing faintly in the moonlight. She gazed at the sleeping Lilith, her stunning beauty captivating even now. Her eyes shone with adoration and longing. Such a noble mistress was beyond her reach. Just being near her, caring for her, and breathing her scent was enough. Her gaze fell to the trash bin, where the discarded stockings lay. Tia hesitated. Her hands moved as if to retrieve them, but stopped just short. They were dirty¡ªtainted by the touch of that loathsome man. Biting her lip, Tia withdrew her hand, torn between anger and sorrow. Chapter 65: The White-Haired Maid’s Shameful Punishment, Dragging the Noble Miss Down Too (1) Chapter 65: The White-Haired Maid¡¯s Shameful Punishment, Dragging the Noble Miss Down Too (1) Tia¡¯s gaze flickered as she stared at the stockings in the trash, her eyes filled with pain. Was she heartbroken over the stockings, or the one who had worn them? Did she truly not notice what had happened earlier? Or was it that she simply refused to acknowledge it? As if denying it outright would somehow make the reality less cruel. But beneath that veneer of denial burned a blazing anger. A murderous intent surged within her, more intense than she had ever felt before. Though she often disdained Shia, her fury and bloodlust only flared when she felt truly humiliated. But this time, it was different¡ªsomething she cherished deeply had been defiled. And by that loathsome man. Tia rose to her feet, her curvaceous and mature figure exuding an icy authority. Her face was cold and unyielding, carrying an overwhelming sense of pressure. Some matters, as a servant, she had to take into her own hands¡ªto ease her mistress¡¯s burdens. The moonlight bathed the cobblestone path, softening its edges with a faint glow. Footsteps approached. Shia strolled leisurely down the road leading to the Arlinger Mountain villa district. Only a hundred meters remained to the gate. But then, a wave of murderous intent rushed toward him. Shia¡¯s eyes locked on the figure that had suddenly appeared before him. Long, snow-white hair glimmered under the moonlight as though it were alight. Her cold, stunning face seemed carved from ice. Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. Her ample chest, barely hidden beneath her maid¡¯s uniform, rose and fell with suppressed rage. Her tall, full-bodied figure was accentuated by the sleek white stockings covering her shapely legs. The chill of her presence, combined with her icy beauty, gave her the appearance of a moonlit goddess¡ªmajestic and untouchable. But what drew the most attention were the gleaming daggers in her hands, reflecting the pale light ominously. Shia¡¯s gaze shifted from the blades to her eyes¡ªeyes filled with coldness, anger, and a deep-seated sorrow. They were the eyes of a vengeful goddess under the moonlight. It was clear she had been waiting here for quite some time. Shia, however, showed no surprise. Instead, he smirked and casually remarked, ¡°Oh? You brought weapons this time?¡± He had long anticipated this confrontation. Lilith, in her nervousness, had foolishly believed they had fooled Tia. But Shia wasn¡¯t that na?ve. The supposed "success" of their act earlier wasn¡¯t due to Tia being fooled¡ªit was because she refused to expose the truth. Not entirely for her mistress¡¯s dignity, but more because she herself couldn¡¯t bear to believe it. That clumsy imitation of a dog¡¯s bark? There was no way it could fool someone so familiar with Lilith. Even a stranger might have noticed it was human mimicry, let alone someone who worshipped Lilith to the point of obsession. Tia must have recognized Lilith¡¯s voice the moment she heard it. Shia couldn¡¯t help but wonder¡ªwhat was her expression like at that moment? Was her blood frozen in her veins? Amused by the thought, Shia grinned inwardly. Lilith might have feared being discovered, but not him. In fact, he felt a twisted sense of satisfaction. He had thoroughly enjoyed himself. But imagining Tia¡¯s internal turmoil was even more satisfying. The woman she adored, her noble mistress, had been reduced to barking like a dog for a man she despised. And Tia had been forced to listen, unable to intervene or walk away. What kind of torment must that have been for her? The heartbreak, the helplessness, the silent agony of hearing her beloved Lilith¡¯s pitiful cries, all while trying to convince herself it wasn¡¯t real... The thought of Tia¡¯s torment filled Shia with a dark satisfaction. Tia, however, didn¡¯t answer Shia¡¯s question. She didn¡¯t need to. Her actions spoke louder than words. Without warning, she moved. Fast, precise, and without hesitation, her daggers gleamed as she lunged forward. Her intent was clear¡ªshe wasn¡¯t here to talk. The sudden movement carried an almost suicidal determination. Tia¡¯s courage, to act so boldly for her mistress¡¯s honor, was commendable. But Shia had her figured out. Her cold demeanor? It was merely a fa?ade she used against those she perceived as weak. She was the kind of person who crumbled when met with greater force. Shia¡¯s smirk vanished, replaced by an icy expression. Facing her third-tier aura, he didn¡¯t retreat. Instead, he stepped forward, his gaze sharp as lightning, exuding a suffocating dominance. ¡°Do you dare lay a hand on me?¡± Under his piercing gaze, Tia faltered. Her steps slowed, her resolve wavered. As a servant, her very upbringing demanded absolute obedience to her master. No matter how much she hated Shia, he was still her mistress¡¯s fianc¨¦¡ªand, by extension, her master. In the past, Shia¡¯s mild-mannered personality and Lilith¡¯s disdain for him had allowed Tia to act with impunity. But now? The thought of Lilith, who once scorned him, now lowering herself to please him¡ªtonight, no less¡ªshook her deeply. Unbeknownst to her, Shia had already established an undeniable authority over her. Her initial anger and murderous intent had dissipated. By the time she stood before him, daggers still raised, her hands trembled with hesitation. The deep-rooted instincts of a servant clashed with her fury. She couldn¡¯t bring herself to strike. Her lips quivered, her body shivered with inner conflict. But Shia didn¡¯t hesitate. He raised his hand and slapped her without mercy. ¡°Smack!¡± The sound echoed sharply in the quiet night. Tia¡¯s head snapped to the side, her long white hair whipping around her flushed face. The sting burned her cheek, leaving it numb. Her elegant, icy features swelled noticeably from the impact. Her hand instinctively moved to touch her cheek, only for her fingers to flinch at the pain. ¡°Hiss...!¡± The agony overwhelmed her, but anger quickly replaced her hesitation. She had held back, unwilling to harm him. And this useless man dared strike her? Her restraint was born of years of servitude, but now even she couldn¡¯t understand why she had hesitated. Her emotions boiled¡ªanger at his trea tment of Lilith, and fury at his audacity to strike her. Chapter 66: The White-Haired Maid’s Shameful Punishment, Dragging the Noble Miss Down Too (2) Chapter 66: The White-Haired Maid¡¯s Shameful Punishment, Dragging the Noble Miss Down Too (2) But Shia¡¯s cold demeanor and sharp tone silenced her rage. ¡°Attacking your master without permission¡ªwhere did you learn such insolence?¡± His voice was as icy as the night air, cutting through her defiance. Tia flinched, her body trembling as though facing the head of the family. Her once-overbearing demeanor crumbled into fear and submission. ¡°As a maid, you dare to disrespect your master and act so arrogantly? Is this how the Guen family trains their servants?¡± ¡°Do you want to bring shame upon your mistress?¡± Tia¡¯s lips parted, but no words came. The honor of her family couldn¡¯t be tarnished. Yet Shia¡¯s words struck a nerve. She had failed her mistress, failed her role as a servant. Her gaze wavered, her body shook, and the daggers in her hands nearly slipped from her grip. Her mental defenses crumbled, leaving her vulnerable and exposed. Shia¡¯s voice rose sharply, carrying the weight of undeniable authority. ¡°Kneel and admit your mistake!¡± **"Thud!"** Without the slightest hesitation, driven by her instinct to obey, Tia dropped to her knees. The rough cobblestone path dug painfully into her legs, her hands releasing the daggers, leaving her prostrated on the ground with her forehead pressed against the stones. The once proud and defiant white-haired maid had been reduced to submission, stripped of her usual arrogance and sharp tongue. Wha t remained was obedience and fear. Even Tia herself couldn¡¯t fully understand why she felt so terrified of Shia.Stolen novel; please report. After all, he was just an ordinary man with no talent for cultivation. The thought was humiliating¡ªhow could she, someone so capable, be afraid of someone like him? She quickly rationalized it: It¡¯s for the mistress. Her earlier actions had been reckless, and if she truly went through with it, she would have disrupted her mistress¡¯s plans and given this "useless man" a reason to retaliate. Yes, this was all for her lady¡¯s sake. Tia clung to this excuse, deceiving herself to justify her submission. ¡°You¡¯re quite fond of your mistress, aren¡¯t you?¡± Shia crouched before her, his hand tilting her chin upward, forcing her to meet his gaze. His words struck a nerve. For a moment, Tia¡¯s icy composure crumbled as she felt he had peered into the deepest corners of her heart. Her body trembled, a shiver running down her spine. But Shia wasn¡¯t using this to threaten her. Instead, his lips curled into a mocking smile. ¡°Mere admiration won¡¯t get you anywhere. It will only widen the gap between you.¡± Tia didn¡¯t want to hear such nonsense. Her lady was her mistress¡ªa noblewoman she served loyally, someone far above her. As a servant, it wasn¡¯t her place to dream of anything more. Their statuses were worlds apart. Even being allowed to stay by her side, to serve her every day, felt like a blessing. Tia told herself this was enough. Her mistress was close to her, reliant on her, even trusting her to protect her when necessary. This closeness¡ªthey were already so intimate. How could they be drifting further apart? He¡¯s lying. The thought lit a spark of defiance in Tia¡¯s mind. Such secrets mustn¡¯t be exposed, especially not to this "useless man." ¡°I don¡¯t.¡± Her denial was swift, though her shaky voice betrayed her. Shia¡¯s mocking gaze remained fixed on her. It seemed to say, *I already know the truth. Denying it is pointless.* ¡°You think you¡¯re unworthy?¡± Tia pressed her lips together tightly, unwilling to respond. The humiliation of having someone she despised speak her innermost fears aloud was unbearable. She remained silent, stubbornly refusing to acknowledge his words. ¡°What if I were to bring her down to your level?¡± Her eyes widened slightly, shock flashing across her face. The idea was so audacious, so absurd, that she hadn¡¯t even considered it possible. But¡ a small part of her couldn¡¯t deny the appeal. Her mistress, the noble and elegant heir of the Guen family, standing on the same ground as her? Impossible. Shia pressed on, his voice dripping with temptation. ¡°You¡¯re too afraid to desire her because of the difference in status. But if I made her your equal, wouldn¡¯t that change things?¡± Tia¡¯s heart raced as she mulled over his words. What if, one day, she didn¡¯t have to look up to her mistress? The thought was intoxicating, even if she dared not admit it. Shia smirked as he pulled out his phone and tapped a few times. ¡°Let me show you something.¡± He turned the screen toward her, revealing a video. Her attention was immediately drawn to it. It was a recording of Lilith, her golden-haired mistress, crawling on all fours, clad in a dog costume. The sight of her wagging tail and obedient demeanor was almost surreal. Tia¡¯s eyes went wide, transfixed by the screen. The soft sound of Shia¡¯s voice dripped like poison in her ears. ¡°A mistress like this¡ªdo you still need to look up to her?¡± She stared at the screen, captivated by the sight. Her usually sharp eyes softened, almost glowing with a strange mix of disbelief and longing. This¡ this wasn¡¯t her noble mistress, was it? But the image was undeniable. Tia shook her head slightly, her mind a haze of confusion and temptation. For a brief moment, she imagined her mistress not as the untouchable figure she idolized but as someone kneeling before her, obedient and approachable. The mere possibility sent a shiver of excitement down her spine. If her mistress could be brought down to her level, then perhaps¡ The once steadfast loyalty of the white-haired maid wavered. Her heartbeat quickened, her breath hitched¡ªshe was tempted. Shia observed her closely, noting the glimmer of desire in her expression. His lips curved into a sly smile. He had planted the seed of an unthinkable idea in her mind. But just as quickly as the thought consumed her, Tia snapped out of it, violently shaking her head. ¡°No! I don¡¯t!¡± How could she even entertain such a filthy thought about her mistress? Her mistress was her goddess! Her body squirmed in protest, her rejection manifesting in her physical struggle. ¡°Disgusting bug! You won¡¯t drive a wedge between me and my lady!¡± Chapter 67: The White-Haired Maid’s Shameful Punishment, Dragging the Noble Miss Down Too (3) Chapter 67: The White-Haired Maid¡¯s Shameful Punishment, Dragging the Noble Miss Down Too (3) Despite her resistance, she was no match for Shia¡¯s strength. His hand that had gripped her chin now pressed firmly on her shoulder, pinning her down. No matter how hard she struggled, she couldn¡¯t break free. She continued to deny it, as if saying the words aloud could undo the truth she now knew about herself. As her struggles intensified, the seams of her pristine white stockings began to tear. Her plush thighs pressed against the fabric until the tear widened, exposing smooth, supple skin. The glimpse of flesh, framed by the tattered stockings, exuded a raw, sensual allure. Gradually, Tia¡¯s resistance weakened, her strength drained. She curled into herself, wrapping her arms tightly around her body. Her heart was torn¡ªyears of admiration and love for her mistress clashed with the dark temptations Shia had stirred. Shia straightened, looking down at the now-defeated ice queen. The sight of the once-proud maid reduced to a trembling, vulnerable mess sparked a twisted sense of triumph within him. ¡°Honestly, I¡¯m doing this for your sake. You¡¯re so devoted to her¡ªI just want to help you.¡± ¡°But since you insist on refusing¡¡± He smirked. ¡°I¡¯ll leave it at that.¡± ''Tia lifted her face, her delicate features still shadowed by lingering confusion, as she looked at Shia with surprise.'' Why had he suddenly changed his mind? Of course, he had a new idea in mind. ¡°How about I show you a side of your lady that no one else knows? Would you be interested?¡± Shia¡¯s smile was flawless, a perfect mask of allure and temptation. Tia swallowed hard despite herself. She knew she shouldn¡¯t agree, but the suggestion tugged at her curiosity. She wasn¡¯t betraying her mistress, was she? She just wanted to know more about her. Understanding Lilith better would help her serve her more thoroughly¡ right?Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings. That logic gave Tia just enough comfort to nod, albeit hesitantly. Shia loomed over her, his expression cool and indifferent. ¡°If I¡¯m doing you this favor, don¡¯t you think you should compensate me for earlier? How do you plan to make up for your reckless attack?¡± Tia froze, dumbfounded. Compensate? She had already knelt and apologized¡ªwhat more did he want? Her innocent confusion made her look unexpectedly harmless. Shia leaned down slightly, his hand reaching out to pinch her cheek. Her soft, supple skin yielded to his fingers, her collagen-rich face forming a slight indentation as he played with it. Her wide, puzzled eyes added an air of pure naivety. His thumb and middle finger pinched her cheek while his index finger traced along her plump, red lips. Her lips were warm and full, soft under his touch. Shia¡¯s gaze lingered there for a moment before locking eyes with her. Tia quickly understood what he wanted but refused to accept it. ¡°No, no way! It¡¯s too humiliating!¡± She shook her head and bit her lip, her voice quivering. Shia wasn¡¯t moved. ¡°Repeating the same punishment won¡¯t teach a lesson.¡± ¡°You learned last time, yet here you are repeating your mistakes.¡± ¡°Only by doubling the consequences will the lesson stick.¡± He shrugged lightly. ¡°Of course, I¡¯m all about giving people choices. If you¡¯re unwilling, I won¡¯t force you. The decision is yours.¡± The moonlight reflected in Tia¡¯s eyes, casting Shia¡¯s silhouette against her vision. Her heart wavered, struggling with the decision. She didn¡¯t want to agree, but¡ the thought of seeing Lilith¡¯s hidden side was too enticing. Eventually, Tia gave in, muttering an apology as she knelt before him. Her white hair spilled down her back, framing her trembling form as her maid¡¯s uniform shifted to reveal the enticing curves of her chest. From Shia¡¯s higher vantage point, he could glimpse the soft swells that peeked over her neckline. The once pristine white stockings she wore had torn at the seams, exposing smooth, creamy skin beneath. Her plush thighs spilled slightly through the frayed openings, the exposed flesh glinting in the moonlight with an unintended sensual allure. Tia¡¯s hands moved nervously, and she swallowed hard. ¡°I¡ I have a condition.¡± Shia raised an eyebrow. ¡°Go on.¡± She hesitated before blurting out, ¡°That video¡ªI want a copy.¡± Her heart pounded at her audacity. The video had stirred something deep inside her. ¡°Fine.¡± ¡°And¡ you have to delete yours!¡± ¡°Agreed.¡± Shia¡¯s calm acceptance left Tia both relieved and elated. That video of Lilith¡ªher mistress so soft, obedient, and utterly adorable¡ªit was a treasure she could cherish forever. With the terms settled, a strange transaction between Shia and Tia was completed under the cover of night. --- cough, cough!¡± In the quiet of the night, the sound of a girl¡¯s coughing broke the silence. Tia, the white-haired maid, knelt on the ground, her hand pressed against her chest as she caught her breath. Her lips curled in mild disgust as she wiped at her mouth, but her other hand clutched her phone like a precious relic. She tapped the screen, playing the video Shia had just sent her. On the screen, Lilith moved¡ªkneeling, crawling, her actions soft and obedient. Her radiant beauty and delicate features paired with her submissive demeanor created an image too captivating to ignore. Tia stared, her eyes glazed with fascination. She reached out, her fingers trembling as they brushed the screen, trying to touch Lilith¡¯s face. Her hand met only cold glass. She imagined what it would feel like to truly touch her mistress¡¯s face, to trace her soft skin, to¡ Her lips curved into a blissful smile, her head tilting back as she indulged in the fantasy. From the phone came the sound of soft, sweet barking¡ªLilith¡¯s voice, adorably mimicking a puppy. The sound was angelic, the sweetest thing Tia had ever heard. Her eyes lit up as she played the video again. Lilith looked so cute, so irresistible. Tia¡¯s heart raced as a thought took root: having this video was worth anything. --- When Shia returned home, the moon had hidden behind the clouds, leaving only the streetlights to illuminate his path. The villa still had lights on. On the sofa sat a graceful silhouette, elegantly engrossed in a book. Her aura exuded a refined charm, her long legs crossed, framed by the maid outfit she wore. Though designed to tantalize, on her, it looked sweet and demure. The moment Shia entered, the girl on the sofa glanced up, her calm gaze meeting his. ¡°You¡¯re back?¡± Her tone was casual, but Shia couldn¡¯t shake the feeling of being caught sneaking home late. She reminded him of a wife waiting up for her wayward husband¡ªa husband who had just spent the night at a brothel. And yet¡ wasn¡¯t he that husband just now? Shia cleared his throat awkwardly, unsure why he felt so guilty. Chapter 68: The Arrogant Maid Gets Bullied in Front of her Young Lady (1) Chapter 68: The Arrogant Maid Gets Bullied in Front of her Young Lady (1) "You were waiting for me?" He glanced at the clock hanging on the wall. Hmm, seems like he came back a bit late. Making someone wait this long¡ªfriend or not¡ªfelt a bit inconsiderate. Saying this, he turned back, carefully shut the door, and walked toward the sofa. But just as he reached halfway, she snapped her book shut with a sharp "pop," the sound echoing louder than expected. Her expression, however, remained calm and indifferent. "No, I just lost track of time reading," she replied flatly. Like hell, she''d wait for this guy who didn¡¯t come home until the dead of night! The tsundere succubus princess internally huffed, her actions betraying her words. No way she was waiting for him! The moment the words left her lips, she spun on her heels coolly, strutting away with a casual grace that screamed confidence. It was as though she couldn¡¯t be bothered to spare Shia another second of attention. Shia scratched his head, watching her retreating figure. Yep, that¡¯s totally the face of someone pissed off. Well, this just got complicated. --- The next morning, bright and early, Lilith eagerly stationed herself outside the villa''s door. Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions. Her efforts yesterday weren¡¯t going to go to waste, not after all the sweat she poured into things. She had one goal today: to make Shia honor their arrangement. As his fianc¨¦e, it was only right for her to have her own room in his brand-new villa. After all, he¡¯d been freeloading at her place before this. When Shia opened the door and saw Lilith standing there expectantly, he greeted her with a warm and kind smile. "Of course, I didn¡¯t forget about you. Your room has already been prepared," he said sincerely. Hearing this, Lilith''s heart swelled with joy. It was worth it¡ªeverything was worth it! But her excitement turned into bewilderment the moment she saw the "special" room he had prepared for her. Outside the courtyard stood a tiny, standalone wooden house. It was crafted beautifully, with delicate details and even fitted with air conditioning. The only problem? It was ridiculously small. Lilith stared at the doghouse-sized cabin that barely reached her waist and trembled with anger. "You¡¯re making me stay in a doghouse?!" she roared, glaring at Shia in disbelief. "What? What?!" Shia puffed up his chest, acting more indignant than her. "This is the only standalone structure on the entire property! Do you understand its value?" He launched into an impassioned speech. "Because I hold you in such high regard, because you are my one and only, I¡¯ve reserved this exclusive spot for you. If it were anyone else, I wouldn¡¯t even let them touch this place!" "Sure, it might be a little small, but it¡¯s more than enough for just sleeping!" Shia¡¯s earnest tone was so convincing that, for a moment, he almost seemed like a loyal and pure-hearted lover. But no amount of sweet talk could change the fact that this was still a doghouse. Lilith shot him a "you¡¯ve got to be kidding me" look, folding her arms. Her gaze seemed to say, ''Go on. Keep talking. I¡¯m watching how far you¡¯ll spin this nonsense.'' Under her unyielding stare, Shia finally caved. "Fine, fine. If you don¡¯t like it, do you want to share a room with me?" "My bedroom¡¯s pretty big. There¡¯s more than enough space for the two of us." "Besides, we¡¯re engaged, right? It¡¯s totally normal for us to live together." Lilith immediately shook her head in protest. "Shia, you know my family¡¯s traditions. We must remain pure before marriage." Shia sighed in resignation. "But you don¡¯t want the room I gave you either," he muttered. "How about this¡ªwhy don¡¯t we switch rooms? Would that make you happy?" Lilith grabbed Shia¡¯s hands and began shaking them, her eyes sparkling like a pleading kitten. "Please~? Just this once?" she cooed, leaning in closer with a playful pout. Her soft, bouncy breasts brushed against his arm as she clung to him, her voice adopting a sweet, girlish tone that could melt the coldest of hearts. She thought, ''How could he possibly resist me when I¡¯m like this?'' But this time, Lilith¡¯s charm didn¡¯t work. "Nope. Either you stay with me, or you stay here," Shia said firmly. Lilith was stunned. Even after all that, he still refused?! But she had no choice¡ªthere was no way to win against him like this. "Fine. If it¡¯s small, then so be it," she grumbled, her voice muffled and reluctant. As she sulked, Shia decided to twist the knife a little. "You¡¯d rather sleep in there than share a bed with me? And you say you love me?" Lilith rolled her eyes but countered smartly. "Is there anything wrong with a girl wanting to preserve herself before marriage?" This verbal jab struck Shia where it hurt. "Okay, okay," he relented. His tone made it clear he didn¡¯t want to admit defeat, but Lilith''s logic was irrefutable. Pleased with her victory, Lilith tilted her chin up smugly. Hmph, trying to take advantage of her? Not a chance! As a seasoned manipulator of men, she knew maintaining her image of purity was key to keeping Shia wrapped around her finger. The more unattainable she seemed, the more he¡¯d chase her. In the end, Lilith reluctantly accepted the doghouse as her second home. At first glance, it seemed like she had won¡ªafter all, she got Shia to concede during their argument. Chapter 69: The Arrogant Maid Gets Bullied in Front of her Young Lady (2) Chapter 69: The Arrogant Maid Gets Bullied in Front of her Young Lady (2) But the reality? It was a crushing defeat. All that effort, playing nice, and even swallowing her pride¡ªonly to end up in a glorified kennel. Was she a golden retriever now? But Lilith had her reasons. She wasn¡¯t planning to live there anyway. Her primary home was more than enough. The doghouse wasn¡¯t the point. What mattered was having an excuse to come here! Now, whenever she wanted to visit, she could say she was "coming home." This massive villa could hold as many women as Shia could invite, and Lilith intended to stake her claim before anyone else g ot a foothold. She was already picturing parties in the garden¡ªsummer pool bashes, barbecues, you name it. Lilith¡¯s face lit up with a radiant smile as she fantasized about the grand life ahead. But amidst her daydreaming, one crucial detail escaped her notice. Had Shia even agreed to her plans? And if he hadn¡¯t, what price would she need to pay to get his approval? Lilith hadn¡¯t considered any of this. She still thought Shia was the same easygoing nice guy from before, someone she could manipulate at will. Was it really fair for the nice guy to always get bullied? At the same time, on the second floor, by the large floor-to-ceiling window, stood a special guest invited by Shia. She had long, flowing white hair, dressed in a classic maid outfit that hugged her voluptuous figure perfectly. Her legs, encased in silky white stockings, exuded an alluring fullness. Her entire presence was like that of an icy, unreachable goddess.If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it. Tia stood there, arms crossed, silently watching the scene unfold below. In the courtyard, she saw the so-called young lady, Lilith, happily settling into what could only be described as Shia¡¯s ¡°doghouse.¡± A doghouse! And Lilith seemed to love it? Why? Tia couldn¡¯t wrap her mind around it. No matter how much she idolized Lilith, there was no plausible excuse for such behavior. Her logic failed her, and doubts began to creep into her thoughts. The words Shia had whispered to her echoed once more: ¡°What if I brought her down to your level?¡± The soft murmur sounded like the tempting voice of a devil. No! This was the young lady! Such a thing could never happen¡ it was absolutely impossible! Tia¡¯s heart rejected the image with every fiber of her being. Yet, as she watched Lilith¡¯s delight in decorating the doghouse, her faith in the woman she had once idolized began to crumble. Lilith¡¯s once-glorious image dimmed before her eyes. The radiance she admired wasn¡¯t Lilith¡¯s inherent brilliance; it was the glow Tia had projected onto her through her devotion. Now, seeing Lilith so content with something so humiliating caused that image to collapse further. This was the beginning of her fall. Below, Lilith hummed a cheerful tune as she busied herself. Despite the small space, she worked enthusiastically, sprucing up her ¡°little sanctuary.¡± ¡°From now on, this will be called the Home of Happiness!¡± she declared, kneeling on the ground with a satisfied grin. The charming little house symbolized her vision for a beautiful future. Upstairs, there was a dull ¡°thud.¡± White hair spilled over the plush carpet. The icy maid, Tia, found herself pinned to the ground. Her hands braced against the floor to cushion her fall, sending a dull ache through her palms. Tia managed to lift herself slightly, turning her head just enough to glimpse the culprit behind her. A figure loomed over her, an arm slipping around her slender waist. Shia¡¯s head rested lightly on her shoulder, so close that Tia could feel his breath on her skin. The intimate posture mirrored that of a pair of lovers. The scene was picturesque, warm, and serene. To an outsider, it might have seemed like the two were deeply in love, quietly enjoying a moment together. ¡°Look at her. She¡¯s trying so hard,¡± Shia murmured, his gaze fixed on the courtyard where Lilith worked with glee. Tia resisted the discomfort rising in her chest and turned to follow his gaze. Down in the doghouse, Lilith was indeed smiling happily. The two of them silently observed her efforts. On the surface, the atmosphere seemed harmonious. But was it really? Tia¡¯s cold, detached expression betrayed nothing, her icy demeanor intact. Yet inside, the humiliation was unbearable. Through the window, she could see Lilith clearly, but Lilith, engrossed in her decorating, couldn¡¯t see her maid being ¡°bullied¡± by her fianc¨¦ upstairs. Tia bit her lip, suppressing the sound threatening to escape her lips. Lilith, seated on the small bed in her cozy little house, looked toward the villa with a contented smile. Her happiness only deepened Tia¡¯s sense of degradation. She bit down harder on her lip, nearly drawing blood, as if to keep herself silent. Even though she knew Lilith couldn¡¯t see her, the feeling of being humiliated right in front of her was unbearable. Lilith¡¯s gaze eventually returned to the luxurious villa. The massive glass windows reflected the vibrant gardens, the sparkling pool, and the distant mountains and clouds. It was stunning, and she was thoroughly pleased with the view. Meanwhile, on the second floor, the intimate proximity between Shia and Tia was a stark contrast. The maid¡¯s delicate features revealed subtle traces of sorrow. It was humiliating. Truly humiliating. Just moments ago, Lilith¡¯s eyes had briefly glanced upward, and for an instant, their gazes had met. Tia¡¯s body tensed, a cold chill running through her. Her dignity felt completely trampled, her body trembling ever so slightly under the weight of the moment. As her composure threatened to break, Shia¡¯s warm presence pulled back. The distance between them widened, and the fleeting warmth was replaced by a sudden chill. Shia knew the game well. He understood the art of balance¡ªpush too far, and there¡¯d be backlash. This way, he maintained his control. ¡°Don¡¯t you want to know what place you hold in your beloved lady¡¯s heart?¡± Shia¡¯s words were deliberately long and winding, but Tia understood immediately. Her fists clenched and unclenched, betraying her internal turmoil. Chapter 70: The Arrogant Maid Gets Bullied in Front of her Young Lady (3) Chapter 70: The Arrogant Maid Gets Bullied in Front of her Young Lady (3) Shia smirked. ¡°I can help you see the truth.¡± The reflection in the glass faintly showed Tia¡¯s icy yet conflicted expression. She bit her lip, her brow furrowed in hesitation. Deep down, she longed for an answer. ¡°How?¡± she whispered, her voice hoarse, tinged with both doubt and yearning. ¡°You know how I work. I¡¯m all about fairness. If you want something, you¡¯ve got to pay the price.¡± Tia¡¯s lips pressed into a thin line, her teeth sinking deeper. Making a deal with this devil always left her at a disadvantage. But his offer was irresistibly tempting. She wanted to know. Desperately. ¡°Mmh¡¡± Tia let out a faint, ambiguous sound, her breath hitching as her trembling hands moved to the hem of her skirt. Her slender fingers gripped the fabric tightly, the motion hesitant. Slowly, achingly slowly, she began to lift it, revealing the creamy, delicate expanse of her thighs, inch by tantalizing inch, her shame and silent surrender e tched into every quiveri ng movement. --- Later. Tia¡¯s cold, elegant face showed a trace of disdain. Bent at the waist, she tugged at her stockings, now ruined and sticky. She pinched the sullied fabric with two fingers, dropping it into the trash with disgust. They were utterly unwearable now. ¡°That bastard¡ he¡¯s getting worse,¡± she muttered under her breath. Her bare legs, smooth and pale, felt strange without the snug embrace of the stockings. Wiggling her toes, she adjusted to the unfamiliar sensation. Left with no choice, she remained barefoot. ¡°Lady Lilith.¡± Tia¡¯s voice was cold yet submissive. The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement. ¡°Hmm?¡± Lilith barely acknowledged her, engrossed in her crafting. Though she wouldn¡¯t be staying in the doghouse, she still wanted to make it her own. A cute little plaque was a must. Focused on decorating, Lilith failed to notice any changes in her maid¡¯s demeanor. Tia¡¯s gaze drifted to the table. A small wooden sign read ¡°Home of Happiness.¡± Lilith carefully applied glitter to the letters, her face full of concentration. ''She didn¡¯t even glance at me.'' A pang of disappointment tugged at Tia¡¯s heart. She bit her lip, trying once more to gain her lady¡¯s attention. ¡°Lady Lilith, shall I help you?¡± Lilith looked up briefly, a hint of confusion in her expression. ¡°Oh, just go wash my clothes,¡± she said casually, before returning to her task. Tia¡¯s fragile confidence shattered again. ''She didn¡¯t notice at all¡'' ''Lady Lilith, do you even realize that your most loyal maid is being reshaped by someone else?'' Swallowing her pride, Tia turned and obediently gathered Lilith¡¯s laundry. ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am.¡± Unbeknownst to her, a seed of doubt had been planted in her heart. For the first time, she questioned the worth of her devotion. ''So this is how much my loyalty and faith mean to her¡'' Her gaze lingered on Lilith, the woman who seemed so oblivious to her maid¡¯s silent struggles. She genuinely hadn¡¯t noticed a thing. At this moment, she was humming a cheerful tune, sticking pink ribbons onto wooden signs. Tia was merely watching quietly, her inner thoughts betraying her outward composure. The ever-loyal maid found herself grappling with a growing, sinful notion. She moved her smooth, bare legs as she organized the clothes, her every step deliberately brushing past Lilith¡¯s gaze. Not long after, she placed the freshly dried garments back in the wardrobe, continuing her back-and-forth movements. Her flawless white legs swayed as if putting on a show. What seemed like an idyllic morning view was, in reality, already veiled in frost. Meanwhile, Shia was entirely unaware of the dynamic between the two women. For him, the lesson for the snarky maid was temporarily concluded. A seed of discord had been planted, and now it was time to wait for it to ferment. The pressing matter at hand, however, was earning favor from a certain succubus princess. Everything was supposed to follow the plan. According to the game¡¯s route, simply offering her refuge would naturally lead to an increase in affection. Though the people and situations remained unchanged, this was reality! In reality, if you returned home reeking of another girl¡¯s scent, a succubus¡¯s territorial instincts would be provoked. This was a universal issue for all women, after all. At this moment, Rong¡¯s attitude was particularly cold. ¡°Master, here is your water.¡± The flat-chested maid slightly bent forward, her figure utterly devoid of curves. Placing the glass of water from the tray down, she gave a small bow before retreating a few steps and turning to leave. Her manner was strictly professional, distant to the point of alienation. It was obvious she was throwing a silent tantrum. But in truth? Her behavior wasn¡¯t as simple as a petty sulk. The real reason? A socially anxious princess who didn¡¯t know how to express her feelings! Her inner turmoil was intricate and rich, despite her cold fa?ade. As a mere maid taken in by her master, how could she dare to act so arrogantly? Such insolence was unacceptable! What if she got kicked out because of it? She had hoped that bringing Shia a glass of water could ease their relationship and explain that she wasn¡¯t actually angry with him earlier. But when she stood before Shia, she simply couldn¡¯t hold herself back. Her emotions spiraled out of control. The clumsy succubus princess had wanted to clarify that she had just happened to wait for him last night. They were merely friends, after all. She had no right to meddle in his affairs. Chapter 71: Frozen Facades, Gentle Hands: Bridging the Gap Chapter 71: Frozen Facades, Gentle Hands: Bridging the Gap It was simply her succubus instincts kicking in¡ She didn¡¯t mean to act that way. But she couldn¡¯t control her expressions and tone. She wasn¡¯t trying to disrespect her master. Yet as she carried the water inside and faced Shia, Rong¡¯s face instantly froze. The image of an icy queen. Though her mind screamed and spiraled in frustration, reminding herself repeatedly to relax and explain things slowly, she only seemed to make things worse. This wasn¡¯t what she meant to do! She had wanted to explain but was too stiff to utter a single word. Not only did she fail to resolve the misunderstanding, but her demeanor also made her appear even angrier. Hiding in her room, Rong flung herself onto the bed, clawing at her blanket in frustration. Her slender legs, wrapped in silky white stockings, swung back and forth, a pi cture of utter defeat. She knew full well the problem lay with herself: her inability to express emotions, her fear of speaking up, and her crippling nervousness in social interactions. Initially, she had thought using Shia as practice would help her overcome these shortcomings, but it was so difficult. She couldn¡¯t even clear up a simple misunderstanding. She wanted to shed this timid, cowardly persona but couldn¡¯t muster the courage to say a complete sentence despite numerous attempts. Rong sat up on the bed and stood before the mirror, taking a deep breath. This time, she resolved to speak her mind. ¡°Earlier¡ I wasn¡¯t¡ not angry¡¡±The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there. Rong irritably ruffled her hair. Another attempt! ¡°Last night¡ I¡ was waiting¡ but¡¡± She tried countless times, but none of her efforts resulted in a coherent explanation of her feelings. By the end, she was almost ready to give up. If she couldn¡¯t even say it to herself in the mirror, how could she ever face Shia and explain? Her shoulders slumped, her silence thick with frustration. Looking at her own reflection, she appeared so cold it was almost frightening. Inside, she was already screaming in anguish but utterly incapable of vocalizing her thoughts. She was at her wit¡¯s end. Just when the succubus princess was about to despair completely, a knock came at her door. ¡°Rong, are you in there?¡± Through the door, Shia¡¯s muffled voice reached her. Rong looked at her reflection again, her cold expression only deepening her frustration. She didn¡¯t want to see Shia. She couldn¡¯t even control her own facial expressions and had already caused Shia to misunderstand her earlier. If he saw her like this now, he would surely think she was still upset. The door was knocked on again. ¡°Rong, may I come in?¡± Rong rubbed her stiff face. Despite feeling defeated, she went to open the door. With a click, the door swung open. Standing at the door, Rong¡¯s hand gripped the handle, her face cold and expressionless, her gaze seemingly icy and menacing. Shia smiled lightly. ¡°Can we talk?¡± She couldn¡¯t even speak in front of a mirror. How could she possibly have a heart-to-heart with Shia? Rong instinctively shook her head in refusal. But soon, she hesitated. Would Shia think she was still sulking? She wasn¡¯t sulking! She just didn¡¯t know how to start. Afraid of speaking to people, she couldn¡¯t even articulate a simple sentence. How could she ever have a meaningful conversation? If Shia misunderstood her even more and decided to kick her out, what would she do? While Rong¡¯s mind raced, Shia spoke again. ¡°How about this? You don¡¯t need to talk. Just nod or shake your head.¡± Rong froze, looking up into Shia¡¯s eyes. Silence hung between them as time ticked by. Eventually, Shia stepped inside. They sat across from each other, Rong¡¯s icy demeanor contrasting with Shia¡¯s warm, gentlemanly composure. Rong sat rigidly, her back perfectly straight, a soft cushion on her lap. Her hands rested on the cushion, her posture reminiscent of someone preparing for interrogation. It was as if she was about to say, ¡°Confess, and you¡¯ll be treated leniently. Resist, and the punishment will be severe.¡± Meanwhile, Shia resembled a guilty husband being confronted by his angry wife. But as soon as they began talking, the scene shifted dramatically. ¡°Actually, you weren¡¯t angry with me.¡± Shia¡¯s first words made Rong lock eyes with him. Slowly, she nodded. Her heart leaped with joy. Yes, yes! She wasn¡¯t angry! Shia actually understood her. It was so rare and precious! Excitement bubbled up inside her, though her face remained stoic and a little sour. ¡°Last night, you were reading, and you just happened to wait for me to come back?¡± Rong nodded again. She had been trying to find a way forward for her succubus lineage. While she couldn¡¯t visit the library this week, reading on her own seemed like a good idea. ¡°You noticed the scent on me last night, didn¡¯t you?¡± Rong hesitated but eventually nodded. Would Shia think she was bothered by this? ¡°But you weren¡¯t trying to interfere. You just couldn¡¯t help yourself and wanted to retreat to your room so you wouldn¡¯t bother me. You didn¡¯t want me to feel uncomfortable, right?¡± Well, it was close enough. She didn¡¯t think she had the right to meddle. However, her succubus instincts disliked the scent of other women. It felt like her territory was being invaded. That behavior could be seen as disrespectful to Shia. So this interpretation worked, right? Rong nodded again, like a bobblehead doll. ¡°Just now, you brought me water to explain, didn¡¯t you?¡± ¡ It was as if Shia could read her mind, voicing every thought she wanted to express with perfect accuracy. In the end, all misunderstandings were cleared. Rong¡¯s eyes sparkled as she looked at Shia. Her heart overflowed with delight. How could he understand her so well? Affection soared! If affection points visibly floated above her head, hers would be bubbling up nonstop. It was rare to have someone who truly understood her. Chapter 72: The Night Raid of the Succubus Princess – A Socially Awkward Disaster (1) Chapter 72: The Night Raid of the Succubus Princess ¨C A Socially Awkward Disaster (1) It¡¯s rare to have someone who truly understands you! ¡°The rarest treasure in life is having a husband who truly understands you.¡± A sudden voice echoed in Rong¡¯s mind. Startled, she wondered why she was suddenly recalling one of the succubus queen¡¯s signature flirtatious lines. She and Shia were just ordinary friends. At most, he was her employer, and she worked for him¡ªnothing more. Rong shook her head vigorously to dispel the thought. Having a friend was already a blessing in her life. She didn¡¯t have time to pursue romance. Shia¡¯s smile seemed genuine, a reflection of his relief that their misunderstanding had been resolved. His confident demeanor suggested he had everything under control. In truth, he was relieved. At first, he thought the socially anxious princess was angry at him and tried to figure out a solution. But after carefully recalling the game¡¯s portrayal of Rong, he realized he had overthought things. If an ice queen showed such emotions, it might signify real anger. But with the timid and socially awkward succubus princess, the cause was different. Her nervousness and low self-esteem made her unable to control her actions or emotions, leaving her incapable of properly expressing herself. As demonstrated during their previous teamwork, her curt remarks often carried an unintentional air of coldness, even when she meant no harm. In such cases, clearing up the misunderstanding was the key to resolving the issue. Shia¡¯s heartfelt smile showed his satisfaction as everything seemed to be back on track. But life is full of unexpected twists, and they often come when you least expect them. You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author. That night, under a moonless sky. The quiet room gradually filled with a faint pink mist. The mist emanated from the petite figure lying on the bed. The delicate haze swirled, spreading through the room. The sleeping girl scratched her neck, her brows furrowing slightly. She turned over, but still couldn¡¯t find comfort, tossing and turning restlessly. Rong bit her lip, feeling a strange heat in the air. She let out a muffled moan, her body curling as she hugged her pillow tightly, rubbing against it unconsciously. Hot. It was unbearably hot. It felt as if the air conditioning had failed, and she had been thrown into the peak of summer¡¯s fiery embrace. Her eyes fluttered open, her gaze clouded with heat. Even her breaths felt scorching. Her mind was ablaze, her body weak yet brimming with an inexplicable energy, yearning for release. Sleep was impossible. Staring at the ceiling, Rong was both confused and distressed. Why was this happening early? It was a full week ahead of her usual cycle! Looking at the increasingly dense pink mist filling her room, Rong felt a mix of frustration and discomfort. The succubus¡¯s unique physiology stemmed from an innate craving for life energy. This was an undeniable part of their nature. Every so often, this craving would surface. Commonly referred to as their heat cycle. Each time a succubus experienced it, their allure grew stronger, a vital step in their development. For a mature succubus, this was hardly an issue; in fact, it could even be seen as a delightful bonus. But for someone as abstinent as Rong, it was nothing short of torment. Especially since it happened several times a month¡ªmore frequent than any period ever dared to be! And now, it was early. Rong couldn¡¯t understand why. In truth, the heat cycle was a natural self-completion mechanism unique to succubi. Following their instincts would allow them to pass through it smoothly. But Rong sought a different path. She refused to live by her body¡¯s desires alone. Previously, her socially anxious nature helped her maintain stability. Avoiding contact with others, especially men, kept her instincts in check. But in recent days, she had spent too much time around Shia. Her long-suppressed nature was inevitably awakened. The urge to claim him, to mark him with her scent, surged within her. Shia¡¯s image filled her mind, his scent lingering in her thoughts. Rong¡¯s once-clear eyes now glimmered with a hazy pink hue, her thoughts clouded by instinct. No! She couldn¡¯t let this continue! Clinging to her last shred of rationality, she tried to suppress her nature. But the growing heat within her made control increasingly difficult. She had to escape! Only by leaving, by distancing herself from Shia, could she avoid making a grave mistake. Otherwise, under the compulsion of her instincts, who knew what she might do? She climbed out of bed, her limbs weak and trembling, each step a monumental effort. Leaning against the wall, her mind a chaotic blur, she moved towards the door, guided only by fading memories. The sides of her forehead throbbed as if something was about to emerge. Her unsteady steps finally brought her to the door. Reaching out to open it, she realized something felt off. Shaking her head, Rong focused on her surroundings. This wasn¡¯t the living room. It was the second-floor hallway. And the door before her¡ seemed eerily familiar. A familiar, enticing scent filled the air, drawing her closer. Her wide eyes filled with panic. Hadn¡¯t she already left? Why was she standing outside Shia¡¯s room? No! She had to leave immediately! But by now, her body no longer obeyed her will. Driven by instinct, her hand knocked on the door. Knock, knock. No! Run! Rong screamed internally, but her body remained rooted. Helplessly, she watched as the door opened. Shia appeared in the doorway, his brows furrowing slightly. The girl before him wore a pink nightgown, her slender legs bare, her delicate feet resting on the cold floor, seemingly unaffected by the chill. A faint, sweet fragrance lingered in the air. ¡°Rong, what¡¯s wrong?¡± Hearing Shia¡¯s concern, Rong wanted to say she was fine and walk away. But her soul seemed trapped, watching helplessly as her body acted on its own. Before she could react, she had thrown herself into Shia¡¯s arms.
A Special Thank You!: I want to extend my deepest gratitude to [Edward Zidd], for supporting me on Patreon!Chapter 73: The Night Raid of the Succubus Princess – A Socially Awkward Disaster (2) Chapter 73: The Night Raid of the Succubus Princess ¨C A Socially Awkward Disaster (2) Caught off guard, Shia was pushed to the ground. The girl lay sprawled atop him, her dark hair cascading around them. What are you doing!? Rong¡¯s mind was in turmoil, on the brink of collapse. She had meant to escape, to find a place to endure her heat cycle in solitude, not to seek Shia¡¯s help in resolving it! But now, she could only watch as her body betrayed her, unable to intervene. Even the sensation of their contact was beyond her grasp. As time passed, her rationality eroded further. The world before her eyes blurred into obscurity. She caught the faint scent of Shia¡¯s body and could almost hear his voice. As her rationality waned, her memories grew increasingly blurry. Rong lost all sense of what was happening. Shia, sound asleep, was suddenly awoken by a knocking sound. Opening his eyes to confirm he hadn¡¯t imagined it, he noticed the room was still dark. He got up and opened the door to find Rong standing there. She was clad in a pink nightgown, her slender, pale legs exposed, and her bare feet pressed against the floorboards. Her expression was blank, but her captivating eyes glowed with an enchanting purple hue. Shia frowned. Something was clearly off about the socially anxious princess tonight. ¡°Rong, are you okay?¡± he asked with genuine concern. Could she be sick? But before he could get an answer, he was abruptly pushed backward. As he fell, he caught a glimpse of two small horns sprouting from Rong¡¯s head. Her eyes fully transformed into a glowing purple, while a slender tail swayed behind her. Her hips moved gracefully as she leaned in, her cheek brushing against his neck. In that moment, the usually abstinent succubus princess revealed her true form, exuding a stunning allure.Stolen story; please report. Her flawless face was both seductive and innocent, a contradiction that blended seamlessly and left one¡¯s heart racing. But¡ Shia¡¯s gaze traveled downward. Flat. Completely flat. She was a total plane, utterly incapable of inspiring any improper thoughts! Unmoved, Shia sighed internally. As I thought, I still prefer them bigger. After this fleeting thought, he felt a twinge of guilt for disrespecting the succubus race¡¯s physiology. Though pinned beneath her, taking advantage of someone in such a state wasn¡¯t his style. Shia reached out and grabbed the succubus¡¯s weak spot¡ªher thin, black tail. The mischievous kitten instantly calmed down, her wild energy sealed away. Now docile, she curled up into a ball, her large purple eyes looking pitifully at Shia¡ªa mix of reliance, fear, and a hint of playfulness. Shia, however, removed the charm ring from his finger, intending to place it on her tail while she was subdued. This was, after all, his ultimate goal at the moment. He couldn¡¯t waste the opportunity now that the socially awkward princess had revealed her true form! But it was futile. The ring simply wouldn¡¯t stay on. After picking it up for the third time, Shia let out a resigned sigh. As expected, it required her to be fully conscious and willing. Damn those game developers and their airtight logic¡ªleaving no loopholes to exploit! This ridiculous setup¡ Lying on the floor like this wasn¡¯t sustainable. While the weather was still warm, the villa¡¯s air conditioning made the floor uncomfortably cold despite the carpet. Shia got up, intending to return to bed. And Rong? The moment he stood, his legs were restrained. The freed succubus princess clung to his leg, her purple eyes brimming with charm as her lithe waist twisted seductively. Shia: ¡ So, he couldn¡¯t just ignore her after all. Succubi in heat were truly formidable. With no other choice, Shia bent down and scooped Rong into his arms, keeping a firm grip on her tail for good measure. Once more subdued, the mischief-maker curled obediently in his embrace, her watery eyes gazing up at him with a silly grin¡ªlike a naive girl happy to be sold off, counting her own change. What else could Shia do? He decided to share the bed. Seeing as she didn¡¯t seem fully conscious, suppressing her impulses was the only option until she regained clarity. Half an hour later. Rong¡¯s long hair draped over her petite figure, cocooning her as she curled up beside Shia like a soft, lazy kitten. Her body, weak and pliant, had no strength left. Her small face, warmed by proximity, was flushed with a rosy hue, exuding a captivating charm as she nuzzled against her companion. Her languid, endearing demeanor made her look utterly lovable as she nestled in Shia¡¯s embrace. Ever since she claimed his arms as her territory, she had found a comfortable position and fallen asleep. Of course, only after Shia had firmly grasped her weak spot could she be so docile. Otherwise, who knew how much chaos she would have caused? Inside the succubus princess¡¯s body, Rong¡¯s consciousness was gradually returning. Amid the haze, she felt an odd warmth and comfort. Who am I? What am I doing? Though not fully awake, her subconscious sensed something was amiss. But the scent around her was intoxicatingly pleasant, making her feel at ease. She instinctively snuggled closer, her kitten-like nose twitching as she took in the scent. Her head leaned in, rubbing gently against the source of her comfort. Stretching lazily, she felt utterly relaxed and content. ¡°Are you awake?¡± A unfamiliar voice came from above, startlingly close. Still groggy, Rong¡¯s sluggish mind struggled to process the words. Opening her eyes, her blurry vision slowly cleared, revealing Shia¡¯s smiling face. Rong froze completely. This this this¡ Shia¡ I¡ If her thoughts could be visualized, her mind would be filled with static. Why am I here? Why is Shia here? What happened between us? In a flash, the events from earlier played back in her mind. The drifting pink mist, her disoriented wandering, and her bold actions of pushing Shia down. Boom! The haunting memories struck her like lightning. Rong was utterly stunned. Why was she remembering this now? Why did she have to wake up at this moment!? Wouldn¡¯t it have been better to sleep through till morning? Shia, why didn¡¯t you just toss me out!? Why did it come to this! Ahhh¡ In her mind, a tiny version of herself was already screaming and spinning in circles. The shame was unbearable! She wanted to crash into a wall. Why did she have to face such an awkward situation? Death would be a relief compared to this. She genuinely considered knocking herself out on the nightstand. But nestled in Shia¡¯s arms, surrounded by the soft bed and blankets, even ¡°suicidal¡± escape seemed impossible. What a disastrous, socially awkward scene. She could never show her face again! Shia watched as Rong¡¯s body stiffened. She froze entirely, her eyes wide and unblinking. It was as if she had turned to stone, an expression of deathly rigidity etched on her face. In Rong¡¯s mind, the words ¡°It¡¯s over¡± flashed repeatedly. What now? Shia would definitely laugh at her, wouldn¡¯t he? If she had known it would end like this, she would have locked herself in her room, gone nowhere, maybe taken a cold shower to cool down, or even tied herself up to endure it alone. But now, it was too late. The embarrassing events had unfolded; her secret was exposed; and worst of all, it had all happened in front of her employer. She felt like she was kneeling in surrender, mentally shouting, ¡°Please, mock me as you wish!¡± Chapter 74: The Succubus Princess’s Crushing Defeat – Don’t I Deserve Some Dignity? (1) Chapter 74: The Succubus Princess¡¯s Crushing Defeat ¨C Don¡¯t I Deserve Some Dignity? (1) For Rong, there was both good news and bad news. The good news: nothing happened. As she suspected, her chosen friend was a true gentleman. Even when faced with her heat cycle, he didn¡¯t take advantage of her. The bad news: despite her full succubus allure being activated, she still couldn¡¯t win over a man. Instead, she¡¯d been tamed like a kitten for half an hour! As her rationality returned, she began to recall her actions even during her unconscious state. While the specifics were hazy, she clearly remembered that Shia didn¡¯t touch her inappropriately and even placed her on the bed. Like a pet cat. But she was a succubus! A fully-fledged, irresistibly enchanting succubus¡ªnot some domesticated house pet! If word of this got out, wouldn¡¯t the fairies of Dreamland mock her for an entire month? The embarrassment was overwhelming. Her brain was on the verge of shutting down. What now? How could she face such an awkward situation? If only she could faint and escape! Having no idea how to confront Shia, she decided to continue feigning cluelessness. Rong¡¯s body stiffened slightly but still nuzzled into Shia¡¯s chest. The pleasant scent drew her closer. ¡°Meow~¡± Her soft, trembling voice carried a touch of nervousness. Was this how kittens acted cute? Anxious, Rong continued to rub against him. ¡°Meow~¡± The purring sound she made was reminiscent of a cat¡¯s contented hum. If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. Shia reached out and patted her head, his hand gradually moving down to stroke her back. To be honest, Rong felt resistant inside. She wasn¡¯t truly out of her senses¡ªjust terrified of dying from embarrassment, so she played along. As a succubus princess determined to rely on herself and not feed on others¡¯ essence, physical contact with the opposite sex was a violation of her principles! She was a dignified succubus princess. How could she allow someone to pet her like a cat? Succubus princesses had their pride! ¡°Mmhmm~¡± Yet she involuntarily squinted her eyes in pleasure, her upper body collapsing onto Shia. It wasn¡¯t her lack of resolve; it was his expert petting skills that rendered her defenses useless. She tilted her chin up, his fingers scratching gently under it, sending a wave of tingling comfort through her. It felt amazing. So relaxing that she completely let her guard down, fully enjoying the moment like an actual kitten. ¡°How long do you plan to keep this act up?¡± From above came Shia¡¯s calm voice, gentle and soothing. But his words mercilessly shattered her pretense, tearing away her last shred of dignity. Rong¡¯s body froze. Instantly, she felt guilty. He¡ found out? That couldn¡¯t be! Hadn¡¯t her disguise been flawless? When did he figure it out? It was as though Shia could read her mind. ¡°I knew from the moment we locked eyes,¡± he said, his voice light with a teasing smile. Rong¡¯s eyes widened in shock as she looked up at him. Did that mean¡ he caught on right from the beginning? So, Shia had been watching her play the role of a kitten the entire time? She wanted to dig a hole and bury herself. But the worst was yet to come. She looked at her current state¡ªa true succubus in every way. Her true form was exposed. And Shia had seen everything. She wasn¡¯t human. She was a succubus! How could she possibly face her master now? Although she felt humiliated and ashamed, Rong was naturally straightforward. Since her secret was out, she decided to come clean. ¡°That¡¯s right. As you can see, I¡¯m a succubus.¡± Her voice carried a hint of sorrow. ¡°Shia, don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll leave quietly¡ soon.¡± The words were hard to say, but she forced them out despite the turmoil in her heart. She didn¡¯t dare meet Shia¡¯s eyes. This was the first time she¡¯d met someone who treated her so kindly and understood her so well¡ a true friend. She was afraid. Afraid of seeing disdain or rejection in his gaze¡ªthe same looks she had grown used to from others. Who would want to be friends with a succubus? She should have been used to it. But her recent interactions with Shia had been so warm and comforting. The thought of losing that connection filled her with panic. Yet Shia didn¡¯t let go. He continued stroking her head, as though he hadn¡¯t heard her words. This made Rong snap. She grabbed his hands, glaring at him fiercely. ¡°Didn¡¯t you hear me? I¡¯m not human! I¡¯m not a cat! I¡¯m a succubus!¡± She had already prepared herself emotionally for rejection, but why wasn¡¯t he playing along? Shia glanced at his restrained hands, then at the angry succubus princess glaring at him with a mix of frustration and embarrassment. She looked like a puffed-up kitten pretending to be fierce. ¡°Why do you want to leave?¡± His tone was so genuinely curious that Rong was momentarily stunned. Why did she want to leave? Wasn¡¯t that the natural thing to do? He knew she was a succubus, so why didn¡¯t Shia plan to kick her out? In Rong¡¯s mind, although this outcome saddened her, it was completely normal. She had even braced herself to face Shia¡¯s ridicule. But¡ ¡°I¡¯m a succubus. Aren¡¯t you going to laugh at me?¡± After all, any friends she¡¯d had in the past who discovered she was a succubus would always look at her with disdain and then never speak to her again. To Rong, being a succubus seemed inherently contemptible. So, wasn¡¯t it natural for him to want her gone? Why did she even ask such a question? ¡°A succubus is just another race. Why would I laugh at you?¡± Shia replied casually, his tone indifferent. The prejudices of the world had always been something Shia disdained. He firmly believed in the equality of all beings. To him, a person¡ªor a succubus¡ªwas judged by their actions, not their origins. Rong¡¯s grip on Shia¡¯s hand loosened slightly. Wasn¡¯t this common sense? Through his words and actions, Shia showed her that it wasn¡¯t common sense at all. A person¡¯s origin was merely their starting point in this world. And the starting point mattered the least. The journey could be glorious or mundane; the ending could be admirable. Everyone lived under the same sky, simply as different beings. Rong stared blankly at Shia, her red lips slightly parted. ¡°But¡¡± But her life experiences told her that succubi were always seen as inferior. No one would want to be friends with a succubus. How could someone not care? ¡°Your origin doesn¡¯t define you. Everyone has thoughts and the freedom to choose their path in life.¡± ¡°So, as long as you live earnestly in the present, you¡¯re worthy of respect.¡± Shia¡¯s calm voice resonated deeply within Rong, shaking her worldview. Rong was left speechless, unable to form a response. Her heart trembled uncontrollably. The affection she felt for Shia surged, her gratitude overwhelming. No one had ever said such words to her before. Shia was the first person who didn¡¯t look down on her for being a succubus. Rong couldn¡¯t help but bury her face in Shia¡¯s chest. Her eyelashes fluttered, her eyes slightly red, her voice trembling. ¡°Such despicable words!¡± Shia was stunned. How were they despicable? Chapter 75: The Succubus Princess’s Crushing Defeat – Don’t I Deserve Some Dignity? (2) Chapter 75: The Succubus Princess¡¯s Crushing Defeat ¨C Don¡¯t I Deserve Some Dignity? (2) He¡¯s too good at this, isn¡¯t he? How could he be despicable? Shia: I¡¯m so innocent. Having grown up in Dreamland, Rong was used to hearing scorn and derision. Dreamland was bustling and vibrant, a place of indulgence and revelry. But beneath its lively surface lay unabashed malice. Those piercing gazes, hurtful words, and unrestrained ridicule¡ Rong eventually realized that she was different from others. Or rather, succubi as a race were inherently despised. It was their original sin. So, she began to disguise herself to make friends. For the first time, she experienced equality. She forgot the inferiority of being a succubus; no one looked at her differently. But as soon as her true nature emerged, all she faced was disdain and alienation. Even more so for having pretended to be someone else. From that moment, she understood that succubi weren¡¯t meant to have normal friendships. Born lowly, they were the lowest beings in the world. Over time, her social anxiety took root. Unnatural interactions and an oppressive environment filled her with aversion and fear toward others. To avoid pain and humiliation, she shut herself off in her own world. But with Shia, she had finally felt equality and respect. He reached out to her as a friend, gave her shelter, and offered her work. Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website. Now that he knew she was a succubus, he still showed no signs of disgust. For Rong, this was unprecedented. No one had ever been so kind to her. She felt overjoyed and deeply moved. In her heart, she silently resolved that Shia was not just her friend but her closest companion! And for such a close companion, she knew she had to show her sincerity. ¡°Shia, is there anything I can do for you?¡± She looked up, her eyes slightly red, her gaze shimmering with pure sincerity and pleading. Shia had been so good to her. As compensation for deceiving him, she felt she had to repay him. With close companions, there should be no secrets or lies. Especially after what she had done to him earlier. ¡°As long as it¡¯s within my power, I¡¯ll do it!¡± The seductive succubus made this promise with a pure and innocent expression. The combination of her charm and innocence created a dazzling effect, blending into a complete and captivating image of Rong. As soon as the word s left her lips, Rong regretted them. Wasn¡¯t this too enthusiastic? It even felt a bit like a confession. She only saw Shia as a very, very good friend. Would he misunderstand? She didn¡¯t want to date, nor did she have time for romance. If he thought she was confessing and accepted, what would she do? Would she have to confess and then reject him? That seemed bad. Would she have to agree? But she had never even considered romance before. If Shia agreed, what then? She didn¡¯t dislike him; in fact, she had a bit of affection for him. But that was just friendship, wasn¡¯t it? The succubus queen¡¯s words once again echoed in her mind. Lost in a whirlwind of thoughts, the confused succubus girl was clearly still affected by the aftereffects of her heat cycle. Shia seemed pleased. ¡°Really?¡± Rong hesitated, unsure if she could retract her words now. ¡°I¡¯d like to put a ring on your tail, just for a moment.¡± Shia¡¯s smile was bright. Rong was dumbfounded. ¡°Huh?¡± He spoke with heartfelt sincerity. ¡°I really need this. Just for a second.¡± Shia tried to appear as earnest as possible. Rong was stunned. She stared blankly at Shia, doubting her ears. How could someone have such a bizarre request? She had offered to do anything for him, granting him such broad permission, and this was what he chose? She was a succubus! Though often looked down upon, she was a being of unparalleled charm and allure. And this was what he asked for? ¡°No way!¡± Rong refused instantly, her tone firm and resolute. Her long tail swayed before hiding behind her, as if wary of a sneak attack. A succubus¡¯s tail was untouchable! The previously soft and clingy kitten suddenly turned into a bristling little beast, fiercely protective. ¡°Hmph!¡± Rong made a face, baring her teeth to show her determination. Then, she leapt off Shia¡¯s bed and stormed out. Completely forgetting that she had just been holding Shia¡¯s hands moments ago, tearfully pledging to do anything for him. ¡°Hey, are you going back on your word?¡± Shia¡¯s voice called out from behind her. Rong turned around, her tone sharp and defiant. ¡°I said no, and I mean it!¡± Her words were abruptly cut off by the slamming of the door. A succubus¡¯s tail was their most sensitive part, their ultimate weak spot. It was absolutely off-limits! Didn¡¯t Shia notice earlier? Even when she lost consciousness, being grabbed by the tail instantly made her obedient. The tail, her Achilles¡¯ heel, lived up to its name. Though she couldn¡¯t fathom why Shia would make such an odd request, t ouching her tail was out of the question. There was no room for negotiation. At least not now. Or ever, really! Rong¡¯s mind raced with chaotic thoughts, like a bullet screen of denial and resolve. Shia stared at the door, a hint of melancholy in his expression as he let out a deep sigh. ¡°Sigh¡¡± She had said she¡¯d do anything within her power. Was putting on a ring really such a big deal? But now she¡¯d gone back on her word. Clearly, achieving his goal was going to take more effort. It wasn¡¯t going to be that easy. At this moment, Rong was like an untamed housecat. While she might seem docile, allowing herself to be petted and held, any attempt to touch her sensitive spots would lead to her baring her claws in defiance. Ultimately, she was still not fully tamed. But who could resist the charm of raising a cat? Shia thought back to the earlier scene of Rong¡¯s act. From her initial stiffness to the eventual contented purring, it was genuinely amusing. And once fully tamed¡ He chuckled at the thought.
A Special Thank You!: I want to extend my deepest gratitude to [Zigei], for supporting me on Patreon!Chapter 76: Ethereal Beauty Chapter 76: Ethereal Beauty Late at night. The Marquis Arnold''s¡¯ castle. ¡°Snap!¡± The faint sound of a switch being flicked lit up the dark room. Thick velvet curtains blocked out all traces of light from outside. Inside a cage, a silver-haired girl shielded her eyes, unaccustomed to the sudden brightness. The Marquis Arnold, dressed in an opulent suit, circled the cage, scrutinizing his latest acquisition¡ªa rare, high-grade elven slave. Though contraband, the more forbidden it was, the more precious and desirable it became. The steward standing nearby bowed slightly, a subtle smile on his face. The Marquis¡¯ favorite pastime was playing with a variety of slaves, especially those who were young and tender. In this day and age, money could buy almost anything. ¡°Not bad, not bad!¡± The Marquis¡¯ voice was tinged with excitement. Inside the cage, the beautiful girl raised her head, her exquisite face filled with fear and vulnerability. Her long silver hair obscured most of her bare body, leaving only her slender legs and delicate shoulders exposed. Her small, upturned face was porcelain-white, her features youthful and innocent, with a hint of baby fat. Her light green eyes shone with purity. Her elven ears, peeking through her hair, added an ethereal grace to her appearance. They were the hallmark of her race and a bridge to the natural world. Though her hair concealed much, the generous size of her chest was impossible to hide. A youthful face paired with a voluptuous figure¡ªit was enough to make any depraved man salivate. She was a perfect specimen, the kind the Marquis relished.Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on. A perverse smile spread across his face as he reached out to touch her. Her tender skin¡ªhow exquisite would it feel? Just as he was about to savor his new slave, chaos erupted. ¡°Bang!¡± A muffled sound, followed by a burst of blood and a scream, as the Marquis¡¯ arm suddenly exploded. His eyes widened in disbelief. Writhing in pain, he collapsed to the ground, his arm reduced to a bloody mess. The terrified expression on the girl¡¯s face vanished, replaced by an eerie smile. ¡°Uncle¡¡± Her ethereal voice, as soothing as the finest melody of nature, belied the chilling words she spoke. ¡°Were you that eager¡ to go to hell?¡± Her tone was light and cheerful, as if discussing something delightful. Suddenly, the cage warped. The iron bars, thick as an arm and inscribed with anti-magic seals, twisted as if they were made of clay. The elven girl stood up, her long silver hair cascading down to her ankles. Her petite frame carried curves that defied her youthful appearance. Under different circumstances, the Marquis would have been ecstatic. But now, he was consumed by terror. ¡°H-how is this possible?!¡± Wasn¡¯t there an anti-magic array? She shouldn¡¯t have been able to use magic! ¡°Oh, the anti-magic?¡± The girl¡¯s face showed a hint of confusion. She raised a delicate hand, her slender fingers curling slightly. In her palm, a gray-white totem shimmered and rotated. She studied it intently, ignoring the panicked noble before her. The so-called anti-magic was just a manipulation of rules. This array suppressed magical energy. With a clenched fist, the totem in her hand dissipated, not destroyed but reabsorbed into the surrounding space. She wasn¡¯t afraid of anti-magic because her power didn¡¯t come from traditional magic. Her abilities were the manifestation of rules themselves, her authority named¡ªBlasphemy! This allowed her to manipulate rules and render anti-magic ineffective. The moment her fist tightened, every hair on the Marquis¡¯ body stood on end. His face twisted in fear as he dragged his injured body backward, desperate to escape. The elven girl¡¯s innocent smile didn¡¯t waver as she took slow, deliberate steps toward him. The Marquis was on the verge of breaking down. ¡°S-stay away!¡± The steward, frozen in shock, finally grasped the situation and let out a piercing scream. ¡°Ahhh!¡± The commotion alerted the guards, and the sound of hurried footsteps echoed in the hall. The guards arrived to find the disheveled noble and the seemingly harmless, naked elf. Their confusion and terror mirrored their master¡¯s. ¡°Kill her! Kill her now!¡± The Marquis¡¯ face contorted with fear as he cowered behind his guards, clinging to a sliver of security. The elven girl surveyed the encircling guards, her expression turning sickeningly sweet. Had they ever encountered a deranged elf? The massacre began. ¡°Bang, bang, bang!¡± Dull thuds accompanied the blossoming of blood sprays, painting a macabre scene. The red mist settled on the pristine elf, adding a touch of color to her pale complexion. Standing amidst the carnage, she resembled a crimson lily blooming on the banks of the underworld, grotesque yet mesmerizing. The sound of bodies hitting the ground echoed repeatedly. The Marquis¡¯ mouth hung open, a droplet of blood landing on his tongue, its metallic tang invading his senses. But his revulsion was drowned out by sheer horror. In the blink of an eye, his guards lay lifeless, their fates sealed. The depraved noble who had tormented countless slaves now faced karmic retribution. The steward, who had facilitated many illicit purchases for his master¡¯s sadistic pleasures, collapsed in a heap, too terrified to utter a word. Only the sound of his labored breathing remained. The elf sat at an undisturbed desk, her once-helpless demeanor replaced by a casual boredom. Her green-patterned stockings-clad feet swung idly as if the carnage had left her unimpressed. Hearing the panicked breaths, she turned her gaze to the doorway, where the steward trembled in fear. Her sweet smile returned. ¡°Oh, I almost forgot about you.¡± Her cheerful voice carried an unsettling undertone, as if she had remembered something delightful. This steward had procured numerous forbidden items for his master¡¯s depravity. In the next moment, the doorway was painted with a mix of blood and flesh. The elf looked down at the barely human noble, letting out a soft sigh. ¡°Sigh¡ Lately, the toys break far too easily.¡± Her dissatisfaction was palpable. The Marquis, witnessing her carnage, teetered on the edge of madness. Either the world had gone insane, or he had. No, it was this seemingly harmless elven girl before him who was insane! But her frustration was fleeting. Soon, her cheerful demeanor returned. ¡°It¡¯s fine if this toy isn¡¯t satisfying. I hear the largest underground auction is happening soon, isn¡¯t it, uncle?¡± Her radiant smile widened as she addressed the Marquis. Her expression grew increasingly unhinged. ¡°When the time comes, I¡¯ll have plenty more fun. Don¡¯t you think so?¡± Chapter 77: The Tribulations of the Silver Moon Princess, Senpai is Right Outside, Please Stop! (1) Chapter 77: The Tribulations of the Silver Moon Princess, Senpai is Right Outside, Please Stop! (1) The next morning. Rong watched Shia enjoying her breakfast with such elegance and grace. She bit her lip and clutched her skirt tightly. After much internal struggle, she mustered the courage to speak up. ¡°Master, I sincerely request your help with something.¡± Shia, slightly surprised, looked at Rong, who had bowed at a ninety-degree angle. ¡°I¡ I want to overcome¡¡± Though she stammered, Rong managed to voice her thoughts more coherently than before. She had finally begun to move beyond her habit of freezing up entirely. Rong felt frustrated with herself for being so socially anxious and wanted to change. Considering Shia as her closest friend, she knew he was the only one she could turn to for help. ¡°Sure.¡± Shia took another spoonful of salad, agreeing without hesitation. His easygoing response caught Rong off guard. She had assumed that asking Shia for help would come with some kind of cost. Yet, before she even had the chance to present any terms or promises, Shia agreed¡ªjust like that? No strings attached? Are humans really this¡ straightforward? Her expression grew blank with disbelief. ¡°Actually, I do have one small request,¡± Shia added, sincerity evident in his tone as he observed Rong¡¯s visible confusion. ¡°This ring¡¡± ¡°No way!¡± Rong rejected him outright, her response quick and decisive. Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings. If it were any other condition, no matter how challenging, she¡¯d have done her best to fulfill it. But anything involving her tail was an absolute no-go. The succubus¡¯s tail was sacred, meant only for the touch of her chosen man. Let alone placing a ring on it¡ªeven thinking about such an act carried immense, holy significance that a human like Shia could never comprehend. How could she agree to something so utterly shameless? Even among succubi, this kind of behavior was considered beyond indecent. But her social anxiety had been building for years, leaving her tongue-tied and unable to explain. Her frustration only grew as her attempts to articulate herself ended in incoherent stammers. Resigned, she chose to stay silent. ¡°Alright, alright, let¡¯s not talk about it anymore,¡± Shia quickly reassured her, sensing her growing embarrassment. Otherwise, he was sure this socially anxious princess might genuinely combust from mortification. While she didn¡¯t quite ¡°burn up,¡± she did let out a small sigh of relief. Her inner turmoil, however, only deepened. She realized that things couldn¡¯t go on like this. She had to work hard and train herself out of this state! ''Lesson One of Overcoming Social Anxiety: Leaving the House'' Staying cooped up indoors every day was no way to conquer her fears. The first step to breaking free from her current state was interacting with people. The more exposure she had, the more accustomed she¡¯d become, eventually shedding her fear altogether. ¡°You can¡¯t keep hiding at home like this every day. You should start attending classes,¡± Shia remarked bluntly. C-Classes? Rong¡¯s eyes widened slightly. Just imagining being crammed into a small space with so many people sent waves of panic coursing through her. The thought alone made her want to retreat. ¡°B-But classes¡ they¡¯re useless for me,¡± she argued weakly. After all, she couldn¡¯t cultivate magic or skills, rendering the coursework meaningless. That was why she avoided classes altogether. Shia crossed his arms and stared her down as she struggled to come up with excuses to skip. Under his unwavering gaze, Rong shrank further into herself, wishing she could disappear entirely. ¡°They really¡ don¡¯t help me¡¡± Her voice was soft, tinged with a hint of grievance. Without another word, Shia grabbed her by the arm and dragged her out the door. Rong resisted with all her might, but it was no use. Shia¡¯s strength easily overpowered her, and she soon found herself forcibly escorted to the classroom. The school bell hadn¡¯t rung yet, but the classroom was already lively. Some students were playfully teasing each other, while others were engrossed in their phones, watching videos, listening to music, or playing games. The noise level wasn¡¯t particularly high, but to a socially anxious girl like Rong, it felt like torture. The buzz of human voices overwhelmed her. Overcome by fear, she even began to feel physically unwell. Rong covered her mouth with her hand, her face turning pale. She felt like throwing up¡ Seeing her pitiful state, Shia couldn¡¯t help but shake his head discreetly. Still, he moved closer to her side, shielding her from most of the prying eyes and noise. ¡°Hang in there. You¡¯ll get used to this eventually. Most people aren¡¯t paying attention to you; they¡¯re busy with their own lives. Just focus on being yourself.¡± Rong forced a weak smile, her face still pale and her expression nervous, like a frightened bunny. Thanks to Shia¡¯s presence, she managed to maintain some semblance of composure. But not everyone in the room ignored them. After all, that was Shia¡ªthe mysterious and powerful Shia¡ªactually attending class! And who was that girl next to him? While most students cast curious glances their way, one individual¡¯s interest was far more serious. The silver-haired princess, Violet, was observing the two closely. She scrutinized the petite, flat-chested girl who seemed utterly unremarkable. Yet Shia appeared to be paying her special attention? The way they leaned in to speak quietly to each other didn¡¯t escape Violet¡¯s notice. The girl¡¯s discomfort was evident, and Shia¡¯s soft-spoken reassurances seemed oddly tender. When the plain girl gave a faint, weak smile, it was like a trembling flower braving a storm. A flash of realization struck Violet. She had figured it out! Her imagination ran wild, conjuring up scenes straight out of the romance stories she¡¯d read. The villain always had an inexplicable fixation on the most ordinary of girls. So this girl had caught Shia¡¯s eye? Violet¡¯s uniquely creative mind began scripting a drama that spanned 180 episodes in her head, with Shia and Rong at the center. The more she thought about it, the more excited she became, her eyes practically sparkling. Though she couldn¡¯t understand why villains favored such plain girls, Violet saw this as an opportunity. If she couldn¡¯t control Shia directly, she could exploit this ordinary girl as his weakness. Chapter 78: The Tribulations of the Silver Moon Princess, Senpai is Right Outside, Please Stop! (2) Chapter 78: The Tribulations of the Silver Moon Princess, Senpai is Right Outside, Please Stop! (2) Her confidence soared as she imagined using the girl to threaten Shia, forcing him to submit to her whims and bow to her will¡ªkneeling at her feet in her pristine, white stockings. With her plan firmly in mind, Violet turned back to her desk, ready to attend class with renewed purpose. She was convinced she had discovered the key to controlling Shia and was determined to see her vision through. Once class ended and the students dispersed, Rong, having been on edge the entire time, quickly rushed out for a bathroom break. Meanwhile, Violet approached Shia, slipping into the seat beside him and trapping him in place with a sly grin. Considering Rong''s social anxiety, Shia had chosen a more secluded seat, far from both the front and back doors. At that moment, Violet elegantly sat down in that very spot, effectively blocking Shia''s path. ¡°Shia, let¡¯s negotiate properly, shall we?¡± Shia had no interest. Without hesitation, he grabbed Violet by the arm, lifted her out of the way, and continued walking. Violet, clearly annoyed, quickly caught up and finally managed to corner Shia by the doorway. She shut the door, leaning against it, her sharp gaze fixed on Shia. Violet had thought this through. She didn¡¯t plan to make things hard for the unremarkable girl. She might even offer her some protection among the other students. In return, all she wanted was to reclaim her own honor and force Shia to concede before her. But what came out of her mouth sounded more like a threat. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t want anything bad to happen to your little friend, would you, Shia?¡± Her tone was mocking as she swept her gaze over him, her silver hair gleaming under the light. A faint smirk curled her lips, exuding an air of dominance. To Violet, intimidating a plain girl was a trivial matter. After all, she was the revered Princess of the Silver Moon. Could something so simple even pose a challenge? The high-and-mighty princess now presented these terms to Shia with full confidence. Her arrogance was palpable, as though victory was already in her grasp. Shia stared at the obstinate princess blocking his way, utterly speechless. Negotiate? She called this negotiation?Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. Why was she always so insufferably arrogant? Answer: She hadn¡¯t been properly put in her place yet. ¡°Princess, it seems you¡¯re not very skilled at social interactions,¡± Shia commented dryly, his voice carrying a hint of danger. His expression remained calm, betraying no hint of anger. As a result, Violet failed to notice the impending storm. ¡°I am not!¡± Violet snapped defensively, not even pausing to think. She was the Princess of the Silver Moon, excelling in every field. Social skills? Something so trivial? How could she possibly lack proficiency? She raised her chin proudly, exuding self-assurance. ¡°Stop changing the subject. Just give me your answer already,¡± she demanded, clearly expecting Shia to kneel and submit to her. Hmph. She¡¯d already figured out his weak point. What good would changing the subject do? If he cooperated quickly, she might even consider going easy on that unremarkable girl. Her long, slender legs, clad in pristine white stockings, exuded an air of nobility and cold allure. Shia, however, found her antics tiresome. Despite her previous failures, she still hadn¡¯t learned her lesson. He had no interest in pursuing this prickly princess, nor did he want any unnecessary entanglements with her. If he could, he¡¯d prefer for them to stay out of each other¡¯s way entirely. But she kept coming back, brimming with confidence and disrupting his life. It was a waste of time. If this continued, she¡¯d keep pestering him indefinitely. This was already the fourth time she¡¯d sought him out. Shia truly didn¡¯t want to deal with her. Especially since she¡¯d dragged others into it this time. If the socially anxious Rong had to face someone like this¡ It would interfere with his progress in building rapport with her. And interfering with his rapport-building meant delaying the unlocking of his ring. Delaying the unlocking of his ring meant setting back his cultivation journey. With the impending chaos just a year away, time was a luxury he couldn¡¯t afford to waste. Thus¡ BANG! The classroom door slammed shut with a loud thud. Violet took a startled step back, momentarily stunned. Shia¡¯s presence loomed over her, his breath enveloping her entire world. Even through his shirt, she could feel his body heat¡ªa touch warmer than hers. His overpowering aura left her slightly dizzy. Having never been treated this way before, Violet was utterly unprepared. She hadn¡¯t even processed what was happening. ¡°Weren¡¯t you asking for my answer?¡± His voice came from above, snapping her back to the present. What answer? Oh, right. She had cornered him to negotiate. But what was happening now? As Violet instinctively looked up, Shia leaned in, delivering his response in the most unexpected way. He stole her first kiss. His lips pressed against hers, firm yet unyielding. Violet¡¯s eyes widened in shock, her entire body freezing in place. What¡ What was going on? How had things turned out like this? This wasn¡¯t how it was supposed to go! She had cornered him, armed with his weakness. He was supposed to panic, get angry, and eventually relent to her demands, right? But¡ One hand braced against the door, the other pinning her shoulder, Shia left no room for resistance. In that moment, his thoughts drifted to the game¡¯s storyline. There were many ways to tackle the route involving this haughty princess, but they all led to the same conclusion. Whether it was dethroning her as the top student or proving his strength in later confrontations, all paths involved clashing with her. For Violet, these conflicts represented a loss of attention¡ªattention she didn¡¯t necessarily crave but which bolstered her influence over the Silver Moon Kingdom. In other words, conflict was inevitable. Without sufficient leverage, there was no way to capture this princess¡¯s interest. But any attempts at interaction only strained their relationship further. Ultimately, all of it benefited Lilith, his fianc¨¦e¡ªthe true mastermind. The more he antagonized Violet, the more room it gave Lilith to play the role of peacemaker and protector, solidifying her position as the heroine. So no matter what he did, he¡¯d only be pushing this difficult princess into Lilith¡¯s arms. Given their opposing goals, their methods might align, but their ultimate objectives clashed. Since Violet loved seeking outside help to gain the upper hand, their disputes only escalated further. Faced with this, Shia decided to stop holding back. If he was going to be cast as the villain, he might as well embrace the role fully. Violet finally snapped out of her daze, anger bubbling up inside her. This was supposed to be her moment to intimidate him! How had it turned into this? She struggled to fight back. Though her wrists were pinned, she had other means at her disposal. ¡ªThe infamous low blow. Without hesitation, she struck. But the next moment, her ankle was caught in Shia¡¯s hand. Indeed, her white-stocking-clad legs were as elegant and flexible as ever. Her leg was raised high above her head in a perfect split, her skirt fanning out to reveal tantalizing glimpses of the lush scenery beneath. Shia casually removed her boots. "Why wear long boots in this summer heat?" he mused. Even though she¡¯d tried to harm him, he still considered her comfort. Such a selfless classmate like him¡ªa true model of virtue¡ªwas rare to find. Through the sheer white of her stockings, her delicate feet were soft and supple, proving the reputation of "pristine white snow cream" well-de served. Now, it was time for Lesson Two of Princess Violet¡¯s Education. Chapter 79: The Tribulations of the Silver Moon Princess, Senpai is Right Outside, Please Stop! (3) Chapter 79: The Tribulations of the Silver Moon Princess, Senpai is Right Outside, Please Stop! (3) The Tribulations of the Silver Moon Princess had officially begun! Violet was beside herself, overwhelmed by tension and shame. Though there was no crowd of students this time, they were still in a public space. What if someone walked in? It was her first time being touched by a man¡ªand an annoying one at that. She clenched her teeth, nerves fraying as she worried about the imminent return of students or teachers. Shia noticed her reddening face and increasingly watery gaze. He smiled kindly, yet with a hint of mischief. This was straight out of the playbook for dealing with stubborn characters in games. Having found her weak spot, he wasn¡¯t going to let this opportunity pass without driving his point home. How else would she learn? Violet bit her lip, her eyes filled with a trace of bewilderment. Her body stiffened from the tension, making her unable to move. To Shia, her stockings were impressively smooth and soft to the touch. The more she feared something, the more it seemed to happen. Just as Violet was teetering on the edge of breaking, someone unexpected arrived. Through the window, Lilith spotted Violet, looking unusually flustered but still composed. Her face seemed slightly flushed. Lilith¡¯s eyes lit up, and she quickly walked over. ¡°Ah, there you are, Violet! I¡¯ve been looking for you,¡± she called cheerfully. Violet turned her head slightly, a strand of her silver hair falling across her cheek. Unlike her usual dignified demeanor, this made her appear softer, more alluring. ¡°Violet, I¡¯ve given it some thought. It¡¯s better to resolve conflicts than to escalate them. Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site. ¡°Why don¡¯t you and Shia both take a step back? For my sake, perhaps? ¡°I promise to keep him in check, make sure he acts more gentlemanly toward you in the future. ¡°Don¡¯t take his bluntness to heart. Let bygones be bygones. We¡¯re all classmates and should strive to be good friends.¡± Lilith¡¯s tone carried a sense of authority and maturity as she earnestly tried to mediate the tension between Shia and Violet. As for the sweet, reassuring words she¡¯d once whispered to Violet? Those were meant to comfort her when emotions were high. Now that Violet was calmer, it was time for rational discussion and resolution. Lilith felt the timing was perfect. With the classroom empty, it was an ideal setting for a heart-to-heart with Violet. Of course, her intentions weren¡¯t entirely selfless. She genuinely wanted both her fianc¨¦ and her cherished junior to coexist harmoniously. ¡°Is that so?¡± Violet¡¯s voice was so soft that Lilith had to lean in closer to hear. ¡°Violet, why don¡¯t you open the door so we can talk properly?¡± Violet¡¯s dazed expression lingered for a moment before she fully registered Lilith¡¯s words. Shaking her head, her meticulously groomed silver hair loosened slightly. ¡°It¡¯s fine, Lilith,¡± she replied, her voice steady but distracted. Her demeanor, however, seemed slightly off. Only her flushed face peeked out from behind the door, giving Lilith the impression that something wasn¡¯t quite right. ¡°Are you okay, Violet?¡± Lilith tilted her head, concern evident in her expression. Violet finally met her gaze, though her eyes appeared unfocused. Determined to preserve her dignity, she refused to let Lilith inside. ¡°I¡¯m fine, Lilith. Please¡ ah!¡± Lilith¡¯s ears perked up, her curiosity growing. She stepped a bit closer. ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Violet?¡± ¡°Stay back!¡± Violet¡¯s breathing quickened, her face growing even redder. Her sudden outburst made Lilith pause, though it only deepened her curiosity. ¡°Let¡¯s discuss this later,¡± Violet finally managed, her voice trembling as she forced out a long sentence with multiple pauses. Yet her efforts couldn¡¯t fully suppress the occasional gasps slipping through. Lilith¡¯s confusion only grew. What was happening on the other side of the door? Had Violet encountered some sort of problem? Still, the sound of her soft, breathy voice lingered in Lilith¡¯s mind. It was surprisingly pleasant. She couldn¡¯t help but wonder¡ªin a private setting, how much more enchanting would Violet¡¯s voice become? Lost in her imagination, Lilith began envisioning scenarios involving herself and Violet, each more extravagant than the last. Her thoughts spiraled into fantasies far too indecent to articulate. Meanwhile, beyond Lilith¡¯s sight, her dear fianc¨¦ was diligently "helping" Violet with a therapeutic foot massage. Leaning close to her ear, Shia¡¯s warm breath tickled as he whispered softly. ¡°Violet, I think Lilith¡¯s advice is spot on. Conflicts should be resolved, not prolonged. Look, I¡¯m even being helpful here. Let bygones be bygones, alright?¡± Violet¡¯s heart sank. Why did these situations keep happening to her? First, it was the freshman sparring match, where this infuriating guy had recorded and blackmailed her. Then, he cornered her during class. And now, this! On prior occasions, the presence of onlookers had kept her resentment bottled up. But this time¡ why did Lilith have to pick this exact moment to talk? She wanted Lilith to leave immediately. Otherwise, if she let out any sound she couldn¡¯t suppress, it would be utterly humiliating. As a proud princess, she couldn¡¯t let that happen. But Lilith, persistent as ever, clung to her role like glue, refusing to budge. Her endless attempts to converse only heightened Violet¡¯s tension. The more anxious she grew, the more sensitive her body became. Every sensation from Shia¡¯s ministrations on her delicate foot grew sharper. Inwardly, Violet wailed. These two were truly a matched pair in tormenting her! In that moment, all of Violet¡¯s suppressed frustration and anger surged toward Lilith. Her goodwill toward the sunny upperclassman plummeted to zero¡ªmatching the deep-seated dislike she felt for Shia. Now, instead of Shia pushing Violet into Lilith¡¯s arms, she loathed them both equally. What could this be called? A synchronized duet of chaos!
A Special Thank You!: I want to extend my deepest gratitude to [Toffi coffe], for supporting me on Patreon!Chapter 80: The Princesss Feet Don’t Smell Chapter 80: The Princess''s Feet Don¡¯t Smell By the time Violet finally managed to shoo Lilith away, she was utterly drained. Clutching the doorknob tightly, her legs trembled as she barely managed to support herself with the remaining strength in her body. She looked at Shia, her gaze filled with a mix of shame and fury. Faced with her accusatory glare, Shia remained entirely unfazed, even wearing a mocking expression. ¡°So, have you learned how to interact with others now?¡± Lilith¡¯s earlier shiver now made perfect sense to Violet. Finally, she understood what Shia¡¯s cryptic words from the beginning had meant. Back then, she naively thought he was just trying to change the subject. Her gaze showed a hint of fear, her body trembling slightly as she nodded reluctantly in submission. Violet curled up on the bench, her eyes filled with terror. Her delicate figure trembled, all traces of her earlier arrogance gone. She now resembled a helpless prey. Her slender, white-stocking-clad legs pressed tightly together, her dainty feet crossed over each other as if to protect against another surprise attack from Shia. Shia glanced down at her, his towering presence suffocating. He turned to leave, opening the door without another word. But before stepping out, he gave her a parting remark. ¡°Violet.¡± Hearing his voice, Violet¡¯s body tensed, trembling more violently. Shia¡¯s lips curled into a teasing smile, his gaze lingering on her white-stockinged feet. ¡°Wearing boots all the time can easily lead to foot odor.¡± Violet¡¯s entire body froze, her complexion turning pale as if she¡¯d been struck by lightning. Foot odor¡ foot odor¡ foot odor¡ Those two words spiraled endlessly in her mind, becoming a haunting echo.Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit. She began to doubt herself, almost bending over to check for herself. *Bang!* The door closed again. Violet remained dazed, unable to snap out of the nightmare Shia had left her with. ¡°But I just changed into these stockings this morning!¡± she muttered to herself after what felt like an eternity. Her cheeks flushed red with embarrassment and indignation. Meanwhile, Shia strolled leisurely away, his hands behind his head, a smirk on his face. A virtual panel, visible only to him, displayed Violet¡¯s name alongside a 20% submission rate. He was quite pleased with the progress. At the same time, Violet curled up further into herself, hugging her knees tightly. Her face buried between her legs as she quietly licked her wounds. ¡°Bullied to tears again,¡± she murmured, biting her lip in frustration. ¡°Hmph! Outsiders really can¡¯t be trusted.¡± Lilith¡¯s earlier attempts to mediate had backfired completely, leaving Violet feeling even more humiliated and uncomfortable. The only person Violet could rely on was her close friend, who had been away on an academy-assigned mission. That friend had always stood by her side, ensuring no one dared to bully her. For now, all Violet could do was wait patiently for her friend¡¯s return. While Violet¡¯s request for help was put on hold, Lilith¡¯s plea for assistance was already at Shia¡¯s doorstep. When Shia returned to the villa, a stunning blonde girl was standing in the courtyard, gazing toward the gate as if waiting for him. When she spotted his silhouette, her eyes lit up, and her delicate face seemed to come alive, radiating warmth and anticipation. She looked like a devoted wife eagerly awaiting her husband¡¯s return. ¡°You¡¯re back?¡± As Shia approached, Lilith took two steps forward to meet him, her demeanor exuding gentle sweetness. ¡°What are you doing out here waiting for me?¡± Shia asked, mildly surprised but not entirely so. Especially given her charming, tea-like composure, he found her behavior a bit unsettling. ¡°I thought you might be tired from class, so I wanted to help you relax,¡± Lilith replied. ¡°Oh?¡± As Shia changed his shoes, he casually expressed his skepticism. Lilith had expected him to be touched by her gesture, but his indifferent reaction caught her off guard. Still, she didn¡¯t let it dampen her spirits. Instead, her soft smile remained firmly in place. ¡°I made your favorite night-blooming green tea. Why don¡¯t you try it?¡± Lilith offered, gesturing for him to follow her to the tea room. Her demeanor was practiced and natural, like the mistress of the house entertaining a guest. Shia raised an eyebrow, his tone laced with an ambiguous undertone. ¡°Is that so?¡± ¡°It¡¯s been a while since you¡¯ve had my tea, hasn¡¯t it?¡± she prompted with a knowing smile. Shia nodded. ¡°That¡¯s true.¡± Lilith¡¯s smile deepened. ¡°Then let¡¯s try it today, shall we?¡± By this point, they had reached the tea room. Lilith knelt gracefully before the tea table, her black-stockinged legs elegantly folded, her posture accentuating her curves as she leaned forward slightly. Shia took a seat opposite her, his voice cutting through the moment unexpectedly. ¡°But I prefer black tea.¡± Lilith¡¯s smile froze momentarily, her movements pausing in mild embarrassment. However, being the skilled conversationalist she was, she quickly brushed off the moment and continued gracefully. ¡°Try it anyway. It¡¯s delicious,¡± she coaxed, pouring a cup and sliding it toward him with a playful wink. Shia lowered his gaze to the steaming cup in front of him, a faint smile playing on his lips¡ªthough it was more mocking than cheerful. Internally, he couldn¡¯t help but find the situation ironic. Lilith, however, misinterpreted his expression as approval, her earlier discomfort fading. Years of carefully nurturing this relationship had paid off, and she felt in control again. ¡°You really don¡¯t have any other reason for waiting here?¡± Shia asked, blowing gently on the tea. ¡°Well, there is something I need your help with,¡± Lilith admitted, her smile sweet as ever. She rose, walking around the tea table to sit beside him. Her proximity was deliberate, her tone soft and persuasive as she finally revealed her true intentions. ¡°You¡¯re aware of the academy¡¯s monthly mission policy, aren¡¯t you? Each student is required to complete at least one task.¡± ¡°Mm-hmm.¡± Shia took a sip of tea, internally lamenting how inferior it was compared to Lilith¡¯s usual skill. He remained silent, waiting for her to continue. ¡°This month, our grade¡¯s task is to raid the largest underground slave auction,¡± Lilith explained. Important Hello everyone! I hope you¡¯re all doing well! I wanted to share an update: starting today, chapters will now be released at a pace of 1 chapter per day.A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation. For those who visit my Patreon, tomorrow you¡¯ll find collections of new chapters organized by tier. Each tier will have its own dedicated collection with chapters already scheduled for convenient access. No Notifications on Patreon: To ensure no one feels overwhelmed by daily updates, there won¡¯t be any notifications for new posts. Simply visit your collection to read the chapters at your own pace. Thank you so much for your continued support¡ªit means a lot to me! ?? Important Update 2 A Quick Guide to My Patreon Tiers: Unlock More Chapters! If you''re considering joining my Patreon, here''s what you can expect: ?? 5 Tiers to Choose From: ? Level 1 <$5> (7-day free trial!): -15 extra chapters of the story [From Pawn to King: Ruling a Harem of Chaos] ? Level 2 <$15>: -50 extra chapters of the story [From Pawn to King: Ruling a Harem of Chaos]The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. ? Level 3 <$30>: -105 extra chapters of the story [From Pawn to King: Ruling a Harem of Chaos] ? Level 4 <$50>: -175 extra chapters of the story [From Pawn to King: Ruling a Harem of Chaos] (IN PROGRESS) (Chapters are still in progress) ? Level 4.5 <$42> (Limited to 7 subscribers only!): -175 extra chapters of the story [From Pawn to King: Ruling a Harem of Chaos] (IN PROGRESS) Enjoy the same benefits as Level 4 at a special price. ---------- Don¡¯t miss out¡ªchoose the tier that suits you best and start exploring these epic stories today! --------- (What does the free trial mean? You can subscribe to this tier without being charged immediately. You''ll have full access to all Level 1 benefits for 7 days. If you enjoy the content, your subscription will start automatically after the trial period ends. If not, you can cancel anytime within those 7 days without paying anything.) chapter 81: Teaching You How to Get the Elf Princess for Free (1) chapter 81: Teaching You How to Get the Elf Princess for Free (1) ¡°Good luck with that,¡± Shia replied nonchalantly. Lilith pouted slightly, clearly unimpressed with his lack of enthusiasm. ¡°Slave trading is illegal and harms countless lives and rights. The traders and buyers involved are nothing but criminals. I need your help to ensure our mission succeeds. You can pose as a buyer and work with me from the inside to catch them all in one fell swoop!¡± Her expression was radiant with righteousness, her eyes sparkling with determination. She spoke as if she were on a holy crusade. Shia smirked inwardly. This so-called tea was turning out to be far more costly than expected. Lilith¡¯s plan was flawless on the surface, but it was clear she had ulterior motives. Her scheme would undeniably benefit her, though at great risk to him. ¡°Going undercover as a buyer sounds dangerous,¡± Shia remarked, his tone calm. ¡°Not at all,¡± Lilith reassured him confidently. ¡°With me there, you have nothing to worry about. I¡¯ll protect you. Disguising you as a buyer is just to ensure no criminals escape.¡± She leaned in slightly, her voice filled with conviction. ¡°Rescuing those enslaved and bringing the culprits to justice is a noble cause. The academy will surely reward you for your contributions, boosting your reputation.¡± As Lilith continued her impassioned speech, Shia observed her delicate features, her lips moving as she spoke. He knew the true climax of the story was fast approaching. The underground slave auction would mark a turning point for Lilith, cementing her rise to prominence. While the plot had reached its mid-stage since the academy arc began, this event would be her true breakout moment. Not only would she earn fame, but she would also acquire an elf Princess as a pseudo-divine slave¡ªa key figure in her journey to power. And so, Lilith had found her trump card for self-destruction. The price, of course, was Shia being beaten half to death. But since the pain wasn¡¯t hers to endure, it wasn¡¯t really a price at all. Who cares if the devoted lapdog gets hurt? In the original plot, following Lilith¡¯s instructions, Shia acted as an undercover buyer. But in reality, he was just a pawn. He purchased the enslaved Elf Princess, only for Lilith to swoop in heroically, ¡°rescue¡± her, and conveniently claim her as her own. The plan was crude yet effective. Naturally, heroism requires a villain to punish. Unluckily for Shia, he was cast in that role.A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation. This ill-favored tea truly cost him dearly¡ªhalf his life, to be exact. Meanwhile, Lilith continued feeding Shia her syrupy words of persuasion. ¡°Shia, you have no idea how pitifu l the people captured by slave traders are.¡± ¡°There¡¯s one poor elf who was taken to that place by those evil people.¡± ¡°Since this is a group operation, any slip-ups or carelessness might lead to that poor elf suffering even more.¡± ¡°To ensure her safety, can you do me this little favor?¡± Lilith¡¯s wide, innocent eyes brimmed with sincerity and expectation. Did she truly not know how dangerous this was? Unlikely. She was merely using every resource available, her fianc¨¦ included, without a care for his well-being. Lilith was fully aware that Shia couldn¡¯t cultivate and was just an ordinary person. But what did that matter to her? In her mind, even if Shia¡¯s strength was inadequate for such a perilous mission, wouldn¡¯t the academy headmaster¡¯s protection suffice? With such a strong guardian watching over him, Shia¡¯s safety was practically guaranteed. Naturally, he was the perfect candidate for the job. Lilith used emotional appeals and logical reasoning, emphasizing the elf girl¡¯s plight and the headmaster¡¯s power, crafting the illusion that only Shia could succeed in this mission. As it happened, Shia had the same idea¡ªbut for a different reason. Using the Guen heiress¡¯s resources, he planned to snatch the heroine role from her and claim the Elf Princess for himself. Here¡¯s how you acquire an Elf Princess without spending a dime. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll help you,¡± Shia finally agreed, his expression conflicted. Lilith¡¯s heart leapt with excitement, though she maintained her composed fa?ade. ¡°I knew you¡¯d agree! Only you can handle this task. I trust you completely!¡± ¡°But buying a slave requires money, doesn¡¯t it?¡± Shia asked earnestly. ¡°You¡¯ve asked me to pose as a buyer and purchase her, but you know I¡¯m broke despite living here.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Just find her and stay by her side. I¡¯ll bring the other students to join you and ensure everything goes smoothly,¡± Lilith reassured him. ¡°But wouldn¡¯t that risk exposing us? What if my act isn¡¯t convincing enough and we¡¯re discovered prematurely?¡± Lilith hesitated briefly. While she didn¡¯t care about Shia¡¯s life, she was deeply invested in the Elf Princess¡¯s survival. ¡°If the criminals try to harm us¡¡± With a reluctant sigh, she produced a small pouch of gold coins and handed it to Shia. ¡°Take this,¡± she said, visibly pained by the gesture. Lilith¡¯s reluctance was clear. Though she wasn¡¯t short on money, giving it to Shia was an entirely different matter. After all, how else would he remain perpetually penniless? Thinking she¡¯d been generous, Lilith didn¡¯t expect Shia to give her a disdainful look. ¡°That¡¯s it? Are you worried I might not look poor enough to fit in?¡± He weighed the coins in his hand, then gave Lilith a once-over. His gaze seemed to say, ¡°You¡¯re from the illustrious Guen family, and this is all you can offer?¡± Faced with her fianc¨¦¡¯s disdain, Lilith, the proud Guen heiress, couldn¡¯t stand the humiliation. This wouldn¡¯t do. The Guen family¡¯s wealth was beyond ordinary comprehension. ¡°Gold coins? Please. That¡¯s nothing to me,¡± Lilith scoffed, casually tossing another large pouch of coins onto the table. Shia¡¯s eyes gleamed at the sight, which didn¡¯t escape Lilith¡¯s notice. With a smug smile, she added yet another pouch, followed by a sleek black card. ¡°Here. This card holds more gold than you could spend in a lifetime. Is that enough?¡± Shia¡¯s face lit up with a smile, brimming with satisfaction. ¡°Plenty. With this much money, forget one elf¡ªI could buy you an entire caravan of them.¡± ¡°Truly befitting of the prestigious Guen family,¡± he added, earning an even prouder expression from Lilith. ¡°Lilith, why don¡¯t you stay over tonight? I¡¯ll personally cook to show my gratitude,¡± Shia offered. Lilith stiffened, recalling the dog kennel in the courtyard. ¡°No need. I just came to discuss this matter. Now that it¡¯s settled, I should head home. Tia¡¯s waiting for me,¡± she replied, already heading toward the door. Shia walked her to the entrance, closing the door behind her as the evening breeze cooled the air. It wasn¡¯t until she was outside that realization struck her like a lightning bolt. She had given Shia her black card! That card contained years of savings and pocket money! Her expression twisted in anguish as she glanced back at the closed door, torn between demanding the card back and sticking to her plan. Ultimately, she consoled herself with the thought that it was all worth it. Soon, she would have a loyal Elf Princess as her prize. By repeating this mantra, Lilith managed to suppress her heartache over her depleted funds. The next evening, Shia set off alone for the underground auction. Though called an underground auction, the venue appeared to be nothing more than an unassuming villa. Cars came and went, the exterior eerily quiet, betraying nothing of the events within. When Shia stepped into the villa, she discovered an entirely different world within. The luxurious decor gleamed with opulence, every corner shining in gold and silver. Dressed in a fine silk robe and donning a pure white mask, Shia¡¯s gaze swept around the room with an air of elegance and composure. This slave auction was structured distinctly into two levels. The ground floor hosted ordinary slave transactions. The entire interior of the villa had been opened up, lined with cages reaching up to the ceiling. Inside the cages were a variety of slaves. While some were human, the majority were other races. However, the true spectacle was on the second floor, where only the finest slaves were held. But Shia had no intention of heading upstairs. His purpose here was to intercept Lilith¡¯s acquisition of the Elven Princess. chapter 82: Teaching You How to Get the Elf Princess for Free (2) chapter 82: Teaching You How to Get the Elf Princess for Free (2) Currently disguised as a frail and pitiable little elf, she had been placed among the common slaves on the ground floor. Shia glanced around, feeling a bit at a loss. The slaves here included humans, but there were far more from other races. Even narrowing it down to elves, there were still numerous elf-like slaves. In the game, NPCs were mere background props, but here, they were living, breathing individuals without task markers to identify them. It was impossible to find her just like this. After wandering around the first floor, Shia came up with a plan. If he couldn¡¯t find her, then he¡¯d make her come to him. If the mountain won¡¯t come to me, I¡¯ll go to the mountain! ¡°This one, this one, and this one¡ªI want them all!¡± Shia¡¯s voice carried an arrogant and superior tone as he waved his hand, pointing out one elf after another. Knowing the plot well, Shia was fully aware of the Elven Princess¡¯s personality. Righteous to a fault, she loved to masquerade as the weak and toy with her prey, possessing an intense sense of justice. So Shia¡¯s strategy was to paint himself as a target to draw her attention. Whether or not the Elven Princess noticed Shia wasn¡¯t immediately clear, but his lavish display certainly caught the attention of the slave traders. They eagerly approached him with ingratiating smiles, offering to introduce the slaves. But Shia showed single-minded interest, focusing only on elves. He purchased every elf slave available, clearing out the entire floor. The slave traders were grinning from ear to ear. Shia, too, was pleased. This place would soon face judgment, making this a perfect opportunity for a free ride. Any money spent now was just an empty promise. It was all about projecting wealth and extravagance.Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit. And Shia¡¯s antics successfully drew the attention of his intended target. The silver-haired little elf curled up in her cage, her timid eyes scanning the passing buyers, assessing who might become her prey. But soon, her gaze locked onto the extravagant, black-haired young man making such a bold spectacle of himself. Quietly observing him, it was clear she had already placed Shia at the top of her hit list. ¡°Those who covet elves must die!¡± ¡°And those who harm the Elven race so blatantly deserve even worse.¡± She silently resolved that once the moment was right, he¡¯d be her first target. The slave traders, ever accommodating to a big spender, ensured Shia received the best treatment. Even before payment was completed, they provided transportation and carefully loaded all the elves he purchased onto a vehicle. Then they calculated the costs. Meanwhile, the Elven Princess bided her time. What she didn¡¯t expect was that after arranging the elves on the transport, Shia began freeing them one by one. Shia placed a finger to his lips, signaling them to stay quiet. ¡°The area is crawling with their people right now. Don¡¯t make a sound. Soon, I¡¯ll take you out of here and send you back to the Elven kingdom.¡± Shia¡¯s good looks, gentle voice, and soft, deliberate movements left the freed elves momentarily stunned. They stared at him in astonishment, gratitude, and disbelief. Some even harbored doubts. Among them, the Elven Princess also froze. Watching Shia¡¯s actions, she felt deeply conflicted. She had assumed Shia to be a heinous villain, yet here he was, seemingly a savior descending from the heavens. The elves held by these traders were mostly poached and kidnapped, sold to individuals with twisted interests for profit. Thus, everyone here¡ªwhether seller or buyer¡ªwas a villain in her eyes. But among the crowd of presumed scoundrels, someone had bought them just to set them free? Did I misjudge him? The Elven Princess hesitated, her confusion evident. But her hesitation was fleeting. Her gaze at Shia remained filled with suspicion and hatred. How could a human be so kind-hearted? All humans are wicked and deserve to burn in hell! There had to be some ulterior motive behind his actions! Her natural distrust and hostility toward humans resurfaced. A crazed, vengeful spirit¡ªthat was her true nature. Killing intent began to grow. Inside the truck, besides the gradually freed elves, Shia was the only human present. If she acted now, it would undoubtedly be the perfect moment! Shia, still focused on unlocking the shackles of the other elves, seemed completely unaware of the looming danger. Or was he? The Elven Princess had been observing Shia, but Shia had also been paying close attention to her. He might not have recognized her disguise, but the overwhelming hostility she radiated in contrast to the other confused and grateful elves made her stand out like a sore thumb. Exactly as he¡¯d hoped! Such intense animosity among a group gradually moving from fear to gratitude was impossible to miss. She had practically outed herself. Shia casually unlocked another elf¡¯s restraints before turning around to face a silver-haired girl. Her tattered clothing barely concealed her delicate frame. Despite her frail and pale appearance, there was an undeniable allure to her youthful curves. Though she seemed unremarkable among the many beautiful elves, Shia now had his target. The question was, how to approach her? For someone as hostile and righteous as the Elven Princess, sincerity was the best weapon. Shia crouched before her, his voice soft and soothing. ¡°You don¡¯t look well. Are you feeling sick? Hold on a little longer, and once we¡¯re out of here, I¡¯ll get you a doctor.¡± As he spoke, Shia¡¯s hands gently worked on the chains binding her. The restraints bore anti-magic seals, the ideal means of imprisonment. Without hesitation, Shia¡¯s deft hands undid the chains with ease. Then, reaching out, he tenderly wiped away the dirt smudging her cheek. His clear, bright eyes carried no trace of malice. It was as if he didn¡¯t care about the risks of freeing her or the potential danger he might face. Pure kindness and trust radiated from him. Even faced with her dirty, unkempt state, he didn¡¯t show a hint of disdain. His fingers brushed against her soft skin, the warmth of his touch leaving a tingling sensation behind. The silver-haired elf¡¯s ears flushed a deep red. Her heart raced wildly, and her gaze fixated on Shia, unable to muster any reaction. Could he really be a good person? He doesn¡¯t mind that I¡¯m dirty. He¡¯s not afraid I¡¯ll run. He even worries about whether I¡¯m unwell. Could there really be good humans in the world? Shia gently cleaned the dirt from her face, then placed one hand on her forehead and the other on his own to check her temperature. ¡°Not bad, no fever,¡± he said, flashing a bright, sunny smile. The Elven Princess stared at Shia, her initial hatred wavering. Her gaze softened as she etched his visage into her heart, branding him as a glimmer of pure light amid the darkness. Meanwhile, a truck quietly arrived at the villa¡¯s back entrance. A group of students clad in Seven Shields Academy uniforms began disembarking one by one. Handsome men and beautiful women, each more striking than the last. Among them, a blonde girl in a red dress and black stockings stood out the most. Under the sparkling lights, Lilith was about to take center stage. The reckoning was about to begin! Chapter 83: The Deranged Elven Princess Turns Into Steam Maiden (1) Chapter 83: The Deranged Elven Princess Turns Into Steam Maiden (1) These senior students, each with at least fifth-tier strength, were more than enough to deal with a small underground slave auction. It was like cutting through butter with a hot knife. While the slave traders were busy calculating profits, their faces alight with greed, the sound of wails and screams echoed from inside the villa. "Boom!" A six-pointed magic circle shot forward, obliterating everything in its path, until it blasted open the doors to the second-floor auction backstage. Lilith watched as the magic circle dissolved, then lowered her staff. Her chin tilted slightly upward, her radiance captivating and dazzling. The stunning blonde girl became the nightmare of everyone present. "Go!" With Lilith¡¯s command, the senior students sprang into action. Unfortunately, the intended audience (the Elven Princess) wasn¡¯t there to see it! Confronting the senior students from Seven Shields Academy head-on was obviously a losing strategy. The fleeing crowd immediately sought escape vehicles. Since secrecy was paramount, their transport had been stationed elsewhere after dropping them off. In their desperation, the spacious trucks carrying Shia and the elf slaves became the most desirable escape option. "Bang!" The truck¡¯s doors were flung open, startling the elves inside. In the midst of them, Shia stood out, still tenderly wiping the Elven Princess¡¯s face. In an instant, Shia faced another life-or-death challenge! But he didn¡¯t need to act. The moment the intruders appeared, a sinister glint flashed in the Elven Princess¡¯s eyes. Her face twisted into a sickly smile. Once shielded behind Shia, she now stepped forward. Her silver hair swayed in the wind, as a crimson mist began to bloom.Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. Screams and bursts of blood became the backdrop for the seemingly frail elven girl. The would-be escapees found themselves running from one grim reaper straight into another. The ground was littered with corpses and severed limbs. The silver-haired elf turned back, her youthful face speckled with tiny drops of red, not much but enough to send chills down spines. Her body remained pristine, though her hands were soaked in crimson. She fully expected to see terror in Shia¡¯s eyes¡ªthe disgusted gaze of someone seeing a demon. But as their eyes met, there was only calm. As if the carnage around them didn¡¯t exist. Utter serenity. The silver-haired elf approached Shia step by step, finally crouching before him. A blood-soaked elven girl and a composed young man squatted on the ground, facing each other. She tilted her head slightly, looking up at Shia. "Aren¡¯t you afraid of someone like me?" Her voice, clear and melodious, carried the allure of a death god¡¯s whisper. Shia shook his head. "I could kill you, you know~!" The Elven Princess¡¯s twisted smile returned as she reached out toward him. Her feigned menace resembled a playful ghost attempting to spook someone, adorably mischievous. Yet just moments ago, she had mercilessly slaughtered those slave traders who dared to enter. Surely, now he¡¯d fear her? But still, no reaction! Shia smiled warmly, reaching out to pat her silver hair. It was warm and soft, his hand grazing the long, delicate elf ears. "Actually, I should thank you," Shia said softly. "If you hadn¡¯t acted, they would¡¯ve tried to kill me to silence any witnesses." His gentle smile was lethal to a girl starved for affection. "Thump-thump! Thump-thump!" The Elven Princess could hear her own heartbeat pounding in her chest. She might have just tasted the sweetness of infatuation. Her ears turned scarlet, the blush spreading rapidly across her face. She was on the verge of becoming a steam maiden! Elsewhere in the villa, Lilith led the charge, her staff casting radiant spells. With every wave, another vile trader fell, or another imprisoned slave was freed. She was always at the forefront, yet confusion gnawed at her. Where was Shia? Wasn¡¯t he supposed to pose as a buyer and cooperate with her from within? Though puzzled, Lilith maintained her warm demeanor, gently rescuing an older elf woman from a cramped cage. "Don¡¯t worry, we¡¯re here to save you." Her soft voice calmed the panicked elf. Although many had been rescued, Lilith couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that none were the one she was looking for. Shaking her head, she tried to dismiss the premonition, but it stubbornly lingered. She couldn¡¯t understand the source of this unease. Back in the truck, provided by the organizers for VIP Shia, chaos lay just outside its doors. Few knew the vehicle existed, and those who did now lay motionless on the ground. Inside, the Elven Princess struggled to reconcile her feelings. This was the human she hated most. So why did she feel¡ drawn to him? It was too strange! Shia noticed something amiss as he gazed into her eyes. The silver-haired elf¡¯s hair began to change color, transitioning from silver to gold. Her youthful, delicate features grew dazed. Even the blush on her face faded. She closed her eyes briefly. When she reopened them, confusion filled her gaze. The deranged, unstable aura around her dissipated, replaced by a gentle, demure demeanor. Her pure, innocent eyes met Shia¡¯s, and after a moment of hesitation, she smiled softly. She stood up gracefully, stepping back with her left foot and crossing it behind her right. Lifting the hem of her white dress slightly, she performed an elegant, courteous greeting. "Hello." Her manners were impeccable. Shia rose to his feet, returning her smile kindly. "Hello." The now-golden-haired elf retained her soft and polite demeanor but seemed slightly dazed. As she stood, she seemed to notice the sticky sensation on her hands. Looking down at her bloodstained palms, confusion clouded her expression. Shia pulled out a handkerchief, gently wiping her hands clean. The golden-haired elf looked up at him, her face still carrying a hint of naivety. Only after Shia let go of her hands did she clutch her head, trying to piece together recent events. She seemed troubled. Did Little Nia act out behind my back again? How disobedient! We agreed not to do this anymore.
A Special Thank You!: I want to extend my deepest gratitude to [Jose Jimenez AND kekoa haywood], for supporting me on Patreon!Chapter 84: The Deranged Elven Princess Turns Into Steam Maiden (2) Chapter 84: The Deranged Elven Princess Turns Into Steam Maiden (2) Looking at the bloody scene outside the truck and then at her hands, she quickly decided to feign amnesia. "Excuse me, sir, do you know¡ why I¡¯m here?" Nia timidly lifted her delicate face, cautiously gazing at Shia. Her expression was one of fear, yet her actions were bold. The two stood close, and Nia leaned in further, intently observing him. The boy¡¯s face was strikingly handsome, and his height required her to tilt her head to see him clearly. With soft black hair and an aura of comforting warmth, Shia was captivating. Nia moved even closer, sniffing at him like a curious little puppy. She spoke timid words while doing the most daring actions. If Shia had truly been a bad person, she might have been in trouble already. But Nia seemed blissfully unaware of how bold she was acting. Still, she looked at Shia with a timid gaze, waiting for his answer, her mix of innocence and audacity utterly disarming. ¡°You were kidnapped and brought to this slave market to be sold. I saved you,¡± Shia said plainly, his tone reflecting a spectator¡¯s detachment. Nia blinked, her expression still blank, as though overwhelmed by the information. After a few seconds, she covered her mouth and let out a surprised gasp. ¡°Oh? Thank you so much!¡± she exclaimed, her face lighting up with a shy smile. ¡°Let me reintroduce myself. My name is Nia! And really, thank you again!¡± she said, waving at Shia before turning to leave. ¡°No need to thank me.¡± ¡°So, I can leave now, right?¡± Nia tentatively took a step forward, testing the waters. Shia smiled and nodded, making no move to stop her. Really, he¡¯s letting me go? So he really is a good person?Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author. Nia beamed at Shia before carefully lifting her skirt and avoiding the mess on the ground as she walked away, her figure growing smaller in the distance. Shia wasn¡¯t worried about his plan failing. Instead, he stood still and began counting silently in his mind. One, two, three¡ When he reached eighteen, he saw Nia¡¯s figure reappear at the far end of the road. Shia¡¯s smile deepened, entirely unsurprised by this turn of events. A moment later, Nia stood before him again, her large eyes filled with confusion. This time, she had come back specifically to ask for directions. ¡°Excuse me, do you know where this place is?¡± The adorably clueless princess was utterly lost. Faced with unfamiliar surroundings, she had no choice but to return to the seemingly trustworthy boy she had just met. ¡°Even if I point you in the right direction, do you have a place to stay tonight?¡± Shia asked. Nia¡¯s eyes went blank again. She stood frozen, deep in thought, before honestly shaking her head. No, she had no idea where she was, let alone a place to stay. ¡°My house has a cat that can do backflips,¡± Shia said with a gentle smile, his tone reminiscent of an older brother coaxing a child. Nia¡¯s reaction was immediate. Her eyes lit up with excitement. ¡°A cat that can do backflips?¡± Shia nodded, still smiling. ¡°Since you don¡¯t have anywhere to go, why not stay at my place for the night?¡± Nia eagerly nodded, her face brimming with enthusiasm. ¡°Okay, sure!¡± she exclaimed, looking easily convinced. Meanwhile, the ¡°backflipping cat¡± in question¡ªa certain princess named Rong¡ªwas lounging on the sofa, waiting for Shia to return home. Bored out of her mind, she fiddled with her hair, holding strands up to the light streaming through the window. The golden sheen reflected in her hair entertained her briefly, until she heard the sound of the front door opening. In an instant, Rong flipped over on the sofa, sitting upright with a posture of practiced elegance. Her previously languid expression transformed into one of stern seriousness, as though possessed by a different spirit. A true master of theatrics. Hearing footsteps approach, she reached for the book beside her, intending to resume her act as a studious beauty. However, her hand paused mid-reach. She sniffed the air, her sharp senses picking up the unfamiliar scent of another woman. Rong¡¯s eyes narrowed as she turned her gaze toward Shia, who was now walking in with a petite figure trailing behind him. Golden hair cascaded down to the girl¡¯s ankles, framing a small, delicate face with an adorably confused expression. Her petite stature made her look even smaller next to Shia. Green-patterned stockings accentuated her slender, straight legs, while a white dress added a touch of innocence. However, it was her ample bosom, utterly disproportionate to her youthful appearance, that stole the show. It seemed impossible for her to see her feet when she looked down. Her long elf ears clearly marked her as a member of that race. The moment Rong laid eyes on the newcomer, a sense of crisis welled up within her. The pressure was immense. Who is this girl? And why is she here with Shia? Despite her youthful appearance, why is she so¡ developed?! Rong didn¡¯t even need to look down to know there was no comparison between her flat chest and the girl¡¯s exaggerated curves. She felt like her title as the Succubus Princess was slipping away. Her dignity as a succubus was in shambles¡ Before the battle had even begun, she felt utterly defeated. Rong turned her pitiful gaze toward Shia, her eyes brimming with questions. ¡°This is Nia. She has nowhere to stay, so she¡¯ll be staying with us tonight,¡± Shia explained, introducing the girl. Rong stood up, feeling flustered. Her hands fidgeted nervously, wringing together with such force that her fingers turned white. ¡°Ni¡ Nia, hello.¡± Nia blinked, taking a moment to respond before offering an elegant greeting. ¡°Hello. What¡¯s your name?¡± Rong¡¯s face turned bright red. ¡°R-Rong,¡± she mumbled, her voice barely audible. After a long day, Shia felt dusty and tired. As he headed towar d the bathroom, he called out,
A Special Thank You! I want to extend my deepest gratitude to [Michael Brandt], for supporting me on Patreon!chapter 85: The Deranged Elven Princess Turns Into Steam Maiden (3) chapter 85: The Deranged Elven Princess Turns Into Steam Maiden (3) ¡°I¡¯m going to take a bath and change. Rong, take care of Nia for me.¡± Rong grew even more nervous. Faced with a girl who exuded such immense pressure, she felt completely out of her depth. Could she really handle this? She opened her mouth, about to protest, but Shia¡¯s figure had already disappeared down the hallway. Left with no choice, Rong stood awkwardly, gesturing toward the sofa. ¡°Um¡ please, have a seat.¡± Nia turned to look at Rong, then nodded. ¡°Oh, okay.¡± She sat down, still puzzled. Didn¡¯t Shia say there was a cat that could do backflips? She hadn¡¯t seen one yet. But she didn¡¯t ask, choosing instead to sit silently, her expression blank as she zoned out. Rong retreated several steps, cautiously observing Nia. She wanted to say something but hesitated, her words caught in her throat. She couldn¡¯t even bring herself to sit on the same sofa. One, socially awkward cat. One absent-minded raccoon. Neither seemed capable of breaking the silence. When Shia emerged from the bathroom, freshly changed and smelling clean, he found the two girls sitting eight feet apart. One was lost in thought, while the other sat stiffly upright. A flustered cat and a spacey raccoon¡ªa conversation seemed impossible between them. ¡°Pfft!¡± Though it was hardly polite, Shia couldn¡¯t hold back his laughter. Rong turned her head, catching sight of Shia leaning casually against the corner, clearly having been watching for quite some time. Her heart swelled with a mix of frustration and grievance as she shot him a threatening glare. Her delicate, pretty face remained expressionless, but her cold eyes locked onto Shia with a subtle aura of displeasure. I¡¯m stuck in this awkward situation, and you¡¯re just laughing at me? You¡¯re the one who brought her here, yet you¡¯re making me entertain her. If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. You know my personality, but you still left me alone to handle this. This is too much! Even if you¡¯ve given me shelter and work, I¡¯m still mad at you! At least for a day... no, an hour... ten minutes? What seemed like a cold, angry beauty was, in fact, just a pouty act. Meanwhile, Nia turned her attention back to Rong, her bright eyes sparkling with interest. Her gaze moved slowly, studying Rong from head to toe. This girl¡¯s internal monologue is so rich, huh? What a surprising socially anxious type. A smile bloomed on Nia¡¯s soft, adorable face, exuding warmth and charm. Yet her words were anything but considerate. ¡°Are you the backflipping cat Shia mentioned?¡± Rong froze completely, her mind flashing to unpleasant imagery. He... he... he actually said I¡¯m a cat?! Before Rong could react, Nia moved closer, grabbing Rong¡¯s hand with a curious glint in her eyes. She even poked at Rong¡¯s cheek and squeezed her hand experimentally. Rong stood paralyzed. She¡¯s... she¡¯s touching me! Why is she so brazen? The socially anxious princess found herself in a rare crisis. Thankfully, Shia¡¯s prior training had some effect. This time, Rong didn¡¯t push Nia away or show any signs of disgust. Instead, she remained perfectly still, appearing calm despite feeling anything but. Nia watched Rong with a bemused expression, finding her ¡°composed¡± act amusing as her internal screams filled the air. Rong¡¯s gaze wandered, appearing to rest on Nia but failing to focus. The areas of contact between them felt like pinpricks. Despite Nia¡¯s softness and warmth, Rong felt an overwhelming discomfort, exacerbated by the unspoken pressure Nia exuded. Forcing herself to avoid looking at Nia¡¯s abundant chest, Rong desperately sought something she could surpass her in. Appearance? No chance with her current unremarkable look. Figure? Let¡¯s not even go there; it¡¯s too painful. Wait... she¡¯s shorter than me, right? Rong perked up. That was it! Nia barely reached Shia¡¯s shoulder, while Rong could comfortably match his height at the shoulder. See? I¡¯m not entirely inferior! Buoyed by this small victory, Rong felt a flicker of pride as a succubus. Yet, inexplicably, the situation felt even sadder. Nia noticed Rong¡¯s stoic expression but could sense her chaotic inner thoughts. She found it all the more entertaining. However, the day¡¯s events had taken their toll, and Nia finally stifled a yawn, her small hand covering her lips. Exhaustion crept over her, and she realized she needed rest. Seeing Nia¡¯s weary expression, Rong¡¯s hostess instincts kicked in. ¡°Miss Nia, are you tired? Let me show you to the guest room,¡± Rong offered with a small smile. Despite her lingering tension, her movements were composed. Standing up, Rong guided Nia to a room, deliberately emphasizing the words ¡°guest room.¡± Once the villa settled into silence, Rong lay in bed but couldn¡¯t fall asleep. Tossing and turning, she eventually opened her eyes. Insomnia wasn¡¯t uncommon when you were under immense stress. Rong¡¯s thoughts raced. She couldn¡¯t help but notice how many impressive girls Shia had encountered. There was the radiant blonde senior, the mature white-haired maid, and even the academy headmistress seemed to favor him. Violet often stole glances at him, too. Now, there was this pure and beautiful elven lady. Compared to all these exceptional girls, Rong felt woefully inadequate. Was she destined to become a mere background character, a dim sidekick to Shia¡¯s brilliance? Terrifying images flashed through her mind. She shivered. That¡¯s too awful! The more she thought about it, the grimmer her outlook became. Finally, Rong hugged her blanket tightly, curling into a ball as insecurity overtook her. Desperation drove her to act. She extended a hand, summoning a faint purple glow. A rarely used dream-weaving mirror materialized in her palm. Unlike other races, succubi excelled at crafting dreams and ensnaring minds through them. The dream-weaving mirror was a tool for creating her own dreamscapes. Holding the glowing mirror, Rong closed her eyes. Her breathing slowed as she entered a dream state. Surrounded by a white mist, Rong heard footsteps approaching. The fog gradually parted, revealing the figure of a tall, black-haired boy with a handsome face. Shia¡ He walked toward her with a gentle smile, stopping just in front of her. Rong looked up at him, captivated by his elegant features and soothing presence. Shia reached out, softly brushing her cheek. His touch was warm and comforting. Rong¡¯s eyes fluttered closed, savoring the moment. ¡°Rong, I will always be your best friend.¡± ¡°I promise to stay by your side forever.¡± His voice was deep and magnetic, resonating in her heart. Rong smiled, feeling a sense of peace. When she opened her eyes, her appearance had transformed back to her true succubus form. Gone was the plain girl, replaced by a radiant beauty with a pure yet seductive charm. Her tail swayed slightly, betraying her turbulent emotions. But her chest remained flat, a stark reminder of her so-called disgrace as a succubus. Her hand traced downward, gliding over her skin. Her body moved involuntarily, drawn toward the boy before her. Sometimes, even a chaste beauty needed an outlet for her desires. chapter 86: Some Princesses Dream of Charging Forward, While Others Scheme Ambushes in Reality (1) chapter 86: Some Princesses Dream of Charging Forward, While Others Scheme Ambushes in Reality (1) On the other side. The night was as dark as ink, with only the pale glow of moonlight piercing through the darkness, casting a lattice of shadows on the floor through the unclosed curtains. The door silently opened. A pair of slender legs, wrapped in dark green stockings, stepped onto the carpet without making a sound. Shia slept soundly on the bed, undisturbed by the subtle movements. The blanket swelled slightly as a small figure crawled from the foot of the bed to the head. A silvery head emerged from beneath the covers. Her youthful face, with a hint of baby fat, was sweet and endearingly delicate. The silver hair seemed to merge with the moonlight, giving her a cold and ethereal beauty. Her large, round eyes scrutinized Shia with a serious, almost probing gaze. She reached out and traced Shia''s features with her fingertips. This guy¡ truly unpredictable. Though his thoughts were complex, his gentleness toward her was undeniable. Sharing a single body, Nia¡¯s abilities were naturally hers as well. She could feel his sincerity, even tinged with faint pity. But why? They hadn¡¯t known each other before. Humans were so despicable. So why was he so kind to her? To the point where she couldn¡¯t bring herself to harm him? She couldn¡¯t figure it out. Shaking her head, she pushed aside those tangled emotions. Even if she couldn¡¯t understand, she couldn¡¯t help but be drawn to him. His presence was comforting, warm, and safe.This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. Unfamiliar with such genuine tenderness, she couldn¡¯t resist leaning closer. Her hand slid down, brushing Shia¡¯s chin, as she nestled even closer. Her small face pressed against his neck, listening to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat, which reassured her. Her soft hands rested on his neck, her voice barely a whisper. "If I hear anything unpleasant, I¡¯ll kill you~!" Lifting her head, she gazed at his face, a sweet smile blooming. Her translucent, porcelain-like skin added an unsettling beauty to her expression. Her nose brushed against his, her eyes lingering on his delicate features with a flutter of excitement. Yet her hands, tracing across his neck, mimicked the motion of a blade, as if testing for the best angle to strike. For a moment, it seemed the boy¡¯s life would end in an instant. Instead, she chuckled. Her palm rested on his chest as she burrowed deeper into his embrace. The steady heartbeat soothed her as her silver hair shimmered under the moonlight. This warmth¡ she couldn¡¯t resist craving it. Unknowingly, as she nestled in, Shia ceded her control to Nia¡¯s unconscious influence once more. Some were still dreaming, while others were already daringly taking action. --- Morning. The cheerful chirping of birds outside was muffled by a magical barrier, leaving the room in serene silence. Rong opened her eyes. The faint morning light illuminated the room enough for her to discern its furnishings. Her body felt warm and soft, a comfort she couldn¡¯t quite explain. Wait! This feeling¡ Suddenly, she recalled the dream from the previous night. In her dream, Shia had been so gentle, so considerate, promising to never leave her side. And yet, she had¡ done that to him? If it were merely an unconscious dream, perhaps she wouldn¡¯t feel so distressed. But the dream had been her own creation, woven with the Illusory Mirror technique! Even with no one around, her cheeks burned with shame, her timid expression filled with mortification. How could she do such a thing? Shia was her dear friend, yet she had betrayed that friendship in spirit! While he treated her as a friend, she¡ Overwhelmed by guilt, Rong sat up in bed, burying her face in her hands, like an ostrich hiding in the sand. Hugging her knees, she silently berated herself. What she had done was unacceptable. Even if Shia didn¡¯t know, her own conscience wouldn¡¯t allow her to move past it. She needed to make amends. Otherwise, her shame would never fade. Five minutes later, Rong had finished washing up. Clad in a maid¡¯s outfit, she carried a basin and towel to Shia¡¯s door. Taking a deep breath, she prepared to knock. Shia had kindly taken her in and given her a job. She needed to honor her responsibilities as a maid. Most importantly, she needed to atone for the audacity of her dream. "Knock, knock, knock." Her knocks were rhythmic, loud enough to wake the occupant but not disruptive. Rong rubbed her face, practicing the smile she¡¯d rehearsed in the mirror for four minutes. A maid¡¯s demeanor should be professional and focused. But her smile froze in the next instant. Something felt off. Frowning, she pressed her ear to the door, straining to hear. But now there was only silence, as if the earlier sound had been her imagination. Just moments ago, she thought she¡¯d heard¡ a girl¡¯s soft murmur? But how could there be a girl in Shia¡¯s room? It must have been a mistake. Surely it was impossible. Yes, she had to be mistaken. There was no way. Her face grew stiff, her body tense. It had to be her imagination. Taking a deep breath, she tried to dispel the foreboding feeling weighing her heart. ¡°Master, I¡¯m coming in~!¡± She raised her voice and, steeling herself, pushed open the door. What she saw left her frozen in place, unable to believe her eyes. The spacious room. The large bed. Two figures lay entwined on it. One with snow-white skin and long, pointed elf ears. Her ankle-length hair spilled over half the bed. Her slender, pale arm covered her eyes as her brows knitted slightly. Her pouting lips muttered incoherently, her displeasure at being disturbed evident. She lay atop someone¡ The intimate posture shattered Rong¡¯s heart. Her entire being seemed to crumble into a gray, lifeless statue. The sound she¡¯d heard earlier¡ had been real? Shia¡¯s room really had a girl inside! And their posture was so¡ The socially anxious princess, who had been repenting for defiling their pure friendship, was utterly wrecked! The sound of the door opening startled Nia awake. Her eyes cracked open slightly, as though unaccustomed to the light. Upon seeing the figure standing at the doorway, she lazily greeted her. chapter 87: Some Princesses Dream of Charging Forward, While Others Scheme Ambushes in Reality (2) chapter 87: Some Princesses Dream of Charging Forward, While Others Scheme Ambushes in Reality (2) ¡°Morning, little acrobat kitten.¡± She climbed off Shia¡¯s body, stretching her arms straight as she yawned. Her golden hair cascaded down her back, barely covering the spring scenery of the morning. She was wearing almost nothing. Her proud, voluptuous figure was on full display. Faced with the sight of those breathtaking curves, Rong¡¯s little heart trembled. She felt a pang of fear. Once again, the flat-chested princess suffered a crushing blow. Rong collapsed in tears in the corner. She had always known the gap was vast, but she hadn¡¯t expected it to be this vast! Being forced to face the disparity so clearly left her utterly defeated. She thought to herself, ¡°There¡¯s nothing I can do.¡± Shia, still half-asleep, felt something moving against him. It wasn¡¯t uncomfortable, just strange. He only knew he had slept soundly last night. Both his body and mind had been deeply relaxed. In his dreams, a succubus had clung to him sweetly, and he held a soft, self-regulating pillow in his arms. The royal elf princess pillow¡ªa luxury worth having! When he opened his eyes, however, the face he saw was youthful, gentle, and dignified. Shia blinked and felt the weight pressing against him. Nia, noticing his confusion, looked down to meet his dazed gaze. Her face lit up with a graceful smile. ¡°Morning, Shia.¡± Her greeting was smooth and natural, as though she didn¡¯t realize how inappropriate the scene was. ¡ªWhy would it be inappropriate?Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings. She had slept well last night. Shia glanced at Nia and then stiffly turned his head toward the doorway, where the gray, lifeless statue of Rong stood. His mind raced. What kind of drama is this?! ¡°Clang!¡± The moment Shia¡¯s gaze met hers, Rong¡¯s hands trembled, and the basin she held fell to the ground. She instinctively took two steps back, her eyes wide with shock and tears welling up. ¡°You¡ you two¡¡± She couldn¡¯t even finish her sentence. Nia, unbothered, looked down at her attire and then at Shia beneath her. She remained calm. ¡°Let me explain. It¡¯s not what you think.¡± If it¡¯s not that, then what is it? She had seen it with her own eyes! ¡°Nothing happened last night. I just wanted to thank Shia for taking me in, so I used some special elven incense to help him sleep better.¡± Yes, she had done nothing. After all, the first half of the night had been under Little Nia¡¯s control. She was the one who had crawled into Shia¡¯s bed. That had nothing to do with Nia herself. Although she had woken up later and found it comfortable, she hadn¡¯t bothered to move. So, it wasn¡¯t her problem. She and Shia were perfectly innocent. Shia nodded in agreement. ¡°I slept really well last night. Not a single disturbance.¡± And Rong believed them. A gentle and elegant elf like Nia didn¡¯t seem like someone who would lie. Besides, Rong didn¡¯t want to believe there was anything improper between them. ¡°Why are you here so early?¡± Shia asked, rubbing his temples. ¡°I¡ I came to help you wash up and get ready,¡± Rong thought. But that wasn¡¯t something she could just say, especially with an outsider present. Rong sneaked a glance at Nia, whose serene expression suggested she had overheard everything. Nia: ¡ Alright, I¡¯ll take my leave. Nia sat on the bed, spacing out for a moment before ruffling her hair, turning her golden locks into a mess. Then she stepped onto the carpet. Rong moved aside to let her pass, watching her retreating figure with relief. At least the awkward tension had eased. Rong began tidying Shia¡¯s bed. The lingering scent of Shia mingled with a faint feminine fragrance, but there was nothing else. Completely reassured, she set off to prepare breakfast. Yet, the morning¡¯s events replayed in her mind. The image of the youthful but busty elf lounging on Shia¡¯s body, greeting her so naturally¡ ¡°Morning.¡± Those simple words haunted Rong like a nightmare. A teasing whisper echoed in her mind: ¡°Rong, you need to act fast, or he¡¯ll be taken from you~!¡± The elf princess¡¯s playful tone lingered, stoking Rong¡¯s inner fire. Change what? Taken by whom? Startled, Rong turned to find Nia¡¯s stunning face inches away. Her flawless, snow-white skin and light green eyes brimmed with life. Her faint smile seemed innocent, but it left Rong breathless and flustered. She instinctively stepped back, uneasy with their close proximity. ¡°W-what do you mean?¡± Nia¡¯s smile deepened, warm and elegant, as she playfully winked and exited the kitchen. ¡°Shia, breakfast isn¡¯t ready yet. Just wait a bit longer.¡± Watching Nia¡¯s retreating figure, Rong felt her heart race uncontrollably. She clutched her chest, trying to steady herself. Did Rong truly not understand Nia¡¯s words? Probably not. Shia was her most important¡ªher only¡ªfriend. If someone took him away¡ she couldn¡¯t bear the thought. Her grip on the kitchen utensils tightened as determination filled her eyes. The elf princess¡¯s teasing had awakened the demon princess¡¯s resolve. In a house shared by three individuals of different races, their bonds grew tighter, entangling their fates further. Rong¡¯s eyes shone with newfound resolve. It seemed she truly needed to shed her socially anxious, shadowed persona. But another doubt surfaced in her mind. She glanced at Nia, who was leaning against the kitchen door, observing her with an amused smile. Rong hesitated to voice her question. How did Nia know? She had hidden it so well. Chapter 88: Some Princesses Dream of Charging Forward, While Others Scheme Ambushes in Reality (3) Chapter 88: Some Princesses Dream of Charging Forward, While Others Scheme Ambushes in Reality (3) Nia winked, bringing a finger to her lips in a gesture of secrecy before mouthing a silent reply: ¡°It¡¯s a secret~!¡± Together, they carried the prepared breakfast to the dining room and took their seats. Shia, reading a newspaper, casually glanced up before grabbing a cornmeal pancake to eat. The atmosphere was relaxed and lighthearted. The socially anxious princess masked her feelings well, showing no outward signs of her turmoil. But just as the calm settled, an uninvited guest arrived. ¡°Shia, come out. I know you¡¯re home!¡± Shia¡¯s brow twitched. Was the next line going to be, ¡°Don¡¯t hide in there and stay silent¡±? But there was no next line. The door burst open, and Shia stood there, his hand gripping the doorknob tightly. ¡°What is it?¡± Clearly, there was no intention of letting her in. Lilith, however, had no plans to wait. She barged straight in. She was here to confront Shia and demand answers about his whereabouts last night. They¡¯d agreed to work together, and she had scoured the underground auction house inside and out but hadn¡¯t found a trace of him. Of course, his presence wasn¡¯t the real issue. What mattered was the task she¡¯d entrusted to him¡ªwhere was her elf? Before Shia could reply, her anger was momentarily halted. Closing her eyes, she sniffed the air delicately. Her dainty nose twitched as she caught a faint, lingering fragrance in the villa. Shia watched her curiously. ¡°What are you doing?¡± ¡°Shh.¡± Lilith gestured for silence, continuing to sniff around. ¡°Don¡¯t speak. I smell¡ a beautiful lady¡¯s scent.¡± The sweetness and warmth in the air made her certain it belonged to an extraordinary beauty.If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. Shia¡¯s expression turned blank as he watched her revel in the moment. This innate talent¡ she¡¯d make a great dog. Such a waste otherwise. Following the scent, Lilith pushed past Shia and stormed further into the villa. Her eyes immediately landed on the elven princess casually dining at the table. Her heart skipped a beat. Instantly, Lilith was smitten. Long golden hair that cascaded to her ankles, iconic elven ears, a youthful face paired with an impossibly voluptuous figure, and a serene, elegant demeanor¡ªthe elven princess was breathtaking. Lilith was utterly captivated. This must be the elf Shia rescued from the auction! She was perfect¡ªan unparalleled beauty. A victim deceived and trapped by villains, deserving of rescue. Her resolve was instant: I, Lilith, must save her! She sat down next to Nia, her gaze never leaving her. ¡°Hello, I¡¯m Lilith. You must be the poor elf I instructed Shia to save from the underground auction?¡± Her smile was gentle and caring as she edged closer, attempting to take credit for Shia¡¯s actions. However, her opportunism didn¡¯t go unnoticed. The personality lurking within Nia¡ªLittle Nia¡ªfound Lilith utterly repulsive. How dare this filthy human approach her? Without hesitation, Little Nia took control of Nia¡¯s body and raised an arm. ¡°Bang!¡± A fist struck Lilith square in the chest. The close range left her no room to dodge, and her face contorted from the impact. Turning back, she was met with Nia¡¯s apologetic expression. ¡°Are you okay? I didn¡¯t mean to do that.¡± Though Nia¡¯s words carried sincerity, her actions said otherwise. Just as Lilith was about to dismiss it with a smile, another punch landed¡ªthis time on her ample chest, even harder than the first. ¡°Ah~!¡± Lilith¡¯s scream echoed as pain coursed through her. Despite her words of apology, Nia¡¯s hand showed no mercy, controlled by Little Nia¡¯s overwhelming disdain. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry! I really didn¡¯t mean it,¡± Nia¡¯s voice was soft and remorseful, like a guilty child who¡¯d made a mistake. But her punches only grew fiercer. Little Nia was merciless. ¡°How dare this human make Nia apologize?¡± she thought. ¡°I¡¯ll beat you senseless!¡± Meanwhile, Nia¡¯s apologetic demeanor remained as she continued her one-sided assault. Her gentle fa?ade contrasted starkly with the brutal reality, leaving Lilith in a state of stunned disbelief. Watching from the side, Rong¡¯s eyes widened in shock. She instinctively leaned back, nearly toppling off her chair if Shia hadn¡¯t caught her in time. ¡°Is this elf always this violent? So terrifying. If she hit me like that, I wouldn¡¯t stand a chance.¡± Shaking slightly, Rong resolved to try harder. Otherwise, Nia might steal Shia from her. The enemy was formidable, and she needed to improve. Lilith forced a smile, attempting to save face. ¡°It¡¯s fine¡ being bullied by a beautiful lady is a blessing in itself.¡± Nia, holding a handkerchief, feigned concern. ¡°But you¡¯re bleeding.¡± Lilith wiped away the blood trickling from her nose, grinning brightly. ¡°It¡¯s just a little injury. I can take it.¡± As Nia leaned in to clean her wounds, Lilith¡¯s smile grew wider. She¡¯s taking care of me! The future looked promising. Meanwhile, Rong covered her mouth, unable to hold back a sigh. ¡°Happy to be beaten? What kind of freak is she?¡± she muttered, deciding to keep her distance from this golden-haired upperclassman. In truth, Lilith knew more about Nia¡¯s background than she let on. Only someone of Nia¡¯s caliber could inspire such admiration. Nia was a third-year student at Seven Shields Academy, and her identity was far from ordinary¡ªthe princess of the elven race! Despite her petite, adorable appearance that evoked a strong protective instinct, Nia¡¯s combat abilities were unparalleled. As a powerful upperclassman with a regal aura, she was irresistible. To Lilith, being struck by someone like Nia was an honor worth cherishing. However, Nia¡¯s charm was complicated by her contradictions. Though approachable on the surface, her inner persona harbored deep resistance to strangers, especially those of other races. She viewed them with suspicion and mistrust, often assuming the worst intentions. Adding to her mystique, Nia possessed a rare ability: mind reading. Chapter 89: The Endless Uses of an Imperial Slave Princess, and the Loyal Dog Knight’s Fierce Onslau Chapter 89: The Endless Uses of an Imperial Slave Princess, and the Loyal Dog Knight¡¯s Fierce Onslaught (1) Being able to hear other people¡¯s inner thoughts is a double-edged sword. For anyone approaching with impure intentions, their hidden motives were as clear as day to her. The more she understood the nature of human hearts, the more she felt repelled by them. However, Lilith was unaware of all this. At this moment, as she gazed at the slightly bent figure of Nia, who was gently wiping the blood from her, Lilith¡¯s heart raced uncontrollably. To have such close contact with this exquisite being was already a blessing. Getting hit? That didn¡¯t matter. As long as Nia liked it, she¡¯d work hard to become more durable! As long as she could endure it, everything would be fine. But this was just Lilith¡¯s wishful thinking. Although Lilith didn¡¯t know Nia in depth, she wasn¡¯t entirely ignorant about her either. For instance, she¡¯d long heard that this elven princess despised evil and was filled with a strong sense of justice. The auction held within Seven Shields Academy wasn¡¯t exactly a secret, and Lilith had learned that there was a high probability Nia would infiltrate it. This bit of information was why Lilith had tasked Shia with trying her luck. Forming a connection with Nia would be ideal. Even if she couldn¡¯t, getting her hands on an elven slave would still be worth celebrating. And now, reality proved she had guessed right. Nia had indeed gone. Lilith regretted it a little. If she¡¯d known earlier, she¡¯d have disguised herself and gone personally. That way, Nia might¡¯ve been even more grateful to her. But there was still a chance to make up for it! Reluctantly tearing her gaze away from Nia¡¯s delicate face, Lilith¡¯s eyes drifted downward. Her gaze settled on the black collar adorning the elf¡¯s slender neck, contrasting sharply with her snowy white skin. It looked pitiful. ¡°Shia, I told you to rescue her, but how could you treat her as a slave?¡± Lilith shot Shia a reproachful glance, her voice tinged with disapproval and disdain. She then turned to Nia, her eyes brimming with sympathy and concern.Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings. ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid; I¡¯ll remove this shackle for you right now.¡± This was Nia, after all. How could she be treated like this? Lilith¡¯s criticism of Shia was genuine. Allowing such a gem of a girl to suffer such humiliation was a disgrace to her teachings. Yet, this also presented an opportunity for Lilith to shine. But just as her hand touched the collar on Nia¡¯s neck, Nia suddenly stood and retreated several steps, her face full of wariness. Lilith was momentarily dumbfounded by this sudden change. The next moment, Nia threw herself into Shia¡¯s arms. The petite girl, blessed with an impressive chest for her stature, pressed herself tightly against the boy, her softness reshaping under the pressure. Her wary and tense gaze fell on Lilith. ¡°What are you doing? Are you trying to separate us?¡± Lilith stared at where their bodies were touching, her heart brimming with envy. If only she were the one being hugged like that! But she was utterly stunned by Nia¡¯s words. Nia¡¯s declaration hadn¡¯t ended yet. ¡°He¡¯s the one who saved me from those bad people and promised to set me free. When he learned I had nowhere to go, he took me in.¡± Her voice grew softer, but her devotion was evident. ¡°He¡¯s been so kind to me. Of course, I want to repay him.¡± ¡°I¡¯m not someone who becomes a slave easily, you know~. A life-saving debt can only be repaid with my body. I¡¯ll serve him with all my heart.¡± This declaration of loyalty struck Lilith like lightning. Watching this open display of affection felt like torture, especially as Shia was technically her fianc¨¦. Lilith was disoriented, staring at Nia¡¯s pure and innocent face, which showed genuine sincerity. Her lips parted slightly, her eyes wide in disbelief. She was utterly at a loss. What was she hearing? She understood each word, but strung together, they made no sense. Before she could recover, Nia acted again. Turning her gaze full of admiration towards Shia, her voice became sweet and gentle, carrying a girl¡¯s tender hope. ¡°Master~!¡± This single word struck both Lilith and Rong simultaneously. Rong couldn¡¯t help but look over in disbelief. Was Nia vying for her spot? Lilith took an involuntary step back, her regret consuming her. She felt like crying. It was her idea, and she even paid for it, so why had Shia ended up benefiting? Watching the peach she¡¯d nurtured fall into someone else¡¯s hands was heartbreaking. Lilith comforted herself: Shia was her fianc¨¦, so what¡¯s his is hers¡ right? Nia was Shia¡¯s slave. Shia was her devoted admirer. By that logic, Nia belonged to her too. After looping this thought three times, Lilith finally regained her confidence. Although things hadn¡¯t gone entirely as planned, as long as she kept Shia firmly in her grasp, what difference did it make? Her confidence in managing Shia remained unwavering. Observing Nia with satisfaction, Lilith thought, ¡°Soon, she¡¯ll be mine.¡± However, outwardly, she maintained a gracious smile. ¡°What a grateful elf.¡± You should be grateful to me! ¡°Since you¡¯re so sincere, I¡¯ll accept you on Shia¡¯s behalf.¡± So wouldn¡¯t it be better to follow me directly? ¡°Don¡¯t worry. If he ever dares mistreat you, tell me, and I¡¯ll make it right.¡± This way, she¡¯d have an excuse to bring Nia to her side. But Nia only clung tighter to Shia, nestling against him like a delicate bird. Leaning close to his ear, she whispered softly. ¡°Do you enjoy this game, Master?¡± Her voice was sultry and playful, like a nightingale¡¯s song, intoxicating yet aware of its allure. It was a stark contrast to her innocent appearance and graceful demeanor, exuding a devilish charm that toyed with human desires. Shia turned slightly to look at her angelic smile. Her ankle-length golden hair added a touch of divinity to her. Indeed, she was a natural deceiver.
A Special Thank You!: I want to extend my deepest gratitude to [XOL], for supporting me on Patreon!Chapter 90: The Endless Uses of an Imperial Slave Princess, and the Loyal Dog Knight’s Fierce Onslau Chapter 90: The Endless Uses of an Imperial Slave Princess, and the Loyal Dog Knight¡¯s Fierce Onslaught (2) Shia sighed inwardly. Though he¡¯d long known her nature, witnessing it firsthand still gave him a slight headache. She¡¯d be challenging to handle. But in the end, she was another card up his sleeve for survival. With a smile directed at Nia but words meant for Lilith, he said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry; I¡¯ll treat her well.¡± His headache and helplessness were real, but so was his promise. The elven princess, wielding power and authority, was undoubtedly a formidable force. Nia¡¯s face maintained a pure smile, her aura a complex blend of celestial and demonic qualities. As she looked at Shia, a flicker of doubt crossed her mind. She could sense Shia¡¯s genuine care and the complicated¡ pity in his heart. Shia, meanwhile, was recalling the fate she would face in the future. His previously relaxed demeanor grew heavy with seriousness. In the game, she had to make a choice. The options seemed driven by the player, but the ending was predetermined: left or right, a binary decision. But now, in the real world, he was free from the constraints of the scripted storyline. He could follow his heart and find a way to have it all. Thus, he rejected the idea of choosing. We¡¯re adults now. Who settles for just one choice? I¡¯ll take everything! --- The wind caught the edges of a billowing cape as the knight in black armor leaped off her steed and strode into the room. The armor clung to her elegant figure, while her dark green hair, tousled by her brisk movement, framed a strikingly beautiful and resolute face. Her sun-kissed skin added a powerful allure to her presence. Her expression was solemn, though a spark of anticipation shone deep within her eyes. When she finally saw the figure she had etched into her mind, the knight¡¯s eyes flickered with emotion: excitement, guilt, and longing.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it. The silver-haired princess paused slightly, sensing something different. Turning around, she saw the green-haired knight kneeling on one knee. ¡°Princess, forgive me. I¡¯m late. I should have been by your side during such an important moment as your enrollment.¡± Aph sincerely apologized. She had known about the princess¡¯s enrollment and should have accompanied her. However, mission obligations had delayed her return. Failing to protect the princess was already a dereliction of her duty as a knight. Violet looked at the figure before her, emotions swirling in her eyes: joy and a trace of grievance, as if silently asking, ¡°Why did you only come now?¡± But when Aph bowed deeply, lowering her proud head to ask for forgiveness, Violet hurriedly stepped forward. She reached out to help Aph up, a touch of reproach in her expression. ¡°Aph, with our bond since childhood, why act so distant?¡± Violet grasped Aph¡¯s arms, lifting her to her feet. ¡°I¡¯ve told you to treat me as a friend.¡± Warmth flickered in Aph¡¯s eyes, and her heart felt soothed. Yet she remained mindful of her position. ¡°Your Highness, as a member of the Royal Guard, it is my duty to maintain my role.¡± While Violet¡¯s grace allowed such familiarity, Aph couldn¡¯t overstep. She was a knight and a guardian of the royal family. The hierarchy between them couldn¡¯t be ignored. Violet sighed inwardly, recognizing Aph¡¯s steadfastness. Yet, seeing her childhood friend, who was like an older sister, made her undeniably happy. Amid her joy, however, memories of being bullied by Shia surfaced, and a wave of grievance welled up inside her. Her eyes stung with unshed tears. Even during her most frustrating moments, she hadn¡¯t felt so aggrieved. Now that Aph was back, like a protective sister and steadfast friend, the contrast only deepened her sense of injustice. Aph¡¯s presence was her unwavering shield and greatest comfort. She thought Aph could help her deal with the rogue who had mistreated her. But just as she opened her mouth, she hesitated. Could she really drag such a pure and loyal friend into this? Could she trust Aph to handle someone as cunning and ruthless as Shia? Violet wavered, uncertain. The thought of exposing Aph to potential harm stopped her. She wanted to confide but also protect her. Yet, with their close bond, concealing her troubles wasn¡¯t so simple. Aph sensed something was amiss almost immediately. ¡°Your Highness, is there something troubling you?¡± Her voice radiated reassurance. ¡°If something is wrong, please tell me. I¡¯ll do everything in my power to fulfill your wishes.¡± Faced with Aph¡¯s earnest gaze, Violet hesitated before murmuring, ¡°It¡¯s nothing much. Just some minor disputes between classmates¡ Nothing serious.¡± She paused, then reluctantly added, ''I¡¯ve been¡ bullied by a classmate.'' Recalling those humiliating experiences made her blush with shame. Yet she left out the worst details, not because she feared Aph knowing but because she didn¡¯t want to burden her. Violet preferred to shield those she cared about. Still, her downcast demeanor betrayed her feelings. Aph¡¯s expression hardened with concern and determination. ¡°Is there anything else?¡± she asked gently but firmly. Violet sighed deeply, her shoulders drooping. ¡°I also lost the glory I should have achieved.¡± The position of top freshman had nearly become an obsession for her. Yet, being outmatched and subsequently humiliated only deepened her frustration. Violet didn¡¯t want Aph to know about her grievances, not wanting to burden her with worry. Yet, even the vague words Violet shared were enough to ignite a sense of injustice in Aph. Her entire being exuded a fierce aura, her determination unwavering as she prepared to act immediately. Seeing Aph grip her sword and prepare to storm out, Violet quickly grabbed her arm. ¡°Where are you going?¡± Aph halted her steps and glanced back at Violet¡¯s hand holding her arm. Her heart softened, but a deep pang of heartache followed. Chapter 91: The Endless Uses of an Imperial Slave Princess, and the Loyal Dog Knight’s Fierce Onslau Chapter 91: The Endless Uses of an Imperial Slave Princess, and the Loyal Dog Knight¡¯s Fierce Onslaught (3) ¡°I¡¯m going to teach that person a lesson and stand up for you,¡± Aph declared firmly, without hesitation. This was the princess she had protected since childhood, never allowing her to face such hardships. Her failure to be by Violet¡¯s side was a lapse in her duty. But more than anything, Aph¡¯s heart ached for her. This was the princess she had cherished and spoiled like a younger sister. However, such feelings had to be suppressed. She was a knight, and Violet was royalty. The line between their roles couldn¡¯t be blurred. ¡°Shouldn¡¯t you ask for the reason first?¡± Violet questioned, genuinely puzzled. Her earlier words had been vague, with no specific mention of who had wronged her. Yet Aph¡¯s resolve was so decisive. Aph¡¯s response was unwavering. ¡°I don¡¯t need to know the reason.¡± She turned, her eyes meeting Violet¡¯s with steadfast determination. It was this gaze, this unyielding Aph, that made her Violet¡¯s strongest support and warmest harbor. ¡°Your words are my command,¡± Aph stated. Whether right or wrong, she would obey unconditionally. It was not merely a matter of knightly duty but an expression of her loyalty to the princess¡ªan absolute devotion. Violet felt a spark of joy at Aph¡¯s words. Having such a devoted knight was undoubtedly a source of happiness. Yet, beneath her joy lay a trace of disappointment. This wasn¡¯t the kind of loyalty she wanted. Their bond, forged through growing up together, transcended the simple relationship of master and servant. Finding Shia wasn¡¯t difficult. As the academy¡¯s freshman top student, he was a prominent figure. Aph¡¯s inquiries quickly revealed his location, including details about his victory over Violet and their peculiar duel. She also learned he resided in the Alinger Villa District. Thus, Shia soon found himself confronted on the road. The green-haired knight with sun-kissed skin, clad in black armor that hugged her curves, stood before him. Her heavy sword pointed directly at him, her intentions clear. This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience. ¡°What brings you here, big sister?¡± Shia asked with feigned ignorance. Aph¡¯s expression was cold and serious. ¡°Shia, you have tarnished the dignity of the Silver Moon royal family. I am here to bring you before the princess to atone for your actions.¡± Her voice was firm, filled with righteous determination. Her aura radiated overwhelming pressure. Shia sighed inwardly. He had expected this. ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid of the academy¡¯s repercussions for acting against me?¡± ¡°I will bear the consequences,¡± Aph replied without hesitation. Her loyalty and commitment to her princess outweighed any potential fallout. Even if it cost her greatly, she was resolute in her decision. Just as Aph was about to strike, the golden-haired elf standing beside Shia intervened. Her green eyes shifted to silver, her golden hair turning the same shade. A dangerous presence enveloped her, her beauty taking on a menacing edge. In a flash, Aph¡¯s instincts kicked in. She redirected her sword to block the elf¡¯s claws. The clash of steel against flesh echoed like a metallic chime. The two exchanged a flurry of blows, their combat mesmerizing in its speed and intensity. On one side was the elven princess; on the other, the Silver Moon Kingdom¡¯s knight. Watching their duel, Shia couldn¡¯t help but marvel. ¡°Is this the privilege of being a kept man?¡± he mused. With influential figures stepping in for him, he hardly needed to lift a finger. Within moments, the battle¡¯s outcome was clear. Despite her exceptional skills, Aph was no match for the elven princess, one of the academy¡¯s most formidable figures. Her heavy sword was knocked away, and she fell to one knee, her armor cracked in several places. The damage revealed glimpses of her toned, curvaceous body beneath, making her vulnerability strikingly poignant. The elf princess stood over her, her silver hair flowing gracefully to her ankles. Her disdain was palpable. ¡°With such meager skills, you dare challenge my master?¡± Her voice dripped with scorn, and her growing killing intent was undeniable. Just as she was about to act, Shia gently grabbed her hand. She turned, her gaze cold and haughty, clearly displeased. Shia simply smiled. ¡°A lady should know when to show restraint.¡± Her icy glare lingered for a few moments before she reluctantly averted her eyes, yielding to his words. Though defiant and wild, she ultimately obeyed him, a stark contrast to her usual merciless demeanor. Her hostility toward Aph, however, didn¡¯t fade. Shia turned his attention to the knight. ¡°Have you considered the consequences of opposing me?¡± Aph¡¯s defiant gaze met his. Though defeated, her spirit remained unbroken. If given another chance, she would make the same choice, driven by her unwavering duty to the princess. Before the tension could escalate further, a commanding voice rang out. ¡°Stop this at once!¡± Aph¡¯s head snapped toward the source, her eyes widening in shock. ¡°Princess?!¡± Violet approached, her expression stern and resolute. ¡°I instructed her to act. She knew nothing of her own accord. If you want someone to blame, blame me.¡± She stepped in front of Shia, meeting his gaze unflinchingly. The elven princess looked at Violet, her fingers itching to strike but restrained. Shia raised an eyebrow, intrigued. ¡°Violet, do you dislike me that much? This is the third time you¡¯ve caused trouble for me.¡± ¡°I want to talk to you alone,¡± Violet replied, her gaze shifting briefly to the elf princess before returning to Shia. ¡°Very well,¡± Shia agreed. He offered the elf a reassuring smile before heading toward a nearby grove. Aph, anxious and worried, called out, ¡°Princess!¡± She moved to follow but was effortlessly restrained by the elf princess. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll be fine,¡± Violet reassured her before following Shia into the forest. Aph could only bite her lip, helpless against her concern, and wait anxiously. Chapter 92: The Power of Sisterhood—It Was All This Princesss Plan! Please Have Mercy on Her Highne Chapter 92: The Power of Sisterhood¡ªIt Was All This Princess''s Plan! Please Have Mercy on Her Highness! (1) Although she left with composure and elegance, the current situation painted a starkly different picture. Shia stared at Violet, utterly speechless. ¡°What kind of trick is this?¡± He hadn¡¯t done anything yet, so why was she acting this way? At the moment, Violet was crouched in the corner, clutching her head with both hands. She looked like a pitiful creature caught red-handed, trying her best to make herself invisible. Her stance screamed ¡°defense mode¡± as if preparing for some terrible punishment. Her poor, helpless expression made it seem like she was about to be bullied by some villain. The issue, however, was that Shia hadn¡¯t done anything yet. As soon as they walked into the small forest, Violet had behaved this way. Seriously, wasn¡¯t she the one who had instigated trouble and actively sought him out? Now she was acting as though he was the villain here. Violet clung to her head without lifting it or saying a word. She simply bit her lip and shut her eyes, ready to endure whatever retribution might come her way. Shia crouched down in front of her, leaning in to see her face. ¡°Hey, wasn¡¯t it you who started this? You sent someone to mess with me, right?¡± Violet slightly raised her head, revealing her teary eyes. Her reaction only fueled Shia¡¯s bluntness. ¡°You¡¯ve already played the villain, so why act so pitiful now?¡± Violet didn¡¯t respond, merely gazing at Shia with a look that could melt hearts. However, her pitiful demeanor didn¡¯t sway him one bit. In fact, he found the contrast amusing. After all, wasn¡¯t this royal princess always exuding confidence? She had a knack for justifying her selfish actions with lofty excuses. Seeing her in such a vulnerable state was an unexpected treat.This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon. But to his surprise, Violet didn¡¯t deny her involvement this time. Instead, she took full responsibility. Finally lifting her head, she pressed her lips together and spoke. ¡°Yes, I don¡¯t like you, so I wanted to humiliate you. Teach you a lesson.¡± Her candid confession left Shia momentarily stunned. ¡°I¡¯m the one who tattled to the senior. I¡¯m also the one who instructed Aph to bully you. She¡¯s just a Silver Moon Royal Guard following orders.¡± She met his gaze unwaveringly. ¡°If you want to settle the score, direct it all at me.¡± Her bold and forthright manner even earned Shia¡¯s grudging admiration. ¡°So, you admit to all these bad deeds. How do you plan to apologize?¡± Shia¡¯s casual tone made Violet¡¯s confusion even more apparent. Her mind was blank, unable to fathom how to respond. ¡°¡I¡¯m sorry?¡± she said hesitantly. Her apology lacked sincerity. Clearly, she needed to show more effort. ¡°That won¡¯t cut it. Show some proper attitude,¡± Shia remarked, shaking his head. The confusion in Violet¡¯s eyes deepened, accompanied by a growing sense of dread. She had chosen to bear the blame and anticipated facing consequences¡ªnothing more than enduring another round of bullying from this scoundrel. She could endure it. ¡°What do you want me to do?¡± she asked cautiously. Shia¡¯s smile widened, an unsettling mix of amusement and malice. He crooked his finger at her, beckoning her closer. Though reluctant, Violet obeyed, moving closer until she could hear his whispered request. Her face immediately turned crimson. This¡ this was outrageous! She instinctively wanted to refuse, but the sly grin on Shia¡¯s face made her hesitate. She realized she had no leverage here. If she wanted to shield Aph, she had no choice but to comply with Shia¡¯s absurd demands. The bustling campus outside the grove continued as usual, filled with students laughing and chatting. However, if one ventured close enough and listened carefully, they might hear a low, trembling voice coming from the forest. ¡°Daddy¡¡± The soft, quivering tone was barely audible, dripping with embarrassment. The stark contrast between the lively campus and the peculiar dynamic unfolding in the grove created an electrifying tension. Shia, his eyes half-closed and a smirk tugging at his lips, seemed to revel in his villainous role. For him, being the bad guy had never been so satisfying. Yet, he wasn¡¯t entirely pleased with Violet¡¯s performance. There was room for improvement. ¡°How can you sound so stiff? Again, with more sweetness.¡± Violet wanted to disappear into the ground. But she had no choice but to follow Shia¡¯s instructions, softening her voice and making it syrupy sweet. Her bashful demeanor was a perfect blend of defiance and submission, a sight Shia found thoroughly entertaining. As his gaze shifted downward, he noticed something new: Violet¡¯s shoes. Today, she wore strappy, sky-blue high-heeled sandals. The delicate silk ribbons wrapped around her legs, crisscrossing before tying into a neat bow at her calves. Shia openly admired her footwear, even offering a compliment. ¡°You¡¯re quite obedient, aren¡¯t you? Taking your daddy¡¯s suggestions is a good habit.¡± Violet reflexively pulled her feet back, but standing made it impossible to fully hide them. Her embarrassment surged anew. ¡°I didn¡¯t wear them because of you!¡± she retorted, her voice tinged with shame. She told herself it was merely a whim¡ªa break from her usual boots. ¡°Sure, sure,¡± Shia said, nodding thoughtfully. ¡°Tsundere, huh? Makes sense.¡± Though understanding, he wasn¡¯t about to let such behavior slide. Reaching out, he gently patted her head. ¡°Honesty is important. I get your stubbornness, but it¡¯s not a good habit.¡± Violet wanted desperately to swat his hand away, but in this situation, resisting wasn¡¯t an option. She couldn¡¯t afford to provoke him further, not when Aph might suffer the consequences. ¡°But don¡¯t worry,¡± Shia continued. ¡°I¡¯m a good daddy. I¡¯ll make sure my daughter learns to be a truthful, obedient child.¡± A sinking feeling settled in Violet¡¯s chest. This couldn¡¯t mean what she thought it meant¡
A Special Thank You!: I want to extend my deepest gratitude to [Entomancer AND Shoelace], for supporting me on Patreon !Chapter 93: The Power of Sisterhood—It Was All This Princesss Plan! Please Have Mercy on Her Highne Chapter 93: The Power of Sisterhood¡ªIt Was All This Princess''s Plan! Please Have Mercy on Her Highness! (2) Shia¡¯s actions left no room for doubt. His intentions were clear, and Violet¡¯s frustration reached a boiling point. Biting her lip, her eyes reddened as humiliation and helplessness overwhelmed her. How could anyone be so detestable? Even as her indignation surged, she could only grit her teeth and endure. Responsibility¡ªa rare concept for Violet¡ªcompelled her to bear the brunt of Shia¡¯s antics. Deep down, she knew why she tolerated this. It wasn¡¯t just guilt; it was a desire to protect someone dear to her. When Aph had stepped in to act, Violet couldn¡¯t help but feel a flicker of hope. Aph was formidable. Perhaps she could pull it off? Despite her outward composure, worry gnawed at her heart. That was why she quietly followed behind her. What she witnessed next only deepened her concern: Aph being bullied by that silver-haired elf. To Violet, Aph wasn¡¯t just a bodyguard. She was a dear friend, an elder sister, and her closest confidante. Having endured bullying herself, she was all too aware of Shia¡¯s terrifying nature. The thought of her cherished friend suffering the same fate drove Violet to shoulder all the blame. She even confessed to tattling, a charge she had always denied in the past. Shia, naturally, saw right through her motives. The self-serving, status-obsessed Silver Moon princess willingly sacrificing herself for a friend? It was a surprising and oddly admirable gesture. Such heartfelt loyalty was moving, even to him. How could Shia not indulge her efforts? Especially when she¡¯d gone to such lengths. Their profound bond of sisterhood was nothing short of touching¡ªa beautiful display of camaraderie. Though, Aph¡¯s retreating figure was a tad pathetic as she was ushered away. Aph circled the small clearing several times, constrained by a three-meter-wide ring drawn on the ground¡ªa literal cage.Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon. Nearby, the silver-haired elf princess stood watch, her piercing gaze ensuring no escape attempts. At last, Violet returned, her elegant demeanor as poised as ever. Aph¡¯s eyes lit up with relief as she anxiously scanned Violet from head to toe. Violet, her head held high, maintained her icy and regal facade. But when she turned to Aph, her expression softened into a genuine smile. First, she addressed the elf. ¡°I¡¯ve discussed matters with Shia. This incident ends here.¡± She motioned for Aph to leave with her. The elf hesitated but stepped aside after Shia¡¯s subtle nod. ¡°Your Highness, did he make things difficult for you?¡± Aph¡¯s worried gaze scrutinized Violet, her concern palpable. Violet took Aph¡¯s hand, gently leading her away. ¡°Relax. We merely cleared up some misunderstandings. Everything¡¯s resolved now.¡± Aph¡¯s sharp eyes detected no injuries on Violet, and her explanation, while vague, eased her worries slightly. ¡°Really?¡± Aph pressed. Violet¡¯s proud smile returned. ¡°Of course. When I step in, nothing is impossible.¡± Only then did Aph let out a long sigh of relief, her doubts finally put to rest. ¡°Enough of that. You¡¯re back now, so let me properly welcome you.¡± By ¡°welcome,¡± Aph meant an actual cleaning ritual. Her dusky complexion tinged with pink as she awkwardly shuffled her feet. ¡°Your Highness, I can manage on my own.¡± The prospect of bathing with the princess left her flustered and overwhelmed. She was just a knight, after all. Sharing such an intimate moment with royalty felt far too indulgent. But Violet wasn¡¯t about to let her off so easily. Grabbing a towel, she issued a direct command. ¡°Turn around. I¡¯ll help you wash.¡± Aph¡¯s hesitation was palpable. ¡°Your Highness, I really can¡¯t¡¡± ¡°That¡¯s an order.¡± Left with no choice, Aph reluctantly obeyed. Compared to Violet¡¯s fair, flawless skin, Aph¡¯s sun-kissed complexion gleamed with health but bore the marks of a hard life. Scars of varying sizes crisscrossed her body, each a testament to her battles. Violet¡¯s delicate fingers traced one of the scars, her expression full of pain. ¡°Does it still hurt?¡± Aph tilted her head slightly, giving a small, honest shake. Her eyes caught sight of Violet¡¯s hand resting on her shoulder¡ªslender, pale, and beautifully manicured. Compared to her own rough and scarred skin, she felt a pang of insecurity. But the most striking sight wasn¡¯t her scars; it was the scene revealed after she removed her armor. The breathtaking view beneath it left Violet momentarily awestruck. After finishing Aph¡¯s back, Violet gestured for her to turn around. The simple act of turning caused an almost theatrical ripple. Waves formed in the bath, with Aph¡¯s ample assets floating and moving in tandem, commanding attention. Violet couldn¡¯t help but feel a twinge of self-consciousness. Though she wasn¡¯t lacking in that department, standing next to Aph made her feel downright modest. Curious, she reached out to touch, marveling at the softness. Aph, meanwhile, was mortified, her complexion darkening by the second. ¡°Your Highness, being big isn¡¯t all that great,¡± she mumbled, her voice barely audible. ¡°It¡¯s a hindrance in battle.¡± Aph turned her head slightly, her tone sincere. ¡°That¡¯s why I wear thick armor to flatten them. Otherwise, they get in the way during combat.¡± Violet¡¯s jealousy deepened. ¡°Are you bragging?¡± ¡°No, Your Highness, I¡¯m being honest.¡± Her attempt at earnestness only added fuel to the fire. Violet pouted. ¡°That¡¯s just Versailles talk. You have no idea how many people wish for your kind of ¡®troubles.¡¯¡± Their lighthearted banter gradually erased the earlier tension from their encounter with Shia. The atmosphere grew warm and relaxed as they laughed and teased each other. Casually, Aph broached the topic again. ¡°So, what do you plan to do about Shia?¡± Violet¡¯s body stiffened slightly, her unease evident. Though her face remained calm and composed, a subtle storm brewed beneath her expression. ¡°Didn¡¯t I say so? I¡¯ve already discussed this with him, and we¡¯ve come to an understanding. Let¡¯s leave it at that.¡± ¡°Hmm, I¡¯ll trust your judgment,¡± Aph replied. They exchanged a knowing smile, as if the issue had been resolved. Yet, each harbored different thoughts. Chapter 94: The Power of Sisterhood—It Was All This Princesss Plan! Please Have Mercy on Her Highne Chapter 94: The Power of Sisterhood¡ªIt Was All This Princess''s Plan! Please Have Mercy on Her Highness! (3) Violet genuinely hoped to avoid further conflict with Shia. Before Aph¡¯s return, she had held onto a sliver of hope that her knight could take charge and protect her. But after today¡¯s attempt ended in another predictable outcome, resignation gnawed at her resolve. Still, surrender left a bitter taste. Open confrontation was no longer an option; it only positioned her at a disadvantage. For now, she decided to observe her adversary. A moment¡¯s patience could unveil a fatal flaw, allowing her to strike decisively. Rushing in blindly, as she had before, only invited repeated humiliation. Each misstep was a harsh reminder of her folly. Persistence without strategy was not courage; it was foolishness. Her first step now? Lying low. Biding her time, she would study her opponent and wait for the right moment to strike. Until then, any premature actions would only worsen her plight. Without realizing it, the proud Silver Moon princess had learned the art of restraint. Unbeknownst to Violet, Aph also nurtured private concerns. As a royal guard trained from childhood, she had stood faithfully by Violet¡¯s side for years. Beyond loyalty, their bond was forged through shared time and trust. Her duty as a knight dictated that Violet¡¯s dignity be preserved at all costs. Yet now, Violet had shielded her from disgrace, taking on the burden herself. This act of self-sacrifice only deepened Aph¡¯s guilt. Though Violet claimed reconciliation, Aph¡¯s defeat left little room for doubt: her princess must have made some painful concession to settle the matter. Aph¡¯s loyalty stemmed from pure devotion, not na?vet¨¦. There were things she could¡ªand must¡ªhandle herself.Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings. Her warm smile softened as she spoke, her voice carrying a subtle mischief. ¡°Your Highness, someone as noble as you shouldn¡¯t lower yourself for me. Allow me to assist you instead.¡± Her smile turned playful. ¡°Unless you think my hands, accustomed to swords and shields, are too rough for your service?¡± Violet cast a mock glare at her before turning away. ¡°Since when did we become so formal with each other?¡± But Violet¡¯s thoughts were interrupted when Aph, without her knowledge, sought out Shia alone. At that moment, Shia sat leisurely under the sun, his hat tilted to shield his face from the light. A shadow suddenly blocked the sunlight, drawing his attention. Moving his hat aside, he saw Aph standing before him. The golden sunlight highlighted her tanned skin, giving her an almost divine glow. Shia sat up, arching an eyebrow at the knight¡¯s unexpected visit. ¡°What brings you here?¡± ¡°I wish to speak with you privately.¡± ¡°Very well.¡± Their agreement was quickly reached. Meanwhile, a certain succubus princess fidgeted nearby, her nerves frayed. As Shia prepared to leave with Aph, the princess finally broke, grabbing his sleeve with a panicked expression. Shia gently patted her hand, his tone soothing. ¡°We¡¯re just going to talk. You don¡¯t need to worry. If you¡¯re uncomfortable around others, stay here and try mingling.¡± Confident he had covered all possibilities, Shia left, unaware of her true concern. The princess¡¯s anxiety wasn¡¯t over potential harm from Aph but rather the possibility of losing her ¡°ally¡± to yet another woman. Her gaze followed them¡ªthe dignified knight and the effortlessly charismatic boy¡ªher frustration mounting as their figures disappeared. Left alone, her helplessness stemmed from her shyness, preventing her from voicing her feelings. On their walk, the contrast between them was striking. Shia¡¯s laid-back charm complemented Aph¡¯s poised and elegant demeanor. Her form-fitting armor emphasized her curves, exuding a mix of grace and strength that turned heads wherever they went. Crossing into Shia¡¯s villa, they entered the sitting room, where Shia casually took a seat on the sofa. ¡°Alright, what did you want to discuss?¡± he asked, leaning back comfortably. In response, Aph dropped to her knees with a soft thud. Her bow brought her low, her graceful curves accentuated as she assumed a position of complete submission. The scene was both unexpected and captivating. Shia¡¯s curiosity was piqued. ¡°Shia, I understand there¡¯s been discord between you and Her Highness. For every mistake she¡¯s made, I take full responsibility. Whatever punishment you deem fit, I¡¯ll bear it. I only ask that you leave her out of it.¡± Her voice, though steady, carried humility and earnestness, underscoring her dedication. Shia leaned forward, his interest deepening. The shift from her previous defiance to this humility was striking, and her loyalty to Violet was unquestionable. ¡°Aph, I think you¡¯ve misunderstood me,¡± Shia said, his tone calm but firm. ¡°Everything I¡¯ve done has been for Her Highness¡¯s own good.¡± Aph raised her head slightly, her confusion evident. Though Violet had never explicitly said so, Aph knew her princess had suffered under Shia¡¯s hand. Shia smiled knowingly. ¡°Do you think my actions were purely out of malice? On the contrary, they were to temper her.¡± ¡°Violet is destined for greatness as a ruler, but greatness requires more than strength or intellect. It demands wisdom, compassion, and resilience¡ªqualities born from hardship. Without understanding the struggles of her people, she risks becoming blind to their needs.¡± Chapter 95: an Irresistible Offer Chapter 95: an Irresistible Offer "I''m helping her quickly grow into a qualified queen!" "Only through trials can one truly grow!" Aph was shaken to her core. The words reverberated within her, leaving her utterly stunned. Even though Shia was clearly manipulating her emotions, his words struck a chord deep in Aph''s heart. She thought of Violet''s transformation. If it had been the old Violet, she would have acted without hesitation, eliminating someone as disrespectful to the royal family as Shia. But¡ She recalled what Violet had said in the bath yesterday. Though unspoken, Violet now understood the need for patience and restraint. This change was something the old princess could never have embodied. Aph, though merely a member of the royal guard, had been by Violet''s side for years, witnessing her aunt''s governance and gradually grasping certain truths. Her world blurred as memories of the Silver Moon Queen''s regal figure and wisdom surged forward. Then, her vision slowly cleared. Shia was sitting on the sofa, gazing at her with unguarded sincerity. In that moment, her perception of him began to shift. Whether his intentions were genuine or deceitful, whether he was bullying the princess or truly helping her, the changes in Violet were undeniable. In Shia¡¯s calm and confident gaze, Aph saw something that unsettled her¡ªan undeniable spark of intrigue. He smiled and extended his hand toward her. "Interested in helping me train your princess into a true queen?" Aph''s eyes dropped to his outstretched hand, lingering there as uncertainty clouded her thoughts. The prospect of collaborating on his plan left her both intrigued and hesitant. Shia¡¯s voice continued, smooth and persuasive, like the enticing call of an angel.This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon. "I understand the Silver Moon Kingdom faces both internal and external threats." "Watching your beloved princess worry over these crises, watching your cherished homeland near collapse¡ªyou want to do something, don¡¯t you?" "Don¡¯t you wish to save your kingdom from ruin in your own way?" Of course, she wanted to! How could she not? Everything Violet was doing now was for the kingdom¡¯s salvation. Although Aph was proud of Violet¡¯s efforts, seeing her struggle so much pained her deeply. If Aph could help her in any way, she would eagerly seize the opportunity. After all, the Silver Moon Kingdom was her homeland too¡ªa place filled with her family and friends. Even the lowliest maid in the palace harbored affection for this land. She loved it deeply, with all her heart. Even though the Silver Moon Kingdom was a small, fringe nation overshadowed by larger, more powerful ones, it was her home. Aph''s heartbeat quickened, thudding louder and heavier with every moment. Her emotions surged uncontrollably. Her body grew hot, a wave of heat rushing through her as she wrestled with her decision. She was on the verge of accepting his invitation. Shia¡¯s words were like a spell, drawing her in further. Her fingers twitched slightly, almost reaching toward his hand. Yes, she would help mold the princess into a queen. She would save her homeland in her own way. Shia¡¯s voice echoed in her ears, breaking down her final shred of resistance. Aph¡¯s rationality wavered as she seriously contemplated the feasibility of working with Shia. After the initial rush of emotion, this line of reasoning allowed her to somewhat restrain herself. Training the princess, ensuring her readiness for the throne¡ªespecially when progress was already evident¡ªseemed wholly beneficial. Moreover, even if she didn¡¯t intervene, Shia would likely proceed with his so-called training plan for Violet. If she wasn¡¯t part of the process, who knew what over-the-top methods he might use? But if she were involved, she could act as a monitor, ensuring things didn¡¯t spiral out of control. "Alright, I agree." Aph placed her hand in Shia¡¯s. As their gazes locked, an unspoken bond formed between them, their clasped hands sealing an invisible contract. Shia smiled and, with a firm tug, helped her to her feet. With their partnership established, they sat together to discuss the details of the plan. However, Aph still had conditions to lay out. "Although we¡¯re working together, I need to make two things clear." "First, my involvement must remain hidden from the princess." "Second, you are not to lay hands on the princess without reason." The first condition was to avoid making Violet feel betrayed. While their ultimate goal was for her benefit, the process of hardening her through adversity would inevitably cause pain. Aph didn¡¯t want Violet to one day look at her with suspicion. The second condition was even simpler: Aph¡¯s agreement to collaborate was based on a desire to supervise Shia¡¯s actions. While she supported training Violet, she wouldn¡¯t allow Shia to cross any lines. Shia agreed without hesitation. "Understood." Reassured by his response, Aph mentally reviewed their agreement and found no immediate issues. Her worries eased. But then another thought occurred to her. Training the princess, keeping her involvement secret, ensuring nothing excessive happened to Violet¡ªit seemed Aph and Violet were the only ones benefiting. What, then, was in it for Shia? She asked, curious, "Since we¡¯ve agreed to work together, what price do you expect me to pay?" Shia froze. A price? Wasn¡¯t he doing this to mess around and manipulate her in the first place? Now that things had progressed this far, how could he dare ask for more? "Nothing at all. I¡¯m just helping out of goodwill." Shia offered a flawless smile, though internally, he was mildly panicking. He¡¯d already gotten what he wanted; asking for more would be too much. "This won¡¯t do!" Aph countered firmly. She was serious. A fair contract required equal exchange. She couldn¡¯t allow Shia to suffer such a loss. No deal came without cost, and a contract with no compensation often bore the heaviest price. Having benefited from this arrangement, she felt compelled to pay something in return. But what could she offer Shia? Shia was bewildered. "Really, I think things are fine as they are." He had already justified his actions by convincing himself that Violet was also gaining something from his manipulations. Demanding further benefits seemed unnecessary. "No, that¡¯s unacceptable!" Aph insisted, her tone unyielding. "You can¡¯t lose out on this!" "Well, what do you have that I¡¯d even want?" Shia replied, mostly out of exasperation. His words prompted Aph to deeply consider what she possessed that might interest him. Her devotion to the princess compelled her to take on this responsibility alone. After a moment of contemplation, a realization struck her. "I¡¯ve got it!" Shia blinked, completely lost. What did she think she had figured out? Before he could clarify, Aph, radiant with determination, reached for the back of her waist. In one fluid motion, the knightly woman¡¯s armor fell away. Chapter 96: Aph’s Bold Bargain Chapter 96: Aph¡¯s Bold Bargain What was previously hidden beneath her tight bindings surged forth with an explosive freedom. Her magnificent breasts bounced unapologetically, creating an irresistible, jiggling spectacle. Aph straightened her posture, emphasizing her imposing chest with pride. The visual impact was enough to render Shia completely dumbstruck. He stared, wide-eyed and speechless, at the breathtaking sight before him, questioning every life decision that had led him to this moment. Aph noticed where his gaze lingered and couldn¡¯t help but feel a flicker of smug satisfaction. ¡°This is what makes me most attractive to the opposite sex!¡± ¡°This is what I can offer as a trade!¡± If it meant helping her princess, her body was a small price to pay. Seeing Shia¡¯s stunned reaction, Aph felt validated. Beneath her stern and noble exterior, the knightly big sister¡¯s mind worked in surprising ways. Sure, it felt like something out of a raunchy fantasy, but the shock factor was undeniable. An experienced lady knight like her had emerged¡ªa true force to be reckoned with. No man could resist such allure. ¡°I offer this as my price for our contract. Is this acceptable?¡± Her tone carried an unusual hint of pride. While her considerable assets were sometimes a nuisance, in moments like these, they were undeniably her strongest bargaining chip. Shia struggled to move his gaze away from her monumental chest. His thoughts raced. What had blinded me to this before? Was it¡ªStolen story; please report. ''Ahem.'' Back to the point. ¡°I¡¯m serious; I don¡¯t need any additional payment. I¡¯m just happy to help.¡± ¡°And I¡¯m serious too. Contracts must come with compensation. You boys love things like this, right? I understand. I really do.¡± Shia¡¯s mind blanked out. Understand? What the hell do you think you understand?! Yet as he stared at her proud, confident expression¡ªthe epitome of a seasoned seductress¡ªhe found himself utterly speechless. His thoughts were a chaotic mess. This wasn¡¯t the Aph he knew from the game. The game¡¯s version of her was a reserved knight, seemingly uninterested in men. He had assumed she was entirely devoted to her princess, but now¡ Her actions were entirely unexpected, and her sultry demeanor starkly contrasted with her usual composed and loyal image. This woman¡ Was this part of her training too? Even as he tried to reconcile her game counterpart with reality, he couldn¡¯t deny the sheer impact of the scene before him. In a way, it made sense. Without the game creators¡¯ twisted sense of humor limiting her behavior, Aph had adapted to real-life dynamics. Her boldness was almost overwhelming. Although¡ her "offering" was nothing short of jaw-dropping. Shia thought of Violet, the only woman whose regal presence could match or even outshine Aph¡¯s sensuality. Even so, Aph¡¯s sheer confidence in this moment was unparalleled. Despite her vast knowledge of male preferences (gleaned from countless books and theories), Aph herself was inexperienced. As the initial rush of pride faded, the cool air against her bare chest made her bite her lip nervously. She crossed her arms over her ample bosom, but it only served to emphasize their fullness rather than conceal them. With an earnest expression, she declared, ¡°You can seal the contract here, right on my chest. My body¡ is yours for now.¡± Closing her eyes, she leaned forward slightly, a picture of submission and determination. Yet the slight trembling of her lashes betrayed her nervousness. Shia was silent. How was he supposed to respond to this? Reject her? He wasn¡¯t exactly a gentleman unused to such sights. But going further felt excessive, especially since he¡¯d already gained enough. Aph waited, eyes closed, but when nothing happened, she cautiously opened them, glancing up at Shia. His silence confused her, and her mind raced. Was he waiting for her to take the initiative? Her cheeks flushed, and a hint of irritation crept into her gaze. ¡°You¡¯re such a¡ pervert!¡± Biting her lip, she turned her head away, chiding him in a voice both shy and accusatory. Her flustered reaction only heightened her appeal, and Shia couldn¡¯t bring himself to say a word. All he wanted was to help¡ªbut now, he felt like a villain straight out of a sordid tale. Before he could process further, Aph had knelt before him, her determined gaze now level with his. Looking down, he saw her unwavering seriousness, tinged with curiosity and a thirst for knowledge. Though she had scolded him moments earlier, her commitment to the contract was absolute. If she had to be proactive, she would be. Faced with her eagerness, Shia was at a loss. How could he teach this woman to temper her zeal while guiding her loyalty back toward Violet? Looking down at the devoted knight before him, he felt a mix of amusement, responsibility, and exasperation. He hadn¡¯t set out to steal the affections of Violet¡¯s most loyal knight, yet here he was, threading the fine line between ally and¡ something else. ¡°Your princess won¡¯t kill me for this, right?¡± he murmured. For all her aloofness, Violet was fiercely protective of Aph. If she found out about this ¡°contract,¡± her reaction would likely be¡ explosive. Aph tilted her head in confusion, still uncertain about the depth of his concern. In that moment, the contract was sealed. A subtle surge of energy intertwined their fates, cementing their alliance. Shia couldn¡¯t help but sigh. His attempts to be helpful had once again been misinterpreted in the most absurd way possible. Meanwhile, in the Library A silver-haired beauty sat by the window, flipping through a thick book. The serene atmosphere of the library was broken only by the soft rustling of pages and the faint scratching of a pen on paper. A gentle breeze swept through the room, stirring her hair. Violet twitched her nose, sneezing delicately. ¡°Ah-choo!¡± She shivered and glanced outside. ''Autumn already?'' Peering out the window, she was greeted by vibrant greenery rather than the colors of fall. A leaf fluttered through the air, landing softly atop her silver hair. Unaware, Violet brushed it aside absentmindedly, returning to her book.
A Special Thank You!: I want to extend my deepest gratitude to [Jeff Thomas], for supporting me on Patreon!Chapter 97: The Princess’s Hidden Strategy Chapter 97: The Princess¡¯s Hidden Strategy In Class Later, Violet and Shia crossed paths again, as they did daily. As always, Violet exuded an untouchable elegance. Her silken silver hair, perfect posture, and pristine white stockings highlighted her ethereal beauty. She was like an untarnished snow lotus, blooming on an icy mountaintop¡ªdistant and unreachable. Shia, however, was no longer the same as before. This time, he sat beside her with ease, a confident smile playing on his lips. From afar, the contrast between the suave Shia and the dignified Violet seemed almost poetic. Though wary, Violet couldn¡¯t entirely ignore him. Her eyes remained fixed on her book, though her body subtly shifted to put more space between them. Unperturbed, Shia greeted her warmly. ¡°Good morning, Violet.¡± She stiffened but offered no response, her tension palpable. The once-carefree boy had transformed, and Violet couldn¡¯t help but wonder: What on earth was this man planning? "Why isn¡¯t he sitting next to that girl, Rong?" What¡¯s he planning this time? Violet''s alarm bells were ringing like crazy, her gaze brimming with wariness. If before she had silently tried to create some distance, now she was blatantly trying to keep away. The last time he sat beside her, he did something so outrageous in class. And the time before that, when she thought she had the upper hand, she ended up being bullied even worse. So what was he up to now? Hadn¡¯t they agreed to stay out of each other¡¯s way? Her mind was spinning so fast with possibilities that she didn¡¯t even have the energy to respond to Shia¡¯s greeting. Shia felt helpless. This time, he genuinely had no ill intentions. He had already gone out of his way to act so "kind," so why was she even more terrified?If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. His gaze dropped to Violet¡¯s hand, gripping the pen so tightly that her fingers were turning pale. How much force was she using? ¡°By the way, I¡¯ve missed quite a few classes recently. Violet, could I borrow your notes to catch up?¡± Shia asked with a friendly smile. Though inwardly resigned, he was still determined to salvage his reputation. Violet nudged her notebook and textbook closer to herself, her eyes growing even more alert. What does he want this time?! Shia sighed, exasperated. ¡°I really mean no harm.¡± But it was no use. The kinder he acted, the more Violet recoiled, her face filled with skepticism. Her expression screamed, ''Do you even believe that yourself?'' She looked at him as if he were some dangerous creature, full of disgust and caution. It was almost impossible for Shia to keep his composure. Finally, he decided to drop the act altogether. ¡°Smack!¡± Shia slapped his hand down on Violet¡¯s plush, white silk-covered thigh. Her full, luscious thighs quivered under the impact, jiggling slightly before the firm flesh pushed his hand back. The sensation was incredible. Violet¡¯s face instantly paled by two shades. She bit her lip, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears. She knew it. This scoundrel was up to no good! Shia gave her a sideways glance and patted the seat next to him. ''Be good. Sit here.'' Though Violet looked utterly wronged, she obediently shifted over to sit right next to him, her body pressed close as if they were an intimate couple. She had no choice; who knew what this guy might do next? He clearly didn¡¯t care that they were in a classroom. Shia seemed satisfied. He suspected Violet might have some masochistic tendencies¡ªshe only seemed to behave properly when he bullied her. The elegant and refined young man paired with the noble and untouchable princess: they looked like a match made in heaven. But it was all just a facade. Under the desk, Violet¡¯s silk-clad legs were taut, the muscles in her thighs visibly flexing as she readied herself to flee at any moment. If Shia dared to go too far, she was prepared to bolt. Better to live and fight another day. Did she really think Shia wouldn¡¯t notice these subtle movements? He merely cast a fleeting glance her way, then boldly placed his hand back on her thigh. His lips moved slightly, his voice barely audible, meant only for the two of them. ¡°Don¡¯t move.¡± Violet pursed her lips, feeling both aggrieved and helpless. ''When did I move?'' ''You¡¯re the one acting out, not me!'' She sat still, full of pent-up frustration, looking every bit like a pitiful victim. On the surface, she seemed obedient and meek. But in reality, her mind was racing. Did he really think he was the only one scheming? Hah, naive! The most cunning hunters often appear as prey. While it might seem like she was being manipulated, Violet had her own plans in motion. After a day of careful consideration, she had formed a strategy. Running away wasn¡¯t a viable long-term solution. She was the dignified Princess of the Silver Moon¡ªhow could she just admit defeat so easily? Although she¡¯d briefly entertained the idea of avoiding him forever during her low moments, after cooling off, she decided that wasn¡¯t an option. She wasn¡¯t the same naive freshman who had just entered Seven Shields Academy. If she was going to fight back, she¡¯d have to do it subtly, without exposing her intentions. The best strategy was to keep things as they were. You think I¡¯m trying to escape? You think I¡¯m scared? That¡¯s just what I want you to think! Like now, by letting the enemy take the initiative and pretending to comply, she could get closer to him. People are most prone to making mistakes when they lower their guard. That¡¯s when they reveal their weaknesses. And once she had gathered enough information, she¡¯d strike back with precision and make him pay dearly! With this plan in mind, Violet acted even more submissive on the surface. She resembled a meek little wife who had reluctantly bowed to her husband¡¯s dominance. The once-pure Princess Violet had now mastered the art of deceitful scheming. These hidden thoughts remained unknown to everyone. On the surface, their apparent harmony caught someone¡¯s eye. Ella, standing at the podium, watched the pair closely. She noticed every little move they made under the desk and their almost-too-close seating arrangement. She silently shifted her gaze back to her teaching materials, continuing the lecture. But her mind was weighed down by other thoughts. Violet, as the Princess of the Silver Moon, was not only of noble birth but also one of the most outstanding freshmen this year. Her status and potential made her a student worthy of great attention, whether for Ella¡¯s undercover identity or her official role as a Seven Shields Academy instructor. She had turned a blind eye to Shia¡¯s past indiscretions, tolerating his misbehavior in the classroom. But there was a limit. If this continued¡ªonce, twice, or three times¡ªit might draw unwanted attention to Violet. And being noticed could lead to complications that no one wanted. Ella sighed inwardly. It seemed it was time to have a serious talk with her student. Students should act like students¡ªno bullying classmates, no overstepping boundaries.
A Special Thank You!: I want to extend my deepest gratitude to [DJ P], for supporting me on Patreon!Chapter 98: In the Office, the teacher Gets Played by the Little Devil Chapter 98: In the Office, the teacher Gets Played by the Little Devil Ella¡¯s face was once again adorned with a gentle and elegant smile as she confidently addressed the classroom, exuding the air of a perfect teacher. Time slipped by, minute after minute. An hour-long class, neither too short nor too long, passed in the blink of an eye as the bell signaled the end. However, one particular teacher couldn¡¯t deny the irritation bubbling inside her as she thought about the intimate interactions that had unfolded during class. For students, the end of class is always irresistibly appealing. But as the bell rang, Ella didn¡¯t dismiss everyone immediately. Instead, she turned her gaze toward Shia. ¡°Shia, come to the office with me.¡± Her words silenced the room instantly. All eyes turned toward Shia. Calmly, he stood, nodded, and followed her without hesitation. Nobody thought he was in trouble. With Shia¡¯s brilliance and mysterious aura, it was natural for teachers to favor him. Several classmates even looked at him with envy. Ella turned and led the way. Her tight-fitting dress clung perfectly to her curves, her hips swaying slightly as she walked, creating a rhythm that was both elegant and captivating. When they arrived at the office, Shia casually shut the door behind him as they entered. Ella turned to face him, settling into a swivel chair. Crossing her long, shapely legs¡ªenhanced by the sheer black stockings she wore¡ªshe exuded elegance and a quiet authority. Her black patent leather stilettos added a touch of sharpness, while her cool, refined demeanor made her all the more intimidating. She leaned back in her chair and locked her gaze on Shia. ¡°Explain yourself. What¡¯s going on with you?¡± Shia responded with a relaxed smile, showing no sign of unease under her scrutiny.Unauthorized tale usage: if you spot this story on Amazon, report the violation. ¡°Obviously, I¡¯ve been focused on studying and improving myself.¡± His nonchalant response made her expression grow colder. ¡°Classmates should treat each other with kindness and respect. Now, tell me¡ªwhat exactly have you been up to lately?¡± Ella placed her delicate hand on the desk, her knuckles tapping softly but firmly as she narrowed her eyes, her demeanor dripping with authority. The subtle yet powerful gesture heightened the tension in the room. Shia¡¯s gaze lingered on Ella¡¯s face, which was clearly tinged with frustration. But fear? That wasn¡¯t in his vocabulary. Feigning innocence, Shia tilted his head. ¡°Have I done something wrong?¡± The innocence in his tone was almost believable. Had Ella not seen it all herself, she might¡¯ve been fooled. ¡°I saw everything you were doing in class,¡± she said firmly. ¡°Don¡¯t think you can fool me.¡± Shia finally adopted an expression of realization. ¡°Oh¡ Are you talking about my interactions with Violet?¡± ¡°Call me Miss Ella,¡± she corrected him sharply. ¡°Miss Ella,¡± he amended smoothly. ¡°I was just strengthening the bond between classmates. Was that wrong?¡± ¡°You¡¯re still trying to argue?¡± she said, her tone growing harsher. Shia smirked, stepping closer. ¡°Miss Ella, if I¡¯ve done something wrong¡¡± As his voice softened, he reached out and took her slender, delicate hand into his. His fingers closed around hers as he gently pulled her toward him. Before she could react, he had drawn her into his embrace. Leaning close to her ear, he whispered, ¡°¡then teach me, Miss Ella.¡± Ella¡¯s outfit was a masterpiece of understated elegance: a lilac dress that hugged her full, curvaceous figure, its round neckline revealing a hint of her smooth collarbone. The hem stopped mid-thigh, showing off her legs encased in sheer black stockings and ending in sleek black stilettos. Her makeup was flawless¡ªa touch of dark eyebrow powder, subtle eyeliner extending from her eyes, and lips so glossy they gleamed like ripe fruit. Her violet hair was pinned up with a hairpin, with a few loose strands framing her soft, delicate face. She was the epitome of refined beauty and mature allure. As her body fell against his, her soft, supple curves pressed into him. His warmth seeped through her skin, enveloping her completely. His scent filled her senses, making her body feel weak and her knees unsteady. The boy¡¯s embrace was far too comforting, making her want to linger in it. Yet, at the same time, it was overwhelming, heating her cheeks until they flushed pink. How had this little devil managed to control her so completely again? The office was silent, though her nerves were anything but calm. Ella wasn¡¯t important enough to have her own private office, so she strained her ears, listening for any movement in the hallway. If someone approached, it would be disastrous. ¡°Let go¡¡± she whispered, her voice trembling. She tried to push him away, but her efforts were feeble against the boy¡¯s strength. ¡°This is an office,¡± she scolded, keeping her voice low. ¡°Be mindful of where we are! If anyone sees you doing this to your teacher¡¡± Her voice trailed off, unable to complete the threat. Shia chuckled softly, his hand sliding down to her waist and brushing over the curve of her hip. His voice was low and teasing as he whispered again into her ear, ¡°Miss Ella, do you really want me to let go?¡± The warmth of his breath sent shivers through her body, leaving her paralyzed and unable to reply. Her lips parted slightly, but no words came. ¡°Your reaction says otherwise,¡± he continued with a knowing smirk. Ella was caught in a whirlwind of shame and frustration. She turned her head, exposing the graceful curve of her neck, and braced herself for whatever would come next. But nothing did. After a long, tense pause, she opened her eyes and looked up at him. Shia¡¯s face was calm, his expression gentle and reassuring. Instead of pushing further, he took a step back and began tidying her hair and adjusting her slightly ruffled dress. His movements were deliberate, his touch warm and unhurried. Ella stared at him in a daze, her mind a swirl of confusion and emotions. He had been so close, yet he didn¡¯t cross the line. But instead of feeling relief, she felt a pang of disappointment. Was she losing her charm? Had she grown old and unappealing? The image of Violet¡¯s youthful beauty flashed in her mind, a stark contrast to her own situation. As a widow, she had thought herself still desirable. But the boy holding her had treated her with nothing but respect, and it stung more than it should have. She scolded herself for her foolish thoughts. Her only goal was to ensure his cooperation in reviving her husband. Nothing more. That¡¯s all this was about. Right?
A Special Thank You!: I want to extend my deepest gratitude to [Trevor Standifer], for supporting me on Patreon!Chapter 99: The Golden-Haired Mary Sue Finally Faces Misery Chapter 99: The Golden-Haired Mary Sue Finally Faces Misery Meanwhile, in the bushes outside the building, Lilith crouched, her eyes sharp as she watched the area for any signs of movement. Lilith was squatting at her strategic location¡ªstaking out Nia¡¯s route. After much deliberation, she had concluded that the most captivating and achievable target in the academy was undoubtedly the senior elf princess, Nia. First, there was the matter of appearances. The elves, known for their unparalleled beauty, already stood out, but Nia¡¯s allure as the elven princess was simply on another level. Her flawless, snow-white skin and impeccable features were breathtaking, complemented by her soft, light-green eyes that could captivate anyone at a single glance. Her entire being exuded an ethereal elegance, a delicacy that could drive anyone wild with desire. But it wasn¡¯t just her beauty and ethereal demeanor that made her irresistible¡ªthere was her endearing na?vet¨¦. Though she appeared mature, her soft and adorable demeanor made her approachable and easy to charm. And that was the key¡ªshe was easy to approach, easy to entice. With these qualities, even in a school brimming with beauty and talent, Nia was undoubtedly among the top five goddesses. Now, as someone who had already managed to make Nia her loyal admirer, Lilith believed she had a significant advantage. She could practically reach out and grab what others could only dream of. With these thoughts in mind, Lilith¡¯s face split into a wide grin of self-satisfaction. ¡°Slurp!¡± Realizing her expression had grown awkwardly exaggerated, Lilith rubbed her face to compose herself, stifling the perverse grin that threatened to ruin her refined image. Sure, she might look like a golden-haired, black-stockinged beauty, but that lecherous aura she sometimes exuded was far too incongruent.Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings. She quickly adjusted her demeanor and mentally reviewed her plan. As she mulled it over, two figures appeared in the distance. Her gaze immediately fixed on the petite yet voluptuous figure of Nia, completely ignoring the handsome and refined young man beside her. Lilith had chosen this location strategically¡ªit was the only path leading to the Arlinga Estate. She was waiting for the moment when Nia would accompany Shia back to the villa. Her target had arrived. She stepped casually out of the corner, her expression calm and unhurried, as if she had just happened to be passing by. Seeing Nia, her eyes lit up, and she greeted them warmly with a radiant smile. ¡°Nia, are you heading to our house as a guest?¡± Her voice carried the perfect mix of friendliness and poise. ¡°What a coincidence¡ªI¡¯m heading back, too. Shall we go together?¡± Her demeanor was flawless, her approach seemingly effortless, leaving no room for suspicion. To any outsider, Lilith¡¯s cheerful and sunny disposition, paired with her golden locks and sparkling smile, would have been disarming. Even if she didn¡¯t immediately win someone over, it would be nearly impossible to dislike her. This "coincidental" encounter was meticulously planned, with every step leading seamlessly to the next. For example, her invitation to walk home together. And why was she so happy about living in what she jokingly called a ¡°doghouse¡±? Because it was a brilliant tactical advantage! Once the three of them arrived home, Lilith discreetly signaled Tia with her eyes. ''You handle it¡ªdistract Shia for me.'' This, too, was part of her plan. It worked like a charm. Her ¡°innocent¡± fianc¨¦ was easily tricked and led away by her cunning maid. ¡°Hah! What a clueless fool!¡± Lilith thought with a smirk. ¡°If he isn¡¯t destined to be a tragic lead, who else could take the role?¡± And just like that, the living room was left with only Lilith and Nia. Lilith¡¯s heart pounded with excitement as she looked at the dainty elf senior. Despite her soft and innocent demeanor, Nia¡¯s mature and curvaceous figure was a work of art, igniting a fire within Lilith. Taking the initiative, Lilith sat down beside Nia, her movements deliberate yet natural. ¡°Nia, how are you finding things here? Are you settling in well?¡± Her tone was friendly and familiar as she leaned closer, almost touching her. Her strategy was clear: under the guise of friendly conversation, she would close the distance between them and make her move at just the right moment. But her hopes were soon dashed. Though Nia appeared to be dazed, she wasn¡¯t oblivious. As Lilith inched closer, nearly brushing against her, Nia suddenly clapped her hands together in realization. ¡°Oh!¡± She stood up abruptly, leaving Lilith stunned and empty-handed. Before Lilith could react, Nia went to pour herself a glass of water. Turning back with a cheerful and innocent smile, she asked, ¡°Would you like some water too?¡± Lilith¡¯s mind reeled. ''I don¡¯t want water¡ªI want you!'' Of course, she couldn¡¯t say that out loud. Instead, she politely declined. Undeterred, she decided to bide her time and try again. To build rapport, one had to follow the other person¡¯s lead, steering the conversation toward their interests while subtly bridging the gap between them. As Nia returned to the sofa and sat down, her slender legs¡ªclad in sheer, moss-green stockings¡ªcrossed elegantly, her feet forming a delicate inward angle. ¡°Do you have any favorite things, Nia?¡± Lilith asked with a mysterious smile, steering the conversation toward a new topic. ¡°Favorite things?¡± Nia blinked, her expression blank, as though she hadn¡¯t quite processed the question. Sensing an opening, Lilith pressed on. ¡°What do you think about dogs?¡± Without waiting for a reply, she knelt on the ground and began mimicking a dog¡¯s behavior, even barking softly. ¡°Woof, woof!¡± Nia watched in wide-eyed astonishment as Lilith crawled around on the floor, her expression shifting from confusion to amused disbelief. Lilith felt a surge of pride. Crawling to Nia¡¯s side, she continued her antics, inwardly reveling in her creative approach. ¡°See? Even Shia¡¯s training has its uses,¡± she thought smugly. ¡°Who knew acting like a dog could be this effective?¡± Her plan was simple: by playing the role of an affectionate puppy, she could win Nia¡¯s favor, and perhaps more. Chapter 100: Maid’s Dilemma Chapter 100: Maid¡¯s Dilemma Elves were known for their love of nature and animals, so surely Nia would find her adorable. But reality was cruel. Nia simply frowned, clearly unimpressed. ¡°You¡¯re not cute at all,¡± she said bluntly, swatting Lilith away. Though her pride stung, Lilith refused to give up. ¡°A thousand slaps from my goddess are nothing¡ªI¡¯ll always love her like it¡¯s our first romance!¡± Despite the setbacks, Lilith¡¯s determination remained unwavering. Her relentless pursuit of Nia continued, driven by sheer devotion and a touch of madness. Lilith was busy plotting to steal Nia¡¯s attention and hadn¡¯t realized she herself was on the verge of being outmaneuvered. Meanwhile, her maid, Tia, had found an excuse to lead Shia away. Now, the two of them were alone together. Shia stood with his arms spread wide as Tia meticulously measured him. Her expression remained icy and detached, exuding a reserved, unapproachable air, but the faint, cool fragrance of her perfume lingered as always. Sliding the measuring tape around Shia¡¯s waist, she leaned in to ensure precision. Shia caught a whiff of the soft, lingering scent she carried. ¡°So, does your lady always treat you like this?¡± he teased without hesitation. Tia glanced at him briefly before recording the numbers on her clipboard, her movements precise and deliberate. She ignored his comment completely, her icy demeanor unbroken. ¡°Cold as ever,¡± Shia muttered, chuckling. ¡°Was this her plan all along?¡± Shia continued, reclining slightly to meet her gaze. ¡°Distract me so she can make her move?¡± He paused, his tone teasing yet laced with curiosity. ¡°Let me guess¡ªher target is Nia, right? My elven ¡®slave,¡¯ who also happens to be the third-year princess?¡±The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation. When Tia didn¡¯t respond, Shia smirked. ¡°What? Is she not interested in you, her loyal maid?¡± Tia¡¯s hands stilled momentarily before pressing the pen against the clipboard with noticeable force, denting the surface. ¡°Well, if you won¡¯t answer, let¡¯s get straight to the point,¡± Shia said, dropping his arms and flopping onto the sofa with a casual air. ¡°Prove your value to me,¡± he said bluntly, tilting his head to observe her reaction. Tia hesitated, her grip on the measuring tape tightening as her eyes flickered to Shia. His sudden shift in tone caught her off guard. Moments earlier, she had been ignoring his comments, determined to remain unbothered. But his unexpected change in approach left her unsettled. Shia, however, wasn¡¯t letting up. ¡°Your lady sent you to buy time, didn¡¯t she?¡± he asked, his voice smooth and calculated. ¡°Well, if you want to stall me, I¡¯ll oblige¡ but whether you succeed depends entirely on your abilities.¡± His gaze dropped, deliberately lingering on her figure. ¡°Serve me well, and maybe I won¡¯t interfere with your lady¡¯s plans. Don¡¯t you think that¡¯s fair?¡± His warm smile was disarming, but the intent behind it was unmistakable. Tia followed his gaze and realized where it had landed. A blush crept up her pale cheeks, and she bit her lip, struggling to maintain composure. She felt a deep sense of humiliation, like a concubine summoned against her will to please an emperor. No autonomy. No dignity. Yet, her lady¡¯s orders rang clear in her mind. Tia¡¯s teeth pressed harder into her lip, leaving faint indentations. Slowly, her knees bent, and her posture sank lower. Something inside her cracked, a faint glimmer of defiance extinguishing under the weight of duty. She didn¡¯t want to comply. She loathed the idea of listening to Shia¡¯s demands. But his unspoken threat loomed. If she refused, he could interrupt her mistress¡¯s plans at any moment, and failure was not an option. Tia had always followed her lady¡¯s orders without hesitation. Even if it meant enduring humiliation, she wouldn¡¯t falter now. Shia closed his eyes, sinking further into the sofa. As for Nia¡¯s way of offering comfort? There was absolutely no need to worry about that! The simple ability to listen to someone¡¯s heartfelt thoughts made her presence safe and reassuring. After all, this naturally naive elf princess was also one of the most challenging characters to win over early on. In the room, the aroma diffuser in the corner quietly worked, as fragrant liquid climbed up the wooden stick and dispersed into th e air. The room was serene, save for the faint scent of fragrant oils diffusing from a corner. Before him knelt Tia, the usually stoic maid now subdued. Her white stockings clung tightly to her legs, highlighting their soft, supple curves. The angle of her position accentuated the contours of her body, her maid outfit dipping low enough to reveal an enticing glimpse of cleavage. At that moment, Shia¡¯s feet rested casually on the plush expanse of her chest, the soft sensation beneath them drawing a satisfied sigh from his lips. Tia¡¯s head remained bowed, her ears tinged a deep crimson. Though her previous disdain for Shia had somewhat diminished, the act of serving him filled her with shame. Her hands worked methodically, massaging his feet with precise, deliberate motions. Her fingers pressed against key pressure points, expertly relieving tension and fatigue. This wasn¡¯t the first time she had performed such duties¡ªher lady had often praised her skill in these matters. But now, doing the same for someone other than her mistress left Tia feeling like a traitor. Guilt gnawed at her, spreading through her chest like a slow, suffocating weight. ''How did it come to this?'' she thought. ''I¡¯m loyal to my lady¡ and yet¡'' Shia¡¯s voice interrupted her spiraling thoughts. ¡°Not bad. You¡¯ve done this often, haven¡¯t you?¡± Tia didn¡¯t respond immediately, her inner turmoil silencing her. But the ingrained discipline of a maid left her no choice but to answer eventually. ¡°Yes,¡± she whispered, the word barely audible. Her heart sank further. It felt as though she had acknowledged Shia as her master, betraying her mistress completely. ''I¡¯m despicable¡'' she thought bitterly. ''How could I lower myself to serve anyone but her?'' Shia, seemingly unaware of her internal struggle, rested his chin on his hand and mused aloud. ¡°What should you call me, I wonder?¡± His tone was light, almost teasing, as if to draw her deeper into the abyss of her guilt. Tia¡¯s blush deepened, her crimson ears a clear indication of her mounting embarrassment. Guilt and shame swirled within her, threatening to overwhelm her entirely.
A Special Thank You!: I want to extend my deepest gratitude to [Jose Daniel Garcia Aguilar], for supporting me on Patreon!Chapter 101: Your Lady Is Right Next Door, I Bet You Can’t Wake Her (1) Chapter 101: Your Lady Is Right Next Door, I Bet You Can¡¯t Wake Her (1) She still heard her own voice. "Master." Shia was in an obviously good mood, his smile radiant. "Mhm, sounds nice. Say it a few more times." Tia felt her heart sink into despair. No, her only master was her lady! But her body refused to obey. No matter how much she resisted, the voice that came out was still hers. Soft and submissive, as if another soul had taken over her body. "Master, Master¡" Shia watched the numbers on the screen as the taming value steadily increased. He was quite pleased with the results. Even though Tia''s heart was filled with unwillingness, and her pale face reflected utter despair, he didn¡¯t care. After all, who would? The twisted satisfaction of dominating her¡ªthe loyal servant of her lady¡ªwas irresistible. Wasn¡¯t she supposed to be the most faithful dog, devoted entirely to her lady? Then naturally, she should serve and obey, even if it meant betraying her loyalty. So, even as he noticed the resentment in her eyes, Shia felt no guilt. Especially when she acted obedient despite her internal resistance, the sense of triumph was intoxicating. This feeling was simply amazing.The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. Tia couldn¡¯t even recall when it all ended or how she made her way back to Lilith¡¯s home. Her body felt drained, her limbs weak and trembling. But she forced herself to act as if nothing had happened. The price she paid to complete her lady¡¯s task¡ªhow could she let the lady know? If Lilith found out, would she look down on her? Tia maintained her usual smile, pretending that nothing was amiss. Lilith was chattering incessantly about her "friendly" interaction with the imperial princess. Even though she had been bruised and battered, she remained enthusiastic. While the current struggle was difficult, the future seemed promising. After all, it was Nia they were talking about! Lilith¡¯s mind was abuzz with ideas as she eagerly strategized her approach to Nia. Catering to someone¡¯s preferences was always the quickest way to win their favor. But rash actions like today¡¯s weren¡¯t acceptable in the future. "Tia, I need you to do something for me." "Yes." Tia responded without hesitation. As the lady¡¯s most loyal maid, she would never refuse a command. No matter what it was. "It¡¯s inconvenient for me to act personally at times, so I need you to gather information about Nia¡¯s daily routine. When she leaves, where she goes, what she does, how long she stays, when she returns home¡¡± Understanding her schedule was essential for crafting the perfect plan and appearing at the right time. Staging a seemingly fated encounter was a skill Lilith had mastered. Know your target, and you¡¯ll never fail! Tia¡¯s gaze dimmed but remained compliant. "Also, find out her likes and habits." Only then could they tailor their approach. Based on today¡¯s experience, it seemed Nia wasn¡¯t very fond of dogs. Next time, she would need to prepare better and present something Nia couldn¡¯t resist. Tia obediently agreed, her demeanor as submissive as ever. Lilith went through her plans again and concluded that everything was foolproof for now. Satisfied, she relaxed. The sound of wine being poured into a glass reached her ears. When it stopped, she instinctively held out her hand. But the glass didn¡¯t end up in her hand. Lilith frowned slightly and turned to Tia. Normally, she would have placed the glass directly into her hand. Lilith didn¡¯t have to lift a finger, enjoying the seamless service. But today¡ When Lilith turned her gaze, Tia handed her the glass of wine. Her movements were as obedient and graceful as ever. Lilith looked away, sipping her wine while dreaming of a bright future. She didn¡¯t notice the deepening sorrow in Tia¡¯s eyes. Tia wasn¡¯t being inattentive¡ªshe had done it on purpose, hoping to catch the lady¡¯s attention. She wanted Lilith to notice her, even if just for a moment. For that reason, she had changed into a special outfit. A unique maid uniform. Delicate lace trim outlined her thighs, with white stockings snugly hugging her plump legs and emphasizing their curves with a sensual allure. The narrow skirt barely covered her thighs, hinting at forbidden territory. The upper part featured a revealing design, exposing glimpses of her slender waist and smooth back. Unlike typical maid uniforms with puffed sleeves, this one was sleeveless, adorned only with lace bands around her arms. The thin straps and semi-transparent white lace fabric clung to her full, ample breasts, the neckline dipping dangerously low as if struggling to contain the weight. Her white hair was meticulously styled, and her cold, expressionless face exuded an air of untouchable beauty. The outfit perfectly highlighted her statuesque figure, combining the allure of a cool dominatrix with the restraint of icy elegance. Yet, even with such an effort, the lady¡¯s eyes never lingered on her¡ªnot even for a second. Why did she chase after other women? Why couldn¡¯t she see how exceptional Tia was? But Tia¡¯s silent plea was wasted on deaf eyes. Lilith seemed entirely unaware of her new outfit, not offering even a word of praise. To Lilith, Tia was merely her possession. And why would anyone pay attention to what was already theirs? If it was hers, she could enjoy it whenever she wanted. But Nia wasn¡¯t hers yet. She had to work hard to approach her, conquer her, and make her hers. While Lilith dreamed of her conquest, she casually waved her hand. It was a signal for Tia to leave. Despite her reluctance, Tia had no choice but to obey. Chapter 102: Your Lady Is Right Next Door, I Bet You Can’t Wake Her (2) Chapter 102: Your Lady Is Right Next Door, I Bet You Can¡¯t Wake Her (2) As she left, she closed the door softly. Just before it clicked shut, her eyes filled with sorrow as she glanced back at her beloved lady. No matter how unwilling, she still had to leave. The door slowly closed, and with a final ¡°click,¡± it shut completely. Tia turned around, leaning against the cold wall, her hands covering her face. Her body slid down slowly, and an involuntary sound of defeat escaped her lips¡ªa whimper like a vanquished stray. She would never win the heart of her beloved lady. No matter how devotedly she served, no matter how carefully she attended to every need, no matter how deep her feelings were¡ª Why? Why couldn¡¯t she see me? Shia¡¯s words echoed in her ears, over and over, like a curse. A curse that had now come true. Or perhaps, it was simply the truth. The lady had never seen her, not even once. Even after all these years of being together. Her obsession with the lady had always been there, from the very beginning. Even though she tried to hide it well, the fact that Lilith remained completely oblivious tore at her heart. Because the lady didn¡¯t care. She didn¡¯t care, and that¡¯s why, despite the constant closeness and overflowing affection, she never noticed. ¡°She doesn¡¯t really care about you.¡± Shia¡¯s voice overlapped with her inner thoughts, making it impossible for Tia to discern whether it was him speaking or her own mind.The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. Her hands fell from her face as she collapsed to the floor, utterly defeated. The exhaustion and soreness in her body spilled over, leaving her entirely drained. Just one wall away, the lady she loved most was resting peacefully, wholly consumed by her plans to pursue someone else. Someone who didn¡¯t even compare to her excellence. A seed planted in her heart began to take root¡ªa seed of resentment. --- Tia¡¯s hands slipped to her sides as her blank, defeated gaze stared into nothingness. She sat on the cold floor like a stray dog who had lost everything. Her heart, darkened and twisted, teetered on the edge of breaking. She couldn¡¯t accept reality. Though her sadness and helplessness overwhelmed her, a deep urge to vent the storm inside began to build. Too much heartbreak, too much disappointment¡ªit was unbearable. --- The cool autumn breeze blew through, carrying the chill of the night. A single raindrop fell to the ground, hitting Shia¡¯s window with a faint sound. More raindrops followed, the drizzle gradually washing away the remnants of summer¡¯s heat. Inside, Shia was sleeping soundly. But suddenly, the shrill ring of a phone broke through the stillness. Shia woke up groggily, grabbing his phone before even checking the screen. He placed it to his ear, only to hear Tia¡¯s icy voice on the other end. ¡°Come here,¡± she ordered, her tone commanding and devoid of warmth. Shia frowned, his eyes narrowing as he checked the caller ID. It was Tia. Bold of her to speak to him like that. Where did she get the audacity to think she could command him? Did she forget her place? Annoyed, he was about to ignore her, but something caught his attention. On his interface, the charm ring¡¯s taming value for Tia, which had remained stagnant at 0, had suddenly skyrocketed to 40% in mere moments. Something was definitely happening. He ended the call, threw on some clothes, and immediately headed out. --- The rain poured harder, the steady rhythm of droplets on his umbrella creating a muted symphony. When Shia arrived, a figure stood outside in the storm. Tia¡¯s long white hair was soaked, clinging to her body. Her already tight outfit now adhered completely to her curves, shamelessly outlining every inch of her voluptuous form. Her wet clothes left little to the imagination, her breasts heaving slightly as the rain streamed down her exposed skin. What was this? A seduction scene straight out of a novel? Was this another ploy by these women? Shia locked eyes with her. Her gaze was hollow, void of light. Before he could process the sight, the umbrella slipped from his grasp, falling to the ground. Rain poured down on him as Tia suddenly straddled him. Her expression was cold, emotionless, yet her soaked appearance radiated a dangerous allure. Her drenched hair framed her face as water dripped down her sharp jawline. She looked like a queen reigning above all¡ªor perhaps a seductive demon of the night. Her eyes held a haunting sorrow, like a fallen angel who had lost everything. ¡°You¡¯ve always wanted me, haven¡¯t you? Tonight, I¡¯ll give you the chance.¡± --- Her voice was low and hypnotic, her words brimming with dominance. But behind her bold proclamation lay a sense of despair. After all, if the one she loved didn¡¯t care about her, why should she? If giving herself to someone else would fill the emptiness, what did it matter? Besides, Shia was technically her lady¡¯s fianc¨¦. The thought sparked a twisted desire for revenge in her heart, fueling her recklessness. Shia, however, quickly grasped the situation. Damn, had he just become a substitute? Seeing Tia¡¯s raw emotions, laid bare and unfiltered, Shia felt a flicker of irritation. Even in her attempt to vent her anguish, she was so arrogantly dismissive of him. Did she think of him as some disposable plaything? The idea annoyed him greatly. But Shia wasn¡¯t one to turn down an opportunity¡ªespecially not with a woman like Tia. Leaning closer, his deep voice resonated. ¡°Do you even know what you¡¯re doing?¡± His tone carried a rough, masculine charm, as if daring her to defy him. If she wanted to play games, he¡¯d make sure to teach her exactly who was in control. If she thought she could use him, she¡¯d soon learn otherwise. Chapter 103: Your Lady Is Right Next Door, I Bet You Can’t Wake Her (3) Chapter 103: Your Lady Is Right Next Door, I Bet You Can¡¯t Wake Her (3) As the rain faded into the background, the cold walls of the room pressed against Tia¡¯s back. Her breath hitched as Shia¡¯s face loomed dangerously close, his arm resting beside her head. His presence filled the space, his scent intoxicating her senses. Though her body was weak and her mind conflicted, she didn¡¯t resist. At this point, it didn¡¯t matter whether they were inside or out. All she wanted was to drown in this moment and forget the pain. Shia, however, seemed in no rush. He glanced toward the adjoining room. ¡°Your lady is sleeping next door, isn¡¯t she? Sound asleep, I bet.¡± Hearing the mention of Lilith, Tia¡¯s attention snapped to him, alarm flashing in her eyes. Shia¡¯s smirk widened, a mischievous glint in his gaze. ¡°What do you think¡ªwould she wake up if we made a little noise?¡± Tia¡¯s eyes widened as she realized his intent. Panic set in as she struggled against him, her silent protests evident in her glare. But no sound escaped her lips. Tia leaned against the cold wall, realizing that she had indeed invited the wolf into her home. As Shia''s amused voice echoed in her ears, he was still intent on gambling. "I bet you won¡¯t wake her up," he teased. A hint of regret flashed through Tia¡¯s mind, but it was far too late for that. As Shia had made clear earlier¡ªhe wasn¡¯t someone who could be treated as a substitute. Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon. The room was filled with the muffled sounds of Tia¡¯s conflicted moans¡ªpain laced with a twisted sense of rebellious pleasure. On this rainy autumn night, in a dark, unlit room, she was taken. --- In the room next door, Lilith was blissfully lost in her dreams. She was dreaming about her ideal harem life, cuddling up with the adorable and curvaceous elf senior. Her lips curled into a satisfied smile as she rolled over in bed, hugging her blanket tightly as if it were the very figure she longed for. As for the noises from the adjacent room? She didn¡¯t hear a thing. She turned over once more, her slumber unbroken, and continued to drift in her peaceful fantasies. --- Tia stared blankly at the white ceiling, her body trembling as if the entire world were shaking. Her silver hair spilled across the bed like a radiant waterfall, and a sudden flash of lightning illuminated the sweat glistening on her skin. Lying on the edge of the bed, she gasped for air, seizing the brief moments of respite. Her pale skin was tinged with a delicate pink hue, blooming like a sea of peach blossoms¡ªa sight both fragile and breathtaking. Her emotions, however, were far more tangled. She desperately wanted to keep what had transpired hidden from her lady next door. Throughout the ordeal, she had tried her best to stifle her voice, but she hadn¡¯t been entirely successful, and the noise wasn¡¯t insignificant. Nervousness, fear, and guilt gnawed at her, yet the silence from the adjacent room remained unbroken. The lady hadn¡¯t heard anything? Shia¡¯s gamble had paid off. Again. What should have been a relief only left Tia feeling more hollow and despondent. The quiet outside the room, save for the sound of wind and rain, was suffocating. The absence of even a knock on the door to check on her filled her with a disappointment greater than any relief she might have felt. As the lightning faded and the room plunged back into darkness, only the sound of her gradually steadying breaths remained. She had hoped¡ªfoolishly, perhaps¡ªthat her commotion would bring the lady running, that the sound of her steps would echo in the hallway. When that knock came, she¡¯d have an excuse to stop. Instead¡ it went on until midnight. No knock. No concern. Nothing. Tia buried her face in her arms, overcome with shame and self-reproach. She hadn¡¯t wanted this. All she¡¯d wanted was to provoke the lady, to make her jealous, to grab her attention after being ignored for so long. She hadn¡¯t thought things through. But as the atmosphere built, and events naturally escalated, everything spiraled out of her control. --- The guilt of betraying her lady was like a vast ocean, drowning her in its depths, making it hard even to breathe. She regretted it deeply, her heart aching as waves of self-loathing consumed her. A sharp slap rang out. The stinging pain on her ass snapped her out of her spiraling thoughts. The trembling of her body from the force of the blow only deepened her sense of humiliation. Shia¡¯s voice remained steady, almost mocking as he offered a casual reminder. "Had enough rest?" It wasn¡¯t a question. It was a declaration: rest time was over. Tia¡¯s mind raced with memories of their earlier intensity, a storm of chaos and fervor that had left her feeling like she might fall apart. Her delicate frame shuddered with a trace of fear. Still, she lowered herself to the ground, turning to face Shia and kneeling submissively before him. Her voice was soft, barely audible over the rain. "Can we¡ stop? Please? If I wake up too late tomorrow, the lady will suspect something." Shia¡¯s lips curled into a smile. Some things didn¡¯t end just because you wanted them to. --- The next morning, the rain had stopped, and the world was refreshed. The sun shone brightly, the air crisp and clean after the storm had washed away the grime of the previous night. Lilith stood by the open window, basking in the morning breeze. She seemed to be in a wonderful mood. The sound of the door opening drew her attention¡ªit was Tia, coming in to clean. But something about her was off today. Lilith lingered by the window, listening to the faint rustling behind her. When she finally turned to look, she noticed Tia moving stiffly. Was she sore? Did she sleep wrong and numb one side of her body? Lilith didn¡¯t dwell on it, though. She had something more important to ask. "Is breakfast ready?" Tia paused her cleaning, bowing slightly. Only, this time, she couldn¡¯t bend very far¡ªher waist ached too much. The intense activity of the previous night had taken its toll, and recovery would not come quickly. "Yes, my lady, it¡¯s prepared," she replied, her voice slightly hoarse.
A Special Thank You!: I want to extend my deepest gratitude to [Conor lennon], for supporting me on Patreon!Chapter 104: Your Lady Is Right Next Door, I Bet You Can’t Wake Her (4) Chapter 104: Your Lady Is Right Next Door, I Bet You Can¡¯t Wake Her (4) Lilith nodded as she made her way to the dressing room, eager to select an outfit before heading to the dining room for breakfast. She left the task of tidying up to her ever-loyal maid, Tia. As Tia stood up, she glanced at Lilith¡¯s retreating figure, a sense of disappointment welling in her heart. Had she really been this obvious, and yet Lilith still hadn¡¯t noticed? Noticed what? Lilith, ever the theoretical queen of seduction but lacking practical experience, couldn¡¯t grasp what was wrong. In her naive mind, Tia¡¯s stiffness could only mean she¡¯d slept in an awkward position or overexerted herself during training. It wasn¡¯t entirely unreasonable. But Tia didn¡¯t know that. All she knew was that last night, despite the commotion just a wall away, her lady hadn¡¯t stirred. Not even once. And today, even as the signs of her physical discomfort were plain to see, Lilith didn¡¯t seem to care, not sparing her even a single question of concern. Lilith had already rationalized it in her mind. There was no need to ask about something so potentially embarrassing. After all, whether it was numbness from sleep or a strain from training, it was a private matter. As a considerate mistress, she wouldn¡¯t bring it up and risk embarrassing her maid. ''I truly am such a kind and thoughtful lady!'' Of course, there was another, less flattering reason. Why should she pay attention to something that was already hers?Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original. Her loyal, icy maid was firmly in her grasp, while the enchanting yet unclaimed elf princess was a challenge yet to be conquered. It was an easy choice. If Tia was hurt, a little medicine and rest would suffice. If she was stiff, it would resolve itself with time. Why lower herself to inquire further? What Lilith didn¡¯t realize was that her casual indifference only deepened Tia¡¯s disappointment. ''In her eyes, I truly don¡¯t exist.'' Tia¡¯s gaze toward Lilith changed. What once had been admiration was now tinged with ambition. She wanted Lilith to notice her, to see her as more than just a servant. But the proud and aloof lady would never lower her eyes to an insignificant maid, no matter how much she was admired. ''Unless they stood on the same level.'' The seeds of darkness in Tia¡¯s heart began to take root. While she despised the idea of someone like Shia tainting her beloved lady, the thought of Lilith and herself standing as equals was oddly satisfying. Involuntarily, her thoughts wandered back to Shia¡¯s actions the previous night. A soft blush crept across her cheeks, lending her an alluring, shy charm. ''That man may be wicked, but his strength is undeniable.'' Even someone as cold and arrogant as herself had been compelled to call him master. An audacious idea took shape in Tia¡¯s mind, sprouting and growing rapidly. ''What if the lady experienced¡ the same thing? Would she finally change?'' Unbeknownst to Lilith, her lack of attention was leading her maid down a dangerous path. At the moment, however, Lilith was blissfully unaware, happily picking out her stockings. Suddenly, a chill ran up her spine, cold and sharp, crawling from her feet to her back. She froze, her hand hovering over a pair of ultra-thin, semi-transparent stockings. Lilith turned to the window, puzzled. The sky was blue, with fluffy white clouds drifting lazily. Towering green trees and blooming flowers painted a lush, vibrant scene. It didn¡¯t look like autumn at all. ''Why does it feel so cold?'' She shifted her hand to a slightly thicker pair¡ªblack, opaque tights¡ªand pulled them out. Her gaze swept over her collection of stockings and skirts before she turned back toward the room. "Tia." Tia flinched, jolted out of her wicked thoughts. Had the lady caught on to her dark musings? Her heart raced with nervous guilt. "Yes, my lady?" "The weather is getting colder. Make sure to stock up on new clothes." With that, Lilith returned to her wardrobe, oblivious to the turmoil brewing in her maid¡¯s heart. Tia¡¯s rapid heartbeat gradually calmed, replaced by a wave of disappointment and regret. For a fleeting moment, she had thought Lilith had finally noticed her, finally realized something. But as always, she had been overthinking. What should have been a moment of relief left her hollow instead. Her lady, oblivious and indifferent, was far from the image she had idolized. ''If only things could change,'' Tia thought, her gaze growing darker and more intense. She bowed gracefully, her movements deliberate yet slow. "Yes, my lady." --- Meanwhile, across the villa, another scenario was unfolding. Shia¡¯s efforts to integrate into the social sphere had been paying off. The timid and socially awkward princess, Rong, had transformed from an aloof, reserved figure into someone who could comfortably engage in simple conversations. The two sat across from each other, Shia asking questions while Rong responded. The topics were lighthearted and mundane: "Have you eaten?" "Want to head to class together?" "What are your favorite things?" There were also situational exercises, like chatting during breakfast. Rong handled these with growing confidence, no longer stumbling over her words or blurting out awkward responses. By the end of the morning¡¯s practice, the progress was undeniable. "Not bad! You¡¯ve come a long way." Shia¡¯s grin was full of encouragement. Rong was pleased too, though her reserved nature meant her smile was only faint. "Keep it up. I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll get better and better.¡± Chapter 105: Innocent Succubus (1) Chapter 105: Innocent Succubus (1) He reached out to pat her head, enjoying the soft, fluffy texture of her hair. Rong pouted, swatting his hand away and clasping her head protectively. "Don¡¯t treat me like a child!" Her narrowed eyes held a mix of annoyance and indignation. She was an adult, after all. She couldn¡¯t accept being patted on the head like a child. But even as she protested, a tiny flicker of pride bloomed in her heart. She had finally been able to express her thoughts clearly, without stumbling over her words! ''See? This is just basic conversation. It¡¯s no big deal. I¡¯m growing, and casual communication like this is child¡¯s play!'' She puffed out her modest chest, looking quite pleased with herself. Shia raised an eyebrow, amused by her confidence. ''Oh? She¡¯s getting cocky now.'' "Is that so?" he mused. Shia laughed¡ªa smile that spelled uncertain fates for those involved. ''Time to increase the difficulty.'' Of course, teaching social skills alone wouldn¡¯t cut it anymore. This was the moment to bring in a partner for a more hands-on demonstration. Enter the adorably clueless elf princess, Nia. Shia turned toward Rong, his grin widening. "Communication is more than just casual exchanges. True friendship requires deeper bonds and expressions of closeness." Rong nodded earnestly, diligently jotting notes into her little notebook. She felt confident. She had already conquered the basics, and they were starting to show results. Surely, she could handle whatever came next. This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. Shia glanced at Nia, who blinked her wide, innocent eyes and tilted her head slightly, as though trying to process his words. Her adorable, naive demeanor made one want to pinch her soft cheeks. ''Closeness between friends?'' ''What does that mean exactly?'' Suddenly, a look of realization lit up Nia¡¯s face. Before Rong could react, she witnessed her supposed friend being grabbed by the spirited elf princess and pulled into an embrace. ''True closeness indeed.'' "Like this?" Nia asked sweetly, her soft, high-pitched voice filled with earnest curiosity. Her petite hands wrapped around Shia, pulling him tightly against her chest. The plush softness of her body squished against him, the "peaks" of her figure visibly compressed from the pressure. Her expression remained delightfully innocent, as if she had no clue about the overly intimate nature of her actions. To further emphasize the closeness, Nia lifted her legs off the ground and wrapped them around Shia¡¯s waist, clinging to him like a cuddly raccoon. Her sticky, affectionate demeanor was almost hypnotic in its childlike sincerity. Rong¡¯s eyes widened in shock. ''What!? This can¡¯t be right!'' Her face flushed bright red as her gaze darted between them, overwhelmed by the sight of their impossibly close embrace. ''This isn¡¯t okay!'' Even if it¡¯s between friends, there¡¯s no way this level of closeness is appropriate! Rong¡¯s heart pounded, a mix of confusion, embarrassment, and frustration swirling within her. She wanted to intervene, but words failed her. Although her training had improved her ability to express herself in calm situations, this emotional chaos left her floundering. Nia, however, seemed entirely unfazed, her wide-eyed smile growing even purer. Her innocent demeanor combined with her actions was nothing short of socially terrifying. Rong opened her mouth, her lips trembling, and after much struggle, she finally managed to speak. "T-That¡¯s¡ not what friends do!" Her voice was faint, her heart racing wildly as the words stumbled out. As the tension began to ebb, she exhaled in relief. ''Surely now Nia will let go, right?'' But Nia remained unperturbed, her voice ringing out in cheerful contradiction. "This is exactly what friends do!" she declared, her earnest tone carrying the weight of sincerity. Rong almost believed her for a moment. Nia hugged Shia even tighter, pressing her soft curves against him with innocent enthusiasm. "I like Shia so much!" she chirped, her sugary voice filled with joy. To emphasize her affection, she began to nuzzle against him, her soft, pliant body moving with playful energy. ''This level of ¡°friendship¡± was too honest.'' Rong froze, watching the intimate display in disbelief. She glanced down at herself and felt her confidence shatter. Her modest, petite frame couldn¡¯t compare. Tears welled up in her eyes as she realized she couldn¡¯t possibly replicate what she was witnessing. ''Flat princesses really can¡¯t catch a break.'' By the time Nia finished her spirited demonstration and released Shia, he looked a bit disheveled. His ears were red, and his hair slightly messy, likely from the smothering embrace. Nia turned to Rong with an eager smile, practically bouncing with excitement. "This is how you show affection between friends! Now it¡¯s your turn!" Rong felt herself turning to stone, her entire body stiffening at the suggestion. Her mind screamed in protest. ''No way! It was hard enough watching someone else do this¡ªhow am I supposed to do it myself?!'' The mere thought of being so physically close to Shia made her chest tighten. Her breath hitched as nervousness coursed through her. Nia leaned in closer, her cheerful voice becoming a playful tease. "Don¡¯t you like your friends?" "Isn¡¯t liking someone all about being close to them?" "If you want to be close, there can¡¯t be any gaps between you!" "Holding someone you like is the best feeling ever. You should try it!" Her words were relentless, each sentence chipping away at Rong¡¯s already fragile resolve. "Don¡¯t be scared¡ªjust try it. Just once, and you¡¯ll like it!" Rong¡¯s expression froze, utterly wooden. She couldn¡¯t even fathom doing something like that herself. Her mind unwillingly replayed the scene, swapping Nia¡¯s face with her own in the embrace. It was horrifying. ''How could anyone get so close to someone else?!'' Seeing Rong¡¯s shattered, lifeless expression, Shia shook his head with a chuckle. It was clear¡ªthe road to overcoming her social anxiety was still a long one. Shia¡¯s gaze shifted briefly to the bubbly elf princess buzzing around Rong like an eager little bee, chattering away with an innocent grin. Nia¡¯s youthful face and wide, guileless eyes exuded pure naivety, but Shia couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that there was a mischievous darkness lurking just beneath her surface. Chapter 106: Innocent Succubus (2) Chapter 106: Innocent Succubus (2) Meanwhile, Rong had retreated into a corner, hugging her knees as she buried her face, looking like a tragic little creature drained of all hope. The sight was so pitiful it almost tugged at Shia¡¯s heartstrings. ''Did I push her too hard?'' He considered approaching her to offer some comforting words, to ease the blow of her failure. But there was no need. Rong suddenly lifted her head, her expression resolute. "Even though I can¡¯t do it now, I¡¯ll work hard to overcome this!" She had miraculously bounced back, as if her earlier defeat hadn¡¯t affected her at all. To Shia¡¯s shock, she eagerly turned to Nia for advice. "How did you do that just now?" Her large, curious eyes sparkled as she held her notebook and pen, ready to jot down tips. Shia froze mid-step, caught between disbelief and amusement. ''A socially anxious succubus asking advice from a clueless elf princess?'' He couldn¡¯t help but worry Nia might lead her astray. Rong, however, genuinely admired Nia¡¯s ability to interact so intimately with others. For her, even the thought of casual physical contact was enough to send shivers of terror through her. In Rong¡¯s eyes, Nia was practically a goddess of social confidence. --- Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. Yet even the steadfast princess couldn¡¯t escape moments of despair. That afternoon, the training hall echoed with the sounds of sparring, accompanied by the shouts of determined girls. The practical combat class was relentless, a series of matches designed to push everyone to their limits. Rong sat on the ground, her hair drenched in sweat as she panted heavily. She had lost again¡ªbadly. No matter how hard she trained, she couldn¡¯t match the effortless achievements of her peers. Unlike the others, who had clear career paths and inherent strengths, Rong¡¯s progress felt painfully slow, no matter how much effort she poured in. The limitations of her succubus heritage loomed over her like an insurmountable wall. Her beauty masked her struggles, but the natural weakness of her kind¡ªlow magical reserves, frail physiques, and a lack of innate aptitude¡ªwas a constant obstacle. As she watched others bask in the glow of their teacher¡¯s praise, her confidence faltered. --- Later that night, under the pale moonlight... Rong stood on the rooftop, her slender figure clad in a flowing white dress. The wind teased the fabric as she gazed at the luminous moon, her thoughts heavy with melancholy. The failures of the afternoon haunted her, and a quiet sigh escaped her lips, lingering in the cool night air. She had come to the prestigious Seven Shields Academy in search of answers, hoping to carve a new path for her kind. But her efforts had yielded nothing but harsh truths and despair. The realization that there was no alternate career path for succubi weighed heavily on her heart. Lost in her sorrow, Rong didn¡¯t hear the approaching footsteps until a soft, warm blanket was draped over her shoulders. She turned her head and found Shia standing beside her. "You¡¯ll catch a cold dressed like that," he said casually. He didn¡¯t comment on her obvious sadness, nor did he pry into her thoughts. This quiet act of kindness left Rong deeply touched. If Shia had tried to console her directly, his words might have only reopened her wounds. But his silent support felt like genuine respect for her feelings. ''How¡ sly of him.'' Even the most resilient girl couldn¡¯t help but show her vulnerable side in the presence of someone so reliable. "Shia¡" "Yeah?" "Can I lean on your shoulder for a bit?" Shia didn¡¯t reply with words. He simply shifted closer, silently inviting her to rest against him. ''Lean away.'' Rong hesitated briefly before nestling against his shoulder. Shia¡¯s faint scent was comforting, his warmth a stark contrast to the cold night. His broad, sturdy frame felt like a safe harbor for her storm-tossed soul. For so long, she had borne her struggles alone, trying to remain strong. But at her core, she was still a young girl, vulnerable and in need of solace. --- She finally began to speak, her voice soft yet burdened with emotion. "I know the path I¡¯ve chosen is a difficult one, filled with thorns and obstacles." "But I didn¡¯t expect it to be this hard." "The limitations of the succubus race are just¡ too great. Weak bodies, low magical reserves, and none of the insight humans have." "I¡¯ve searched so long, tried so hard, but there¡¯s no career suited for us." "All we have is this face¡ªthis beauty that brings nothing but ruin. Nothing else." "It¡¯s as if we¡¯re born only to drown in lust and sin. Our race feels cursed by the gods, abandoned with no hope or future." Her voice trembled, her long-suppressed frustrations and sorrows spilling out into the quiet night. Though she spoke calmly, her words carried the weight of years of pain and disillusionment. The injustice of her kind¡¯s fate burned within her, but the unyielding reality left her feeling powerless. ''Why?'' ''Why must succubi bear this burden?'' Other races had their strengths¡ªdemons with immense power, humans with their ingenuity, elves with their empathy and connection to nature. Succubi, in contrast, were weak and fragile. Their beauty, a double-edged sword, only condemned them to a life of captivity and exploitation. If this beauty came at such a cost, it wasn¡¯t worth having. --- As Rong poured out her feelings, Shia listened quietly. Finally, he spoke, his tone steady and resolute. "If there¡¯s no career path for you, then why not create one yourself?¡± Chapter 106: Innocent Succubus (2) Chapter 106: Innocent Succubus (2) Meanwhile, Rong had retreated into a corner, hugging her knees as she buried her face, looking like a tragic little creature drained of all hope. The sight was so pitiful it almost tugged at Shia¡¯s heartstrings. ''Did I push her too hard?'' He considered approaching her to offer some comforting words, to ease the blow of her failure. But there was no need. Rong suddenly lifted her head, her expression resolute. "Even though I can¡¯t do it now, I¡¯ll work hard to overcome this!" She had miraculously bounced back, as if her earlier defeat hadn¡¯t affected her at all. To Shia¡¯s shock, she eagerly turned to Nia for advice. "How did you do that just now?" Her large, curious eyes sparkled as she held her notebook and pen, ready to jot down tips. Shia froze mid-step, caught between disbelief and amusement. ''A socially anxious succubus asking advice from a clueless elf princess?'' He couldn¡¯t help but worry Nia might lead her astray. Rong, however, genuinely admired Nia¡¯s ability to interact so intimately with others. For her, even the thought of casual physical contact was enough to send shivers of terror through her. In Rong¡¯s eyes, Nia was practically a goddess of social confidence. --- This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it. Yet even the steadfast princess couldn¡¯t escape moments of despair. That afternoon, the training hall echoed with the sounds of sparring, accompanied by the shouts of determined girls. The practical combat class was relentless, a series of matches designed to push everyone to their limits. Rong sat on the ground, her hair drenched in sweat as she panted heavily. She had lost again¡ªbadly. No matter how hard she trained, she couldn¡¯t match the effortless achievements of her peers. Unlike the others, who had clear career paths and inherent strengths, Rong¡¯s progress felt painfully slow, no matter how much effort she poured in. The limitations of her succubus heritage loomed over her like an insurmountable wall. Her beauty masked her struggles, but the natural weakness of her kind¡ªlow magical reserves, frail physiques, and a lack of innate aptitude¡ªwas a constant obstacle. As she watched others bask in the glow of their teacher¡¯s praise, her confidence faltered. --- Later that night, under the pale moonlight... Rong stood on the rooftop, her slender figure clad in a flowing white dress. The wind teased the fabric as she gazed at the luminous moon, her thoughts heavy with melancholy. The failures of the afternoon haunted her, and a quiet sigh escaped her lips, lingering in the cool night air. She had come to the prestigious Seven Shields Academy in search of answers, hoping to carve a new path for her kind. But her efforts had yielded nothing but harsh truths and despair. The realization that there was no alternate career path for succubi weighed heavily on her heart. Lost in her sorrow, Rong didn¡¯t hear the approaching footsteps until a soft, warm blanket was draped over her shoulders. She turned her head and found Shia standing beside her. "You¡¯ll catch a cold dressed like that," he said casually. He didn¡¯t comment on her obvious sadness, nor did he pry into her thoughts. This quiet act of kindness left Rong deeply touched. If Shia had tried to console her directly, his words might have only reopened her wounds. But his silent support felt like genuine respect for her feelings. ''How¡ sly of him.'' Even the most resilient girl couldn¡¯t help but show her vulnerable side in the presence of someone so reliable. "Shia¡" "Yeah?" "Can I lean on your shoulder for a bit?" Shia didn¡¯t reply with words. He simply shifted closer, silently inviting her to rest against him. ''Lean away.'' Rong hesitated briefly before nestling against his shoulder. Shia¡¯s faint scent was comforting, his warmth a stark contrast to the cold night. His broad, sturdy frame felt like a safe harbor for her storm-tossed soul. For so long, she had borne her struggles alone, trying to remain strong. But at her core, she was still a young girl, vulnerable and in need of solace. --- She finally began to speak, her voice soft yet burdened with emotion. "I know the path I¡¯ve chosen is a difficult one, filled with thorns and obstacles." "But I didn¡¯t expect it to be this hard." "The limitations of the succubus race are just¡ too great. Weak bodies, low magical reserves, and none of the insight humans have." "I¡¯ve searched so long, tried so hard, but there¡¯s no career suited for us." "All we have is this face¡ªthis beauty that brings nothing but ruin. Nothing else." "It¡¯s as if we¡¯re born only to drown in lust and sin. Our race feels cursed by the gods, abandoned with no hope or future." Her voice trembled, her long-suppressed frustrations and sorrows spilling out into the quiet night. Though she spoke calmly, her words carried the weight of years of pain and disillusionment. The injustice of her kind¡¯s fate burned within her, but the unyielding reality left her feeling powerless. ''Why?'' ''Why must succubi bear this burden?'' Other races had their strengths¡ªdemons with immense power, humans with their ingenuity, elves with their empathy and connection to nature. Succubi, in contrast, were weak and fragile. Their beauty, a double-edged sword, only condemned them to a life of captivity and exploitation. If this beauty came at such a cost, it wasn¡¯t worth having. --- As Rong poured out her feelings, Shia listened quietly. Finally, he spoke, his tone steady and resolute. "If there¡¯s no career path for you, then why not create one yourself?¡± Chapter 107: The Succubus Princess Offers Her Tail and Lets Me Put a Ring on It (1) Chapter 107: The Succubus Princess Offers Her Tail and Lets Me Put a Ring on It (1) Rong was confused. She raised her head, her forehead slightly flushed from pressing tightly against Shia''s shoulder for so long. The defiance and indignation in her eyes had not yet faded, replaced instead by a blank and perplexed expression. "Create... a profession?" "That''s right. The succubus race might seem weak on the surface, but they actually have an unparalleled advantage¡ªtheir beauty." But to serve others with beauty... isn''t that just the same as before? "Whether it¡¯s comprehension or magical accumulation, both can be achieved through effort, albeit with more difficulty. But beauty is innate, the most unassailable weapon." Shia smiled. "Beautiful things are fragile, and that is the prejudice of most of the world." "But weakness is the perfect disguise, allowing for engagement in various professions, whether scholarly or martial." "Scholarly, you can easily gather intelligence worldwide. With the abilities of a succubus, getting any man to willingly open up wouldn''t be difficult, right?" "In this way, you could become the most outstanding spy." "Martial, you can kill without leaving a trace." "A person might guard against a skilled fighter, but no one can maintain constant vigilance, especially when dealing with a succubus." "With nothing but charm, you could assassinate a target at any time or place, unnoticed." "By doing so, you could become a top-tier assassin. After all, who would guard against a succubus?" Rong listened in a daze, her worldview shaken, murmuring to herself, "This... this counts as a career path?" In her understanding, spies and assassins were dirty, underhanded methods unworthy of recognition. They were for those who lacked strength and resorted to deceit and evil. How could such means ever lead to anything good? And using these methods to make a living¡ªcould that even be called a profession? This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. This was Rong''s most genuine thought. Priests, knights, mages, tanks... these were the professional paths, the main occupations of students at the Seven Shield Academy. Mastering these skills was the key to finding work and integrating into society. But spies and assassins? They seemed to belong to the shadows, unfit for the light. Shia, however, was unfazed. "Why not?" "What defines a profession? What is its essence?" Shia''s voice was lighthearted yet filled with allure, drawing Rong''s attention without her realizing it. His question made Rong ponder deeply. She thought hard, but her mind was blank. She knew of the existing professions but had never contemplated their essence. After all, the current professions were already out of her reach. Shia didn¡¯t keep her guessing. "When you can excel at something to the extreme, for those who come after you, it becomes a professional choice." "You don''t want to follow the old path of the succubus, wasting away in a dreamlike haze. You want to find another way to support yourself and live openly in this world." "Whether as a spy or an assassin, these, like any other professions, are just means to acquire the resources needed to survive." "There were no professions in the beginning. The paths of professions were carved by predecessors, and later generations followed." "In essence, everyone has the same goal: to live and to live better. That¡¯s all." "You claim other races have their talents, but you forget that succubi also have their own gifts." "Beauty is far from useless; you just haven¡¯t unlocked its true potential." "These are gifts from the gods. Why do you only admire the strengths of other races while discarding your own like worthless scraps?" "There is no high or low in talent; it¡¯s all about how it¡¯s used." Rong stared at Shia, her mind reeling. It was as if a door to a new world had opened before her. She saw a broader horizon, a more vibrant world. A world different from the gloomy one she knew, one where succubi had a rightful place. Her eyes reignited with fresh flames, gleaming brilliantly. Her heart raced with excitement. She trembled uncontrollably, overwhelmed by the possibilities. What Shia taught her wasn¡¯t to seek answers from others but to forge her own path! She had been searching in vain because no one before her had walked this road. Her task now was not to force herself onto others¡¯ pre-designed paths but to create her own direction! The unknown road, daunting for its uncertainty, did not deter Rong. Though the path was thorny, success would allow succubi to break free from their current plight and even establish their own unique professions and rules! Rong was exhilarated. She looked up at Shia, her eyes sparkling like stars. In that moment, Shia¡¯s image in her mind became infinitely majestic. He was her god. --- The feeling beneath her hand was firm yet supple. It was only then that she realized she was still resting against the boy''s chest. Warm and steady, she could hear his powerful heartbeat, each thump radiating heat like a furnace. It wasn¡¯t just physical warmth but also a soothing comfort to her soul. Rong¡¯s eyes shone brighter and brighter. Her heartbeat quickened as Shia¡¯s image etched itself deeply into her heart. She was beginning to understand her feelings. Though her emotions were still shrouded in a vague mist, she could still see through it. "Shia, thank you." Her words carried weight and sincerity. She clasped Shia''s hands in hers, pressing them to her chest. If not for his guidance, she might have remained lost, unable to move forward. But his words lit a new path, transforming despair into hope. "Mm? Thank me? Shouldn¡¯t there be a token of gratitude then?" Shia raised an eyebrow playfully. He meant it as a jest, but to his surprise, the succubus princess took it seriously. She lowered her gaze, her heart in turmoil. Yes, he had helped her so much. He had taken her in, given her work, helped her overcome her social anxiety, and now pointed her to a brighter future. Rong bit her red lips gently, hesitating but eventually raising her head. She gazed at Shia, her heart pounding like a drum, and spoke her truth. "Okay." Shia froze. He had only meant to tease, to lighten the mood. Rong closed her eyes. Her succubus horns subtly emerged, and her face grew even more enchanting, radiating an otherworldly allure. In her true succubus form, she exuded an irresistible charm. She leaned closer, her lips brushing against Shia''s ear, her voice soft and shy but carrying her commitment. "Last time, I said you could ask for anything." Her trembling tone carried a seductive promise, her warm breath tickling his ear and sending shivers down his spine. Even Shia was stunned. In his ear, Rong¡¯s voice lingered. "I... permit you to put the ring on me." Behind her, a slender tail appeared, swaying gently. Shia was speechless. The sudden happiness caught him completely off guard. Rong¡¯s long lashes fluttered with nervous anticipation. Her tail swayed lightly, waiting for his touch, yet no movement came. She didn¡¯t dare open her eyes and instead spoke with a hint of frustration. "I... I¡¯ve gathered my courage! Are you going to make fun of me now?" Chapter 108: The Succubus Princess Offers Her Tail and Lets Me Put a Ring on It (2) Chapter 108: The Succubus Princess Offers Her Tail and Lets Me Put a Ring on It (2) Shia finally snapped out of it, his lips curling into a broad smile. He removed the enchanted ring and grasped her tail firmly in his hand. The sensation was slippery and resilient. Just a light squeeze revealed its elasticity and smoothness¡ªan incredible texture! Shia couldn¡¯t help but marvel. The last time he had touched her tail was during her heat, but that was simply to restrain an unruly "cat." He hadn¡¯t taken the time to savor the experience. This time, however, with her explicit permission, the touch was entirely different. Rong''s lashes trembled more violently, her face flushed with crimson, and a soft moan escaped her lips. It was the first time her tail had ever been touched¡ªespe cially by a man. The sensation was... Her breathing quickened, her voice carrying a commanding tone, "Hurry up!" If he continued at this teasing pace, she wasn¡¯t sure what might happen to her. Out of gratitude for Shia and in alignment with her own feelings, Rong had resolved to let him place the ring on her tail. But his slow, deliberate actions and suggestive comments were too much¡ªtoo embarrassing! Shia looked down and met her shy, flustered gaze. Their eyes locked, and Rong felt as if she had been struck by lightning. She quickly turned her face away. Shia, observing her bashful charm, smiled faintly. He took out the ring and moved it closer to Rong¡¯s tail. As soon as the enchanted ring made contact with her tail, it automatically reshaped itself.Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author. It fit perfectly around the heart-shaped tip of the succubus princess''s tail, forming a brand-new, elegant adornment. Her long, seductive tail now bore a shimmering silver light, striking yet perfectly harmonious. It felt as if it had always belonged there. Throughout the process, soft, irresistible whimpers escaped Rong''s throat. Her voice was sweet and tender, laced with an innocent allure. Rong bit her lower lip, her cheeks burning. At this moment, she could no longer care about the strange sounds she was making¡ªher entire focus was on the sensations emanating from her tail. A succubus¡¯s tail was the most vulnerable and sacred part of their body, their ultimate weak spot. To willingly allow a man to touch it carried a significance that was far from ordinary. It meant handing over her most sacred vulnerability into someone else¡¯s hands. As the sensations coursed through her, Rong¡¯s watery eyes grew even more misty and alluring. She looked up at Shia, her gaze brimming with emotion. Despite the coolness of the night, the two nestled together felt a rising warmth between them. The atmosphere was just right. The distance between them had already been minimal¡ªclose enough to hear each other¡¯s heartbeats. Rong''s glossy eyes became hazy, drunk under the moonlight¡¯s spell. Their faces drew closer, so near that they could feel each other¡¯s breaths. Even Rong''s breathing grew cautious, as if afraid that exhaling too loudly might shatter this delicate moment. Her eyes closed again, her flushed face inching nearer, closer still. Just as their lips were about to touch, a sudden noise broke the silence below. The abrupt sound startled Rong out of her daze. She pulled back as if shocked by electricity, putting some distance between them. Her cheeks remained a vibrant red, her eyes still misty, as she wrapped herself tightly in her blanket and turned toward the source of the sound. Standing at the rooftop door was Nia, leaning lazily against the wall with her hand propping up her chin, watching them with amusement. Under the full moon, it was as if she were spectating a romantic play¡ªone that was incredibly entertaining! Rong¡¯s gaze darted around, and the realization of what had just transpired hit her like a wave. Someone had seen them! **Ahhhhh!** Her heart was in full-blown panic, like a chicken running wild in her chest. She was utterly mortified. How had she let herself get so carried away? And worse¡ªNia had witnessed it all. Surely, she¡¯d tease her endlessly! How could such a private, shameful moment be seen by someone else? Her social anxiety had never encountered a situation of this magnitude, and she was overwhelmed with embarrassment. Especially when she saw Nia¡¯s innocent expression, as if a mischievous child had caught her doing something wrong. It was unbearable. "I-I-I..." Rong stammered for a long time, failing to come up with an excuse. In the end, there was only one option: **run!** --- Wrapped in her blanket, she bolted like a gust of wind past Nia. Now, the rooftop was left with only Shia, still perched on the railing, and Nia, who stared at him with her usual clueless expression. Nia blinked, her innocent look unchanged, though beneath it lay a subtle hint of envy. Her ability to hear people¡¯s thoughts had exposed her to countless dirty truths. Yet the bond she had just witnessed was pure and untainted. A helpful human boy and a shy succubus girl¡ªtwo seemingly unrelated individuals finding a connection in this academy. The purer the emotion, the more precious it seemed. The cautious exploration, the mutual sincerity¡ªit was like gazing at a rare treasure. How could she not feel envious? But for her, such emotions were an unattainable luxury. Her envy quickly transformed into playful teasing. "My, my, Shia. Feeling unwell, are you?" Shia looked slightly flustered, his hidden feelings uncovered. Despite Nia being someone he was close to, he wanted to escape the situation. "Do you also yearn for a love like that? Need my help?" Her teasing tone persisted, embodying the image of a mischievous older sister. As her innocent expression hid her mischievous nature, Nia opened her arms wide toward Shia. "Master Shia, I¡¯d like some private time too." Her face remained innocent, but her eyes glimmered with a playful light. Her words teased both Rong and Shia equally. But was Shia the kind to be easily embarrassed? No, his thick skin made him nearly impervious. Even after being caught in such an intimate moment, he remained unfazed in the face of the elf princess¡¯s mischief. Chapter 109: The Succubus Princess Offers Her Tail and Lets Me Put a Ring on It (3) Chapter 109: The Succubus Princess Offers Her Tail and Lets Me Put a Ring on It (3) Meanwhile, Rong had retreated to her room at lightning speed. Her blanket flew into the air before floating gently back down. The bedspread was already scattered, forming a lump where she had hidden herself. Her upper body was buried under the covers, but her lower half remained exposed. Her tail wagged enthusiastically, the ring on it gleaming faintly under the moonlight. When the ring had been placed on her tail, it had immediately copied itself. Shia ran his fingers over the charm ring in his hand. The previously cheap-looking novice ring now seemed to emit a silvery radiance, carrying an air of mystery. With this, Shia successfully unlocked the first seal of the charm ring. The prerequisites for his hidden profession were finally taking shape¡ªit was time to begin! The charm ring¡¯s interface had already undergone a transformation. Previously, it only displayed the affection levels of the female protagonists. Now, it began to reveal detailed personal skill profiles. Blacksmithing, brewing, carving, alchemy, cooking, horsemanship... Twelve life skills, all at a standardized Level 8¡ªmaster tier across the board! Such a high level of life skills, if revealed, would undoubtedly leave countless people in utter shock. It was common knowledge that while cultivators generally held higher social status than ordinary people, mastery of life skills could bridge that gap. Mastering even a single life skill to the level of a grandmaster ensured a comfortable life, even for those unable to cultivate. To elevate two or even three life skills to level eight was already considered a rare talent. But for Shia, who had maxed out all twelve life skills at the grandmaster level, it was the pinnacle of human achievement. This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report. This mastery was Shia''s true confidence and his most dazzling brilliance. However, Shia wasn¡¯t content with this accomplishment. His gaze shifted to the ends of the progress bars. These progress bars, which should have been maxed out, now bore the "?" symbol of a game-like interface. This was the terrifying power unlocked by the first layer of the Prime Creation artifact. Every month, it could forcibly advance any of the wielder''s life skills by one level! For an ordinary person, ten months would suffice to max out a single life skill¡ªfrom level zero to the cap. For Shia, whose twelve life skills were already at grandmaster level, it meant that within a year, all his skills could reach their theoretical maximum. And what did "max level" mean? At the pinnacle, Shia¡¯s horsemanship skill wouldn¡¯t just allow him to master existing mounts¡ªit would give him the potential to ride beings like the Dragon Princess or even true gods. Who said horsemanship was limited to taming conventional mounts? If one''s imagination held no bounds, who in the world couldn¡¯t be ridden? And that was just one maxed-out skill. The implications for his other life skills were unimaginable. But let¡¯s not get ahead of ourselves¡ªback to the main point. --- In the world of Seven Shields, whether it was combat systems or life skills, all were established by the gods. Combat skills existed to filter apostles who would fight for the gods. But few knew the sinister truth: the life skills system was a complete scam devised by the gods. For mortals, level eight was the limit. No matter how much effort one poured into honing life skills, breaking beyond level eight was impossible. The pathway from level eight to the mythical level nine simply didn¡¯t exist¡ªit lacked any logical foundation. The concept of "max level" was a mere illusion, a trick of the gods. Without a framework or rules, it was a castle in the sky¡ªnothing to stand upon. This was why all of Shia¡¯s skills, capped at level eight, displayed their progress bars as full. For mortals, level eight was the ceiling. The so-called "max level" was nothing more than a cruel joke by the gods. It amused them to watch mortals chase after something that didn¡¯t exist, a futile pursuit of the unattainable. But this sadistic game had a fatal flaw¡ªone even the gods hadn¡¯t foreseen. Shia¡¯s lips curled into a knowing smile. Most holy relics were created by gods, their power confined within divine boundaries. But what if something existed beyond the gods'' comprehension? The Prime Creation artifact was just that¡ªa relic transcending divine knowledge. It was the condensed essence of the world''s primal structure, a true artifact of origin that existed beyond the constraints of the gods. The charm ring in Shia''s possession was one such Prime Creation artifact. With it, Shia could break free from the limitations imposed by divine rules, turning conceptual impossibilities into tangible realities. For instance, while a conventional holy relic, like a river god¡¯s artifact, could control rivers within natural law, a Prime Creation artifact could elevate its wielder to control rivers as a conceptual entity¡ªincluding the Milky Way itself. The charm ring, upon unlocking its first layer, could transform the mythical concept of "max level" life skills into reality. By transcending divine laws, materializing abstract concepts, and weaving logic into existence, the ring allowed its user to manifest fantasy as truth. This was a realm even the gods couldn¡¯t fathom. What was once a fraudulent notion¡ªthe idea of a "max level" skill¡ªcould now become Shia¡¯s ultimate truth. This was the essence of the Dreamer¡¯s power: transforming fantasy into reality, creating one¡¯s own truth. It was akin to forging a personal world, complete with treasures that belonged solely to its creator. Fantasy and reality intertwined, earning the Dreamer their name. --- Cultivation traditionally involved comprehending and mastering laws, gathering authority, and ascending to divinity. The cultivation system was designed as a structured path to godhood, a straightforward yet arduous road. The obstacles and hardships along the way were known only to those who walked it. Understanding laws and mastering them required immense perception. The more laws mastered and the greater their proficiency, the closer one came to consolidating divine authority and acquiring a godhood. At that stage, a cultivator was no longer a god¡¯s follower but an equal, capable of standing alongside the divine. Eventually, such a cultivator could stake their claim among the gods, becoming one themselves. But Shia wasn¡¯t interested in this conventional route. As a Dreamer, he aimed to bypass the process entirely, creating his own laws and ascending to a throne of imagination. The stronger his laws became, the greater his power grew. His first step was to utilize maxed-out life skills to challenge the established reality, crafting the embryonic form of his own truth. Sounds convoluted? Simply put, by using max-level life skills, Shia could induce changes in the world, altering people¡¯s habits and perceptions. The more he influenced others¡¯ beliefs, the faster he could consolidate his authority as a Dreamer.
A Special Thank You!: I want to extend my deepest gratitude to [Andrew], for supporting me on Patreon!Chapter 110: The Sword Saintess Has Androphobia Chapter 110: The Sword Saintess Has Androphobia So, the question arises: among the twelve life skills, which should be upgraded first? The answer, without hesitation, is brewing. Shia made the decision without a second thought. With his extensive experience in game completion, he knew that brewing was the most efficient, labor-saving, and far-reaching choice for spreading influence. The universal appeal of fine alcohol made it an easy win across all races. Different races had varying lifestyles, talents, and preferences. However, good alcohol was the universal language¡ªbeloved by all, from nobility to commoners. In this world, brewing techniques were still primitive. They consumed a significant amount of grain and produced only average taste and yield. But as a transmigrator, Shia possessed knowledge of distillation techniques. Coupled with his max-level brewing skills, he could create a transformative change. By spreading this innovation, he could establish the foundation of a new truth and unlock the Dreamer class. The "Brewing" skill on the Charm Ring''s interface darkened as he selected it, and the "+" button turned slightly. The brewing skill leveled up to 9. At the instant he maxed out the skill, concepts materialized into reality. The skies trembled, and elemental waves rippled chaotically. For a fleeting moment, the entire world fundamentally changed. Sadly, the transformation lasted only an instant¡ªso brief that most people didn¡¯t notice, not even the gods. The impact wasn¡¯t significant enough, but Shia wasn¡¯t disappointed. Seeing the "Hidden Class Unlock Pending" marker on his interface, he smiled in satisfaction. With his skill level sufficient, the next step was to combine max-level brewing with distillation techniques and spread it widely. Shia immediately got to work, acquiring distillation equipment and preparing to revolutionize the brewing industry. --- The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. Distillation devices didn¡¯t exist in this world. Many items he needed hadn¡¯t even been invented yet. Fortunately, Shia¡¯s blacksmithing skills were also at a master level. No distillation equipment? Then he would craft his own. Transparent and heat-resistant containers made from Winter Crystals? Bought! Top-tier blacksmithing tools? Of course, he needed the best¡ªbought! Exquisite dew from the Elven Kingdom, perfect for brewing? Bought! ... ¡°These, these, and these¡ªI¡¯ll take them all!¡± After all, he wasn¡¯t spending his own money, so why hold back? Thanks to Lilith¡¯s little treasury, he could gather these resources with ease. Otherwise, obtaining them would have been a challenge. The gold stored in the Black Card was enough to sustain Shia until his first batch of brewing was complete. If Lilith found out about his extravagant purchases, she¡¯d likely be heartbroken. After all, it was her money¡ªher hard-earned money! Initially, he had claimed he needed funds to buy an elf, draining Lilith¡¯s treasury dry. Despite getting the elf for free at an underground auction, he never returned the money. Lilith, preoccupied with wooing the Elven Princess, had completely forgotten about it. Even if she remembered now, it was too late. Shia had already spent it all. --- After a busy morning, Shia stood in the basement, admiring the completed setup. Satisfied, he clapped his hands. Indeed, having money made everything easier. He silently "thanked" his fianc¨¦e, the Mary Sue-esque heroine, for her contributions¡ªfor a whole second. Now, all that was left was to wait for the distillation process to finish and begin brewing. Adding a little Windflame Fruit juice during brewing could enhance the richness of the flavor. While not everyone would like it, those who enjoyed strong alcohol would love it. Shia stepped out of the villa to continue his shopping spree. --- The Alinge Villa District was picturesque, with significant space between each villa. The area was filled with birdsong, blooming flowers, and an enchanting atmosphere enhanced by carved magical arrays. Shia strolled through a garden, enjoying the scenery. Unbeknownst to him, his figure caught someone¡¯s attention. On the terrace of a villa with a bluish hue, a pure and sacred figure stood silently. As she gazed at the young man walking through the courtyard, her brows furrowed. Her lips were a soft cherry pink, her delicate nose petite and lovely, and her smooth, almond-shaped face was no larger than the palm of a hand. Golden hair, gently curled, spilled over her shoulders, partially veiled by a white, translucent headscarf. The sunlight bathed her locks in a soft golden glow, and the breeze gave her an ethereal air. However, her eyes were covered, adding a layer of mystery to her already divine appearance. Her white dress, reminiscent of a wedding gown, had a curved strapless design. Her voluptuous figure strained against the fabric, revealing a deep, enticing cleavage that concealed a pendant nestled between her full breasts. The dress had intricate cutouts at the sides, exposing patches of her smooth, snow-white skin. The breeze lifted the hem slightly, revealing glimpses of her shapely, luscious thighs. A golden belt hung loosely around her slender waist, adorned with a trailing ribbon that swayed gracefully in the wind. Her entire appearance exuded a goddess-like aura, a beauty that could overshadow the divine. This golden-haired woman stood poised, her sword resting lightly at her hip. Her expression, however, was cold and distant. Despite her elegant and mature charm, there was an undeniable disdain in her posture as she gazed in Shia¡¯s direction. Why was there a man here? Her brow furrowed further. This villa district was famously known as the "Goddess''s Secret Garden," a haven strictly off-limits to men. Now, this sacred space was tainted by an unfamiliar male presence. Her full, luscious lips tightened into a line, her expression clearly showing displeasure. This wasn¡¯t directed at Shia personally¡ªher disdain stemmed from a deep-rooted androphobia, a reflexive rejection of all men. --- Meanwhile, as Shia was engrossed in his brewing endeavors, the succubus princess avoided him like the plague. The moment he returned home and opened the door, the succubus maid, who had been tidying up, darted away as if she had seen a ghost. Shia paused, baffled. Was that really necessary? For a moment, he doubted himself. Was he truly such a villain, a menace to innocent women? Despite the breakthrough in their relationship a few days ago, Rong had reverted to her socially anxious self, avoiding him at all costs. Previously, she could at least speak to him normally. But now, after their intimate interaction, she seemed even more terrified than before. It was as if she wanted to put an entire world between them. If not for the limited space in the living room, Shia suspected she¡¯d flee even farther. This had been going on for three days. Two days ago, the scene had been the same. Rong clutched her broom tightly, retreating to a corner and busily cleaning to avoid eye contact. Though Shia found her behavior unnecessary, he understood. A socially anxious girl caught in such an intimate situation would naturally be embarrassed. He figured she¡¯d come around eventually. Preoccupied with brewing, Shia decided to give her space.
A Special Thank You!: I want to extend my deepest gratitude to [Lehigh], for supporting me on Patreon!Chapter 111: Rong Is Teased by Her Wicked Master (1) Chapter 111: Rong Is Teased by Her Wicked Master (1) Rong¡¯s hurried footsteps echoed as she fled. Though she was ostensibly cleaning, her movements resembled a desperate escape. Once out of sight, she leaned against a wall, peeking to ensure Shia wasn¡¯t following. Only then did she breathe a sigh of relief. Turning around, she suddenly found herself face-to-face with Nia''s curious gaze. Rong froze. Why was Nia here?! Her face turned pale as she forced a stiff smile to greet the girl. Holding her broom tightly, Rong felt a growing sense of unease, as if she¡¯d forgotten something important. What was it? Her thoughts raced until her eyes met Nia¡¯s. A sudden flash of memory struck her. That day on the rooftop, Nia had seen her¡ªher true form as a succubus. Looking at the flustered and self-conscious Rong, who was nervously stumbling over her words, Nia''s innocent face broke into a gentle smile. She opened her arms and pulled Rong into a warm hug. The succubus maid, who had been sulking in the corner, suddenly found herself enveloped in softness. Her cheek pressed against an impossibly plush, warm chest that seemed to radiate comfort and kindness. "Don¡¯t be sad, little Rong~! I still like you~!" Nia cooed, her voice brimming with sincerity. "You¡ you don¡¯t mind¡" Rong¡¯s voice trembled as she whispered, "That I¡¯m a succubus? The kind everyone despises?" She looked up, her wide, watery eyes meeting Nia¡¯s beautiful yet youthful face. If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. Nia responded by gently pressing Rong¡¯s head deeper into her chest, a move that left the succubus overwhelmed by a soft, sweet scent that seemed to soothe her very soul. "Of course not~! I even think your true form is cuter!" Nestled against Nia¡¯s generous chest, Rong couldn¡¯t help but feel touched. Though their relationship might resemble that of rivals, Rong realized she had found a second friend¡ªsomeone else who didn¡¯t care about her succubus lineage. Tears of gratitude welled up and spilled down her cheeks as she buried her face deeper into Nia¡¯s warm, pillowy embrace. The faint, milky scent grew stronger, wrapping around her like a safe, comforting cocoon. ''Why¡ why are they so big?!'' --- Meanwhile, Shia found himself increasingly excluded. The maid Rong and the elven slave Nia had become inseparable best friends, always by each other¡¯s side. Gone were the awkward silences and tense moments between the socially anxious succubus and the innocent elf. Instead, Shia¡ªtheir former centerpiece¡ªwas now the odd one out. Today, however, was different. Nia wasn¡¯t around. Rong, still cautious, huddled in a corner of the living room, meticulously sweeping the same patch of floor for the sixth time. Shia sighed. This situation couldn¡¯t go on. He had assumed Rong¡¯s awkwardness would pass in a day or two. But it had been three days, and not only had things not improved, but she had also started clinging to Nia, avoiding her master entirely. It was both frustrating and exasperating. Now, with Nia out, Shia saw the perfect opportunity to break the ice. He sat on the sofa and waved Rong over. "Come here," he said, his tone calm but firm. Rong didn¡¯t budge. Shia decided to start a conversation. "How¡¯s your progress with your new class?" he asked casually. Rong¡¯s grip on her broom loosened slightly, her wary expression softening just a bit. But she still didn¡¯t move, instead sitting stiffly at the far end of the sofa, her body tense as if ready to flee at any moment. Her lips parted, but her voice was so faint it was almost inaudible. Shia frowned. "Hey, I know you haven¡¯t wanted to see me lately, but this is important. We¡¯re talking about your class progress. You¡¯re sitting so far away I can¡¯t even hear you properly!" He patted the seat next to him. "Come sit here." Rong clung to her broom, her body growing even more rigid. Shia¡¯s expression darkened. "As your master, I command you to sit here and talk with me!" Rong hesitated, biting her lower lip. Her mind wavered, but in the end, her trust in Shia won out. ''He¡¯s right. This is just to communicate better. My class progress is important. My class progress is important¡'' Rong repeated this mantra in her mind, slowly inching closer. The moment she got near, however, Shia acted. With a quick motion, he wrapped an arm around her slender waist and pulled her into his lap. Rong gasped, instinctively trying to wriggle free, but Shia held her firmly against him. Their bodies pressed together intimately, leaving no space between them. Rong¡¯s face turned crimson as she stammered, "Y-you¡ you¡¯re¡ this is too much!" Before she could fully protest, Shia¡¯s hand found her succubus tail, which had unconsciously appeared due to her heightened emotions. The instant his fingers wrapped around her soft, sensitive tail, Rong froze. Her body went limp, a soft whimper escaping her lips. Shia smirked in triumph. "Gotcha," he murmured, squeezing the tail lightly. Rong¡¯s cheeks turned a deep shade of pink, her watery eyes filled with helplessness. Her horns emerged from her forehead, and her whole body trembled as she sank deeper into his hold. Tears threatened to spill as she whimpered internally, ''He¡¯s so mean¡ why is he doing this to me?'' Completely at Shia¡¯s mercy, Rong¡¯s earlier wariness melted away. She curled up in his lap, her soft, warm body pressing against him. Her flushed face, delicate features, and faint, shaky breaths painted an irresistibly vulnerable picture. The sunlight streamed through the windows, illuminating the luxurious living room. Shia leaned back on the sofa, enjoying the intoxicating mix of the succubus¡¯s scent and the softness in his arms. The atmosphere was peaceful, almost idyllic. His hand idly stroked Rong¡¯s hair and tail, savoring the sensation. Her petite frame was impossibly soft, embodying the succubus¡¯s signature allure. Despite her initial resistance, Rong eventually relaxed completely. Her half-hearted struggles ceased as she surrendered to the warmth and comfort of his embrace. ''It¡¯s so warm¡ so safe¡'' she thought, feeling a strange contentment. Rong closed her eyes, resembling a docile kitten, snuggling into Shia¡¯s chest. chapter 112: Rong Is Teased by Her Wicked Master (2) chapter 112: Rong Is Teased by Her Wicked Master (2) As she relaxed, her thoughts returned to the earlier conversation. Though she had found a direction for her class, the road ahead was still fraught with challenges. Creating a new class was no small feat. A class represented a complete and logical system of rules, with gods typically serving as the initial pioneers. For Rong to forge a completely new class meant she had to establish a coherent system from scratch¡ªa monumental task with no precedent, no guidance, and no mentors. "Assassins," she murmured softly, "have never been treated as a formal class¡" In the simplest terms, different professions have their unique skill trees. Other professions¡¯ skill trees have already been explored and refined¡ªpeople know what to level, what to train, and the direction to aim for success. But in Rong¡¯s case, she needed to create a new skill tree from scratch. Everything was uncharted territory. She had to experiment, research, and ultimately piece together the best combination for an assassin class. Though rare, there were precedents for success. But as previously mentioned, those who created new professions were gods¡ªthe first practitioners of these paths. Every individual who succeeded in crafting a new profession was at the level of a god. After several days of research, Rong¡¯s hope began to wane. ¡°There hasn¡¯t been¡¡± she murmured, her voice trailing off, ¡°a single normal person who managed to create a profession before.¡± ¡°The God of Clerics, Jacob, created the cleric profession. The God of Swordsmen, Hill, is one of the strongest gods¡¡± ¡°I¡¯ve searched through so many records but found barely anything useful.¡± Even with her determination, comparing herself to gods left Rong feeling dejected. She couldn¡¯t help but doubt herself, her confidence shaken.This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. ¡°You¡¯ve already done so much,¡± Shia said, his voice tinged with surprise. His absolute trust in her was unwavering¡ªhe didn¡¯t doubt for a second that Rong could create a new profession. ¡°But I don¡¯t even know where assassins need to focus their training,¡± Rong replied hesitantly. ¡°This is just the beginning,¡± Shia said with a smile. ¡°You think gods created professions? I believe they became gods because they created professions. ¡°I believe in you. One day, your name will stand among the gods!¡± Shia¡¯s tone was so sincere, his confidence so unshakable, that it filled Rong with warmth. He didn¡¯t need to offer her advice; he just needed to instill her with the confidence to believe in herself. After all, this was her personal growth arc in the game. Creating a unique profession for the succubus race was her destined path. As a seasoned player, Shia knew what the endgame for a succubus assassin looked like. However, guiding her too early would only stunt her growth. Without his input, Rong would still find the path on her own. If he intervened too much, would she be capable of solving future challenges independently? Rong was talented¡ªher lack of confidence stemmed only from her upbringing. If she lacked confidence, Shia would give it to her. All he did was nudge her toward this path a little earlier. --- Rong looked up at Shia, her heart pounding in her chest. Her soft, flushed cheeks and sparkling eyes reflected a deep sense of gratitude. ¡°Master, thank¡ um, thank you,¡± she stammered, her voice breaking slightly. Shia chuckled softly. ¡°Do we really need to say ¡®thank you¡¯ between us?¡± His warm, gentle smile made Rong¡¯s heart feel full. For a moment, she smiled brightly. But just as quickly, her expression wavered, her mind blanking out as she frowned in confusion. Her soft voice returned, shaky and uncertain. ¡°I¡ I have to say it. If it weren¡¯t for you, I wouldn¡¯t have even dared to think¡¡± Rong¡¯s words came out haltingly, but she persisted in expressing her gratitude. Shia, however, didn¡¯t reassure her. He was the reason behind her flustered state. With a mischievous smile, his not-so-innocent hand subtly played along her tail. Rong felt her mind swirl in confusion. Her gratitude toward Shia was sincere¡ªhe had given her both guidance and encouragement. Though she wanted to carve out a unique path for succubi, she couldn¡¯t shake her insecurities. Still, despite the high probability of failure, she was determined to try. Her mind was filled with doubt and helplessness until Shia stood firm in his belief that she could succeed. This unwavering trust came from the person right in front of her. --- As Rong felt the heat spreading across her body, she noticed something unusual. The warmth of his touch lingered even after Shia removed his hand. She felt oddly disappointed when the contact broke. ¡°Master, is¡ is this something improper?¡± she wondered to herself. But no, he was only encouraging her, wasn¡¯t he? Then why¡ why did she feel so flustered? ¡°If there¡¯s anything you need my help with, you must tell me,¡± Shia said warmly. ¡°We¡¯re friends, right? We should help each other.¡± Rong¡¯s eyes shimmered with emotion. ¡°I-I don¡¯t even know how to thank you,¡± she mumbled, her voice trembling. Her body felt as if it were melting. Why was this happening? She instinctively wanted to resist. But looking at Shia¡¯s earnest expression, his gentle and reassuring smile, Rong froze. Her body¡¯s discomfort came from him, but he had been so kind to her. ''Was it accidental? Or intentional?'' If it was an accident, she shouldn¡¯t feel this way. If it was intentional¡ but he was only encouraging her. Rong¡¯s thoughts tangled, her face flushed with confusion and helplessness. Her pale hands gripped Shia¡¯s clothes as she stared blankly ahead. ''I can¡¯t think clearly.'' ''How can someone be so kind and yet so wicked at the same time?'' Should she feel grateful, or should she be angry? Her jumbled emotions only made her more endearing¡ªmaking her an even easier target for mischief. --- Just then, a voice interrupted. ¡°Am I intruding?¡± The sudden sound startled Rong, who immediately buried her face in Shia¡¯s chest, trembling like a frightened kitten. Her soft, warm body stiffened in his arms as she squeezed her eyes shut, silently praying, ''You can¡¯t see me. You can¡¯t see me¡'' Diana stood at the door, casting a glance at the huddled Rong before letting out a low chuckle. Her deep, magnetic voice carried an air of seductive confidence, perfectly embodying the image of a true succubus. By comparison, the shy, stuttering Rong seemed almost laughable¡ªa far cry from the alluring temptress she was supposed to be. Chapter 113: The Dark Goddess’s Maternal Strategy and the Belated Love Conflict (1) Chapter 113: The Dark Goddess¡¯s Maternal Strategy and the Belated Love Conflict (1) Shia patted Rong¡¯s back soothingly, his gaze turning helpless as he looked at Diana. ¡°Headmistress, it¡¯s been a while since you¡¯ve graced us with your presence, and the first thing you do is break into my house?¡± ¡°What are you talking about? Visiting someone isn¡¯t breaking in,¡± Diana replied, her tone playful as she casually seated herself next to Shia. With a mischievous smile, she reached out to tease the "little kitten" in his lap. Shia glanced at the alluring figure who had appeared so suddenly in his home, inwardly sighing. Her long black hair was tied up with a crimson hairpin, and she wore a tight-fitting, black slit gown that exuded dark magic. The slit on the side revealed her plump thighs wrapped in black stockings, while a fiery red rose adorned her chest. The combination of the rose, her crimson eyes, and the hairpin enhanced her mature and seductive beauty, making her allure almost overpowering. The moment Diana¡¯s hand touched Rong, the timid succubus immediately bristled, leaping out of Shia¡¯s lap in panic. Her legs gave out, and she nearly stumbled. Diana couldn¡¯t hold back her laughter. Rong¡¯s face flushed an even deeper red as she shrank to the far end of the sofa, doing her best to become invisible. Diana, however, wasn¡¯t particularly interested in Rong. Her focus remained on the young man before her. ¡°I¡¯ve been incredibly busy lately,¡± Diana said with a playful smile, flipping her hair over her shoulder and tidying the loose strands that had fallen across her chest. The motion drew attention to her deep, heaving cleavage, now unobstructed and even more visually striking. Rong¡¯s eyes widened in awe, unable to look away. She forgot her shame and stared, as though her heart had taken a critical hit.This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings. ''This isn¡¯t even a comparison anymore¡ªthis is a level I can only revere!'' Even among the succubi, her queen might not match this level of magnificence. Her gaze was filled with admiration, longing, and envy. ''Such a gap... there¡¯s no room for self-pity because we¡¯re not even in the same realm!'' Still, the pain of inadequacy lingered. --- ¡°Yes, I¡¯m deeply touched,¡± Shia replied flatly, his voice devoid of emotion. ¡°Good, so do you feel my love for you?¡± Diana purred, her crimson eyes shimmering with playful allure. She leaned closer, the subtle vibrations of her movements sending tremors Shia couldn¡¯t ignore. Sitting so close, Shia was acutely aware of the overwhelming presence of her ample chest. Keeping his face steady, he responded, ¡°Yes, I feel it.¡± The next moment, he felt it much more intimately¡ªDiana pulled him into a suffocating embrace. The weight of her chest overwhelmed him, her unique scent filling his senses as the world around him faded away. When Shia finally emerged, gasping for air, his face was red from the ordeal. He refrained from using his usual escape tactics to avoid startling the socially anxious Rong. ¡°You¡¯re so ungrateful,¡± Diana said, playfully pinching his cheeks. Her hands lingered, enjoying the softness of his face as she leaned even closer. Her alluring voice dropped to a seductive whisper. ¡°Just call me ''Mama,'' and I¡¯ll prepare anything you need~!¡± Her tone was soft and coy, but her voice carried a magnetic power that could make even a saint waver. Unfortunately for Diana, Shia¡¯s resolve was unshaken. ¡°I prefer earning my own way,¡± he said firmly. Diana wasn¡¯t upset by his rejection. ¡°Such a driven little succubus,¡± she mused, her smile teasing. ¡°To fight against your nature takes immense willpower.¡± ¡°But willpower alone isn¡¯t enough for this path,¡± she continued, her tone turning serious. ¡°If you try to figure it out on your own, it might take decades before you even find a starting point.¡± ¡°However, if you just call me ''Mama,'' I¡¯ll solve all your problems. Every single one of them.¡± She turned her attention to Rong, flashing a radiant smile. Despite having stayed out of sight, Diana clearly knew everything about Shia¡¯s recent activities. Rong froze under Diana¡¯s gaze, unable to move. ''Why is the Headmistress smiling at me?!'' Rong was so nervous that she hadn¡¯t even registered Diana¡¯s words, her mind solely focused on the movement of her crimson lips. Her attempt to force a smile failed miserably as her anxiety grew. ''She¡¯s so overwhelmingly strong¡ it¡¯s terrifying!'' Shia, of course, was steadfast in his refusal. His concerns about Diana¡¯s intentions had been clear from the beginning. While having the favor of a dark goddess might seem beneficial, the "maternal love" she offered was suffocating in the extreme. His face was still tinged with redness from her earlier embrace, and he had no intention of accepting more. ¡°I refuse,¡± he said firmly, his tone brooking no argument. Though he sympathized with Diana¡¯s tragic backstory¡ªher unfulfilled desire for familial love¡ªhe wasn¡¯t about to put himself in harm¡¯s way. --- ¡°Are you sure?¡± Diana said sweetly, wrapping an arm around his shoulders and pulling him close. Her ample chest pressed against him, deforming under the pressure and squishing his face in the process. ¡°I already have a lead,¡± Shia replied, his voice muffled by the oppressive softness. Even so, he didn¡¯t relent. Diana gazed at Shia with a look of disdain, sizing him up and down with obvious contempt. ¡°Pfft!¡± Then, right in front of Shia, she pulled out her phone and made a call. ¡°Freeze Ella''s access to the database.¡± As someone who obsessively tracked all of Shia¡¯s movements, Diana naturally knew exactly who he had turned to for help. Ella, Shia¡¯s fianc¨¦e Lilith¡¯s mentor, had known Shia even before his enrollment. Now, as teacher and student, they shared a close relationship and had been spending quite a bit of time together recently. The young man before her was a regular guest at Ella¡¯s house. His confidence came from relying on Ella to dig up some specific information, didn¡¯t it? As the academy headmaster, Diana needed only a word to cut off Ella¡¯s access. So, right in front of Shia, she brazenly abused her authority and blocked Ella¡¯s permissions. Hanging up the call, she smugly glanced at Shia, openly flaunting her misuse of power. I know your ways in, and I can block every single one of them. What now? Chapter 114: The Dark Goddess’s Maternal Strategy and the Belated Love Conflict (2) Chapter 114: The Dark Goddess¡¯s Maternal Strategy and the Belated Love Conflict (2) In the Office The elegant and dignified widow, Mrs. Ella, was flipping through a grimoire. This magical tome was the terminal linking all the Seven Shields Academy¡¯s intelligence data stations. In her capacity as a mentor, she was helping Shia investigate scattered intelligence related to assassins. Assassins, as an undefined role, weren¡¯t yet a recognized profession, so finding relevant information was like searching for a needle in a haystack. The largest database Rong had ever accessed was merely the academy¡¯s library, which contained only a tenth of the knowledge stored within Seven Shields Academy. But the grimoire in Ella¡¯s hands could, with sufficient permissions, access any data she wanted. Ella was thoroughly engrossed in her search, but the information was sparse and difficult to locate, making it an arduous task. Why was Ella so painstakingly assisting Shia? Well, she had no choice¡ªShia had earnestly pleaded with her yesterday, leaving her with no room to refuse. Ella¡¯s mind couldn¡¯t help but drift back to last night¡¯s scene. Unlike his usual impish demeanor, he had been so genuine, so passionate. The warm atmosphere between them carried a hint of tantalizing heat. His earnest appeal had been irresistible. A blush crept onto Ella¡¯s delicate cheeks as her pinky finger curled slightly. Who could say no to such a fervent and sincere young man? Ella, being ever so soft-hearted, had agreed the moment Shia asked her for help. Ahem, yes, purely because she was a kind and accommodating person. Even now, her body felt languid and tender, her fingers unconsciously brushing against her neck. As her fingertips made contact, her skin seemed to recall the sensations of the previous evening. It was as if every bone in her body had been thoroughly massaged, leaving her in a state of utter relaxation. Ella bit her lip gently. The slight pain jolted her out of her reverie, bringing her back to the present. Shaking her head, she pushed away the intrusive memories.Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit. She had work to do. Daydreaming about such things was out of the question. Regaining her composure, Ella resumed her search. But suddenly, all the text on the grimoire vanished. Stunned, she flipped through several pages, only to find nothing but blankness. Was the grimoire malfunctioning? Impossible! Though students had limited access, as an academy mentor, Ella had one of the highest levels of clearance, granting her access to nearly 80% of the data. Yet now, she couldn¡¯t retrieve anything. Ella, unwilling to believe it, infused her magic into the grimoire. [Access Denied!] The bright red alert box left her stunned. Something was definitely wrong. Upon further inspection, she discovered that her permissions had been revoked by none other than the headmaster herself. But why? Although the headmaster was her superior, she had never interfered in trivial matters like this before. The headmistress¡¯s secretary, tasked with relaying Diana¡¯s orders, noticed Ella¡¯s bewildered look and hesitated before passing on the message. ¡°The headmaster said that any information you want will be conveyed to those who need it. You don¡¯t need to trouble yourself with searching.¡± The secretary found the statement strange¡ªit didn¡¯t seem as if the headmaster held a grudge against Ella. But why restrict her permissions? Ella clenched her fists, her elegant body trembling slightly as a chill spread through her. Everything had been going smoothly until the headmaster, with a single move, disrupted her plans. That goddess of a woman! How could she... Thinking back to the headmaster¡¯s fondness for Shia, Ella¡¯s heart ached. She had hoped to use this opportunity to solidify Shia¡¯s respect for her. After all, her authority within the academy was far-reaching. She had helped Shia find what he wanted. Surely, he¡¯d hold her in high regard for that, right? But now, that was no longer possible. Ella wore a wistful expression, her disappointment evident as she walked away. It was rare for the little rascal to need her, to depend on her, and yet she couldn¡¯t follow through. Why did the headmaster have to meddle? That was the question lingering in the teaching director¡¯s mind, and Ella was equally perplexed. The mere thought of Diana''s intervention filled her with unease. She had always harbored a deep apprehension toward the headmaster. More importantly, Diana¡¯s authority far exceeded her own. A mentor¡¯s clearance was higher than a student¡¯s, but as the head of the Seven Shields Academy, Diana had absolute control. The 20% of information Ella couldn¡¯t access was exclusively under Diana¡¯s dominion. If the headmaster wanted to know something, she could find it effortlessly. If Diana provided the assassin information to Shia directly, Ella¡¯s value would be entirely undermined. And if that happened, her efforts to uncover clues to resurrect her husband would be interrupted again. The elegant widow stopped in her tracks. Her pearly teeth bit down on her crimson lips, her soft, captivating eyes gazing into the distance. On the surface, she appeared to be admiring the view, but in reality, her mind was racing. She needed to find a way to regain control. She couldn¡¯t continue to be this passive. She had to seize the initiative. --- Inside the Villa After hanging up the phone, Diana was visibly delighted, her radiant joy written all over her face. Tossing her phone aside carelessly, the gorgeous and slightly smug beauty tilted her chin arrogantly. ¡°Well, what now? Looks like you can only come crawling to me!¡± Like a mischievous child, her tone was filled with playful teasing, as if she were fishing for compliments. Even though Shia had some inkling of Diana¡¯s capricious nature, he hadn¡¯t expected her to pull something like this. He was completely dumbfounded. What else could he do now? Shia sighed, helpless but willing to play along. Turning slightly, he leaned in, burying his face in something warm and soft. ¡°My dear, beloved, most amazing headmaster, won¡¯t y ou help me out?¡± Chapter 115: The Dark Goddess’s Maternal Strategy and the Belated Love Conflict (3) Chapter 115: The Dark Goddess¡¯s Maternal Strategy and the Belated Love Conflict (3) Though pretending to be familial was out of the question, a bit of playful begging came easily to him. The young man nuzzled and rubbed his head against her chest, an affectionate and almost childlike gesture, as if asking his mother for a treat. Nestled against the headmaster¡¯s ample bosom, Shia raised his gaze, his big, sincere eyes looking up at her. His expression brimmed with earnestness. Diana¡¯s face lit up instantly, her smile blossoming. His coaxing had thoroughly charmed her. ¡°Alright, alright! I¡¯ll help you! Whatever you want, you¡¯ve got it!¡± This little rascal¡¯s antics were utterly endearing. The more she saw him as a child, the stronger her maternal instincts grew. Shia was satisfied as well. He flashed Diana a bright smile. Was it embarrassing to sweet-talk the big sister figure into giving him what he wanted? Not at all. After all, if I¡¯m the one benefiting, why should I feel embarrassed? Diana, thoroughly won over, acted generously. She pulled out a thick stack of documents and shoved them into Shia¡¯s hands. ¡°Here you go, everything you wanted.¡± The assassin-related information was indeed scattered. Even after a morning of searching, Ella hadn¡¯t managed to find anything useful. That was despite her targeted search in the Seven Shields Academy database. But Diana? She had already compiled everything neatly. Even the scattered pieces of information were meticulously organized. This was the privilege of high-level access. Shia looked at the hefty stack of documents in his hands, then at the smug, elegant black-haired beauty. It was clear she had been waiting for him to seek her out. Well, having a powerful ally sure made things easier. Shia marveled internally before sincerely expressing his gratitude. He began flipping through the documents. The information was indeed practical¡ªdetails on assassin-related skills, such as high-impact techniques and optimal combat strategies, as well as essential abilities like stealth, endurance, and agility.The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. With these materials, an initial assassin skill tree could be outlined. Of course, systematizing the profession still required considerable effort, but it provided a clear direction for future learning and development, maximizing efficiency. Shia handed the documents to Rong. ¡°Here, these should make your research much easier.¡± But Rong refused. Instead of accepting them, she stepped back, her gaze filled with a mix of guilt and pity. Though she didn¡¯t have the courage to interfere, she had witnessed the interaction between Shia and Diana. The thought of Shia obtaining these materials in such a way made her uneasy. How was this any different from what succubi endured? Rong¡¯s goal in creating a new profession for succubi was to escape this very predicament. Shia extended the documents toward her again, but his patience was waning. He stood up, closed the distance between them, and firmly placed the documents in her hands. ¡°Take them. These are invaluable.¡± Rong clenched her fists, still resisting, her red-rimmed eyes and pouty lips betraying her frustration. ¡°I want to create this profession on my own terms, with my own hands.¡± Her gaze shifted to Diana, sitting elegantly on the sofa, and a hint of wariness and hostility flashed in her eyes. Why should she have to accept something obtained this way? Why should her closest friend have to sacrifice himself for this? It was too much! Shia chuckled softly, reaching out to gently pat Rong¡¯s head. ¡°For you, it doesn¡¯t matter what I have to do. These were hard to get¡ªdon¡¯t let my efforts go to waste.¡± Rong bit her lip, deeply moved. In that moment, Shia seemed almost heroic to her. For me, he¡¯s willing to go this far? Her heart raced, a fiery sensation spreading through her. Looking into Shia¡¯s warm, smiling eyes, she felt completely captivated. Her resistance faltered. Slowly, she accepted the documents, clutching them tightly, her fingers trembling slightly. This naive succubus had no defense against Shia¡¯s tender persistence. Falling for his charm was inevitable. He¡¯s sacrificed so much for me. How could I let that go to waste? Rong resolved to fully utilize the materials, striving to establish the profession as quickly as possible. It was the least she could do to honor his dedication. --- Meanwhile, Diana, ever observant, sipped her tea with amusement. She had overheard everything¡ªnot by eavesdropping, but by listening openly. Watching the emotional succubus and the seemingly innocent boy, who showed no guilt for manipulating her, she found the scene thoroughly entertaining. How shameless! Deceiving such a naive girl like this. But she didn¡¯t expose Shia¡¯s ploy. She actually admired his brazen attitude. This boy was proving to be endlessly amusing. Diana couldn¡¯t help but imagine how delightful it would be to keep him around. Just as the trio was caught in their respective moments, a figure appeared on the stairs leading from the second floor. Long golden hair cascaded down to her ankles. Her small, delicate feet, clad only in white stockings, touched the cold floor. Her youthful, innocent face carried a slightly dazed expression, as if she were easily fooled. Dressed in a loose nightgown, Nia exuded an air of relaxation. She held her stomach, descending the stairs step by step. ¡°Hungry¡ hungry¡¡± Nia¡¯s voice was soft and groggy, like she had just woken up. Why was it so late, and still no lunch? Her voice drew the attention of everyone present. Nia blinked, looking at the boy and girl sitting closely together, confusion evident on her face. Huh? Isn¡¯t Rong avoiding Master Shia lately? Why are they getting along now? Wait, wasn¡¯t there someone else here too? A guest? If there¡¯s a guest, why delay lunch even more? Nia turned her gaze to the unexpected visitor, her eyes first catching a pair of crimson ones. The alluring, mature beauty sitting elegantly on the sofa looked strangely familiar. Wait, why were her eyes sparkling like that?
A Special Thank You!: I want to extend my deepest gratitude to [NaTaS], for supporting me on Patreon!Chapter 116: The Dark Goddess’s Maternal Strategy and the Belated Love Conflict (4) Chapter 116: The Dark Goddess¡¯s Maternal Strategy and the Belated Love Conflict (4) Diana stared at the dazed golden-haired elf in front of her, her eyes lighting up with excitement. At the same time, the image finally registered in Nia¡¯s brain. Her blank expression instantly changed, but unlike Diana¡¯s exhilaration, Nia¡¯s eyes filled with fear. Why is she here? Why is ''she'' here?! The same question popped into their heads, but their emotions couldn¡¯t have been more different. Clearly, these two knew each other. It wasn¡¯t unusual for Nia to recognize Diana; after all, Diana was the headmaster of Seven Shields Academy. But the tension between them stemmed from a rather complicated history that couldn¡¯t be ignored. Nia, being one of the most exceptional third-year students, was someone Diana had taken special notice of. In fact, Nia was another one of Diana¡¯s ¡°potential children.¡± Although Nia, even in her innocence, had sensed the danger of such a proposal and outright rejected it, she¡¯d experienced firsthand how relentless this clingy "big sister" could be. ¡°Nia~! What a surprise to see you here!¡± Diana¡¯s voice was filled with delight. ¡°Stay back!¡± Nia shouted, her tone dripping with alarm. Before Diana could move closer, Nia had already darted behind Shia, using him as a shield with startling speed. Every time Diana moved left, Nia would move right, and vice versa. The entire scene resembled a game of tag, but with Diana¡¯s ''ample assets'' pressing uncomfortably close to Shia, who couldn¡¯t help but notice how ''pleasantly soft'' the contact felt. ¡°Nia, come here and give Mama a hug! I¡¯ve missed you so much~!¡± Diana cooed playfully. ¡°Stop calling yourself my mama! I¡¯m not coming over!¡± Nia retorted, her voice trembling. Diana smirked mischievously. ¡°By the way, Nia, what are you doing in a ''human male¡¯s house'' all alone?¡± You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author. Nia¡¯s lips tightened, refusing to answer. Seeing her reluctance, Diana casually leaned against the table, her tone turning slightly threatening. ¡°Hmm¡ I wonder what your ''strict aunt'' on the council would think about this situation?¡± Diana teased, a sly grin spreading across her face. ¡°You know how rigid and proper she is. She wouldn¡¯t approve of her precious niece being here, would she?¡± Diana clicked her tongue mockingly, her crimson eyes glinting with amusement. ¡°Oh dear, Nia, you wouldn¡¯t want her finding out, would you?¡± Nia¡¯s expression faltered, and her half-hidden face showed clear signs of worry. The image of her stern, commanding aunt flashed through her mind: glasses with golden frames, sharp eyes that seemed to pierce through lies, and an air of unyielding authority. If her aunt found out¡ Nia shivered. Suddenly, being Diana¡¯s ¡°child¡± didn¡¯t seem so bad. Sure, Diana was overly affectionate and a little scary, but she seemed well-meaning¡ right? Nia bit her lip, deep in thought, while Diana watched her eagerly, her excitement building. ''Just say yes already!'' Nia seemed on the verge of caving, but then her light-green eyes flared with resolve. Her long golden hair turned silver in an instant, and her timid demeanor vanished. Nia¡¯s other self¡ªconfident and assertive¡ªhad taken over. ¡°You won¡¯t tell my aunt,¡± she declared with a proud tilt of her chin, her voice dripping with defiance. Seeing the silver-haired version of Nia, Diana¡¯s excitement only grew. ''Two personalities in one girl? Twice the fun! Twice the children!'' But Nia wasn¡¯t about to back down. ¡°You and my aunt are sworn enemies, aren¡¯t you? You wouldn¡¯t talk to her voluntarily,¡± she scoffed, mimicking Diana¡¯s earlier click of the tongue. ¡°And even if you did, why would she believe you?¡± Her cheeky retort was downright rude, but Diana didn¡¯t mind. Instead, she pouted theatrically. Her plan to intimidate Nia had failed, and now she could only watch as her ¡°potential child¡± slipped out of her grasp. So close¡ just so close. Sensing the tension, Shia quickly intervened to diffuse the situation. ¡°Are you hungry? It¡¯s already past lunchtime. Why don¡¯t we all eat? No matter what, a guest is still a guest, so let¡¯s try my cooking,¡± Shia offered, turning to Diana for the last part. He desperately needed to shift the strange atmosphere before things spiraled further out of control. After all, nothing couldn¡¯t be solved at the dinner table, right? Or so he thought. --- Nia clutched her stomach, clearly still hungry from earlier. Diana, meanwhile, was reminded of Shia¡¯s previous hospitality and couldn¡¯t help but swallow her anticipation. Clearing her throat, Diana straightened up, assuming her dignified headmaster persona. ¡°I don¡¯t mind, but as young people, you shouldn¡¯t skip meals. It¡¯s important for your growth,¡± she said, a hint of smugness still in her tone. The dining table was soon laden with delicious dishes, but neither Nia nor Diana¡ªnor even Rong, who had joined them¡ªseemed particularly interested in the food. ¡°Come on, don¡¯t be shy. Sit down and eat,¡± Shia urged, breaking the silence. But his attempt to lighten the mood failed miserably. Nia clung to his side, practically draping herself over him to claim the seat closest to him. Meanwhile, Rong tried to grab the other side but was beaten to it by Diana, who had already positioned herself next to Shia. Her ''ample chest'' nearly knocked over the plates on the table as she leaned in. Rong sighed, biting her lip in frustration, and reluctantly took the seat opposite Shia. She cast him a forlorn glance, her feelings of helplessness evident. Diana rested one arm on the table, turning slightly to face Shia with a soft smile. ¡°It¡¯s always best to eat next to you, little one. Just looking at your face makes the food taste better.¡± Shia forced a laugh, feeling like he was sitting on pins and needles. Was this really his first life crisis? As if to push things further, Diana gracefully picked up a piece of food and held it to his lips. ¡°Open wide, ah~!¡± she cooed, her voice dripping with maternal affection. Meanwhile, Nia, who had been tense the entire time, could no longer hold back. The sight of Diana so shamelessly cozying up to Shia was unbearable. She shoved a bowl of soup in front of Shia, blocking Diana in the process. ''This big-breasted woman is ''so'' annoying!'' Wanting to bully ''me'' was bad enough, but now she¡¯s trying to seduce Master Shia? Over my dead body!
A Special Thank You!: I want to extend my deepest gratitude to [Brother VBlood], for supporting me on Patreon!Chapter 117: The principals Open-Toe Heels Ambush; The Arrogant Maid Only Likes the Young Mistress Chapter 117: The principal''s Open-Toe Heels Ambush; The Arrogant Maid Only Likes the Young Mistress (1) "Before eating, have some soup first¡ªit''ll warm your stomach and nourish your body." After speaking, Nia sat directly between the two of them. After displaying her care, Nia shot Diana a sidelong glance. Hmph, you think I''ll let you get close to him?! It was as if she feared Shia would be sullied by Diana¡¯s touch. The provocative glare couldn¡¯t have been more obvious. Shia: ¡ Being squeezed wasn¡¯t exactly painful, but calling it uncomfortable might be dramatic. This was a sweet burden! But it wasn¡¯t just a battle between these two women. During the silver-haired princess¡¯s ¡°guarding her master¡± showdown, Rong was making her own move. Did you think she was merely capitalizing on Nia¡¯s absence to secure a seat next to Shia? Not even close. Perhaps influenced by the tense atmosphere between Nia and Diana, Rong, normally shy and reserved, uncharacteristically let go of her inhibitions and boldly perched herself on Shia''s lap. Being a maid, wasn''t it her duty to serve her master closely? Her logic short-circuited, leading to this explosive move. Rong was visibly nervous, her body tense as she made a conscious effort to soften her demeanor. Nestled into Shia¡¯s embrace, she gently picked up food with her chopsticks, bringing it to his lips. "Master, let me serve you your meal~." To act this boldly in front of everyone? Even Shia couldn¡¯t help but doubt if this was still the socially anxious succubus maid he knew. This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it Rong was under duress too! Even as an introvert, she had to fight for her friendship (or so she convinced herself)! Meanwhile, Nia positioned herself squarely between Shia and Diana, effectively pushing Diana away. Rong had already claimed the prime spot, even resting her flawless legs wrapped in white stockings on a nearby chair, making it clear Diana wasn¡¯t allowed near. The two besties exchanged smug glances. ''Hmph, you want to steal our man in our territory?'' Even the alluring principal seemed momentarily outmatched. With a resigned shrug, she took a seat opposite Shia. Her exquisite face held a faint trace of loneliness, as if she¡¯d given up. This left more than enough space for her massive assets to rest comfortably. A crushing defeat! Think the awkward girls had won? Wrong. That was just an illusion. Under the table, a black-silk-covered foot silently launched a stealth attack. Public displays of affection? Child¡¯s play. As an experienced, mature woman, Diana knew exactly how to exploit the situation. Leaning on the table with one hand propping up her delicate face, she held chopsticks in the other, appearing disinterested in the feast before her. Her bust, however, pressed provocatively against her arm, their perfect roundness distorted just enough to add an irresistible allure. Nia & Rong: So indecent! She¡¯s using ''that'' to seduce Master! Under the table, her black-silk-clad legs crossed elegantly, exuding an intoxicating sweetness of a woman in her prime. Her languid charm radiated knowingly, and Shia got an unexpected demonstration of the allure of an older woman as her open-toe high heel made deliberate contact. Shia¡¯s body tensed unnaturally. This was too much. Faced with the seduction of a goddess-like presence, he was powerless to resist. The two inexperienced girls, completely oblivious to the under-the-table battle, continued basking in their supposed victory. Diana¡¯s brow arched slightly, a sly smile playing at the corners of her lips. Her lips moved subtly, saying words only Shia could decipher. "Promise to be my darling boy, and I¡¯ll spare you~." Shia gritted his teeth, suddenly empathizing with Nia¡¯s plight when she¡¯d been similarly cornered. Except this method of coercion was leagues apart. Knowing the cost of becoming a goddess¡¯s chosen one, Shia wasn¡¯t about to agree. But the situation was pushing him to his limits. Just as he was on the verge of breaking, an uninvited guest burst onto the scene. The blonde young lady arrived with the intent of courting the elven princess, but as soon as Lilith approached the courtyard, the mingling fragrances of multiple women filled her nose. Lilith paused, her delicate nose twitching as her eyes lit up. She¡¯d known moving here would bring her closer to beautiful women! Now that she was here, how could she pass up the opportunity? Lilith, abandoning any pretense of restraint, began banging on the door. "Shia, open up! It¡¯s me~." Her voice dripped with sweetness, practically oozing honey. To Diana, though, it sounded cloying and insincere. Instantly losing interest, Diana appeared somewhat displeased. The principal, a master of spaNial magic, had no interest in dealing with a bothersome pest. With a wave of her hand, a portal appeared, and she disappeared into thin air. Before leaving, however, she leaned in close to Shia and planted a kiss on his lips, ensuring the two young girls witnessed it clearly. The light touch was brief but struck like lightning, leaving the two girls in stunned silence. Turning away, Diana chuckled to herself. "Poor little fools. They didn¡¯t even notice they¡¯d lost the war." Rong and Nia exchanged wide-eyed, defeated looks, staring at the now-closed portal with a sense of helplessness. "She¡ she¡ she doesn¡¯t play fair!" Especially after realizing Diana had stolen a kiss right under their noses, they could only gaze at Shia with pity, as if mourning the loss of his purity. Rong felt tears welling up. "I couldn¡¯t protect Master¡" Nia¡¯s gaze held more sympathy. Poor thing! Shia: ¡ "Why are you looking at me like that?" No one responded, only maintaining their looks of pity. "It was just a kiss! Come on, it¡¯s not that serious!" But their expressions made him question whether something more had happened without his knowledge. Wait¡ even if something more had happened, wasn¡¯t he the one at a disadvantage?! Lost in thought, Shia scratched his head, unable to shake the odd sensation. In their shared distress, everyone seemed to forget about the persistent knocking at the door. Meanwhile, Lilith, still locked out, grew increasingly anxious. Inside were not one but multiple beautiful women! Like a thief staring at a treasure trove yet unable to enter, she decided to force her way in. "Bang!"
A Special Thank You!: I want to extend my deepest gratitude to [catinabox], for supporting me on Patreon!Chapter 118: The principals Open-Toe Heels Ambush; The Arrogant Maid Only Likes the Young Mistress Chapter 118: The principal''s Open-Toe Heels Ambush; The Arrogant Maid Only Likes the Young Mistress (2) The door swung open, catching everyone¡¯s attention. Lilith plastered on what she thought was her most charming smile. "Hello, everyone!" Her nose twitched frantically. Wait, three distinct scents? But only two women? Scanning the room, Lilith tried to pinpoint the source of the third fragrance but found nothing. Diana, of course, was long gone. She hadn¡¯t come to steal Shia but to redirect the focus away from herself¡ªand she succeeded spectacularly. Though she couldn¡¯t find the mysterious third beauty, Lilith remained undeterred. "Why are you all eating such plain food? Shia, I¡¯ve given you so much allowance¡ªwhy aren¡¯t you taking better care of us?" Sliding into the seat next to Nia, Lilith¡¯s sharp eyes caught the change in her hair. The rumored golden-haired gentle elf could transform into a silver-haired warrior. The silver-haired elf was just as stunning! Having learned from past experiences, Lilith maintained a safe but intimate distance. "Shia doesn¡¯t know how to care for you properly because I wasn¡¯t thorough enough in my instructions." "Why don¡¯t you move into my place? I¡¯ll make sure the maids treat you well." ''This inflammatory chaos, stirring up trouble so blatantly in front of everyone! This woman dares to undermine us right under our noses.'' Nia shot Lilith a sharp glare, her gaze practically brimming with killing intent. Rong also turned her eyes toward Lilith, her stare unfriendly and accusing. ''What the hell was this woman saying?'' This meal was personally prepared by their master, and now Lilith was waltzing in with criticism, trying to paint Shia as inadequate? This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience. All their frustration and helplessness from dealing with the academy Principal, Diana, suddenly redirected toward Lilith. Yet, Lilith wasn¡¯t done with her antics. Her whole strategy seemed designed to suppress and demean Shia while simultaneously elevating her own image. She criticized Shia for not doing enough, blamed her own lack of oversight for his supposed negligence, and painted herself as the considerate, caring one in this scenario. The goal? To boost her reputation and win favor. But her approach backfired spectacularly. "Who allowed you in here?" Nia¡¯s voice was ice-cold. Lilith¡¯s smile faltered for a moment but quickly returned. "I¡¯m Shia¡¯s fianc¨¦e, of course! Senior, we¡¯ve met before, haven¡¯t we? Don¡¯t be so distant~." She added a pitiful expression, her doe-eyed look full of innocence, as if she were the victim. "This is my home too, after all." Nia¡¯s reply was as cutting as it was calm. "Oh, your room is outside. Dogs aren¡¯t allowed to barge in uninvited." Her expression remained blank, but her tone was merciless, as if channeling her mistress¡¯s ruthlessness. The original conflict¡ªDiana¡¯s bold kiss right in front of them¡ªwas momentarily forgotten as Lilith¡¯s blatant intrusion and attempts to sabotage Shia infuriated them. How could they tolerate such behavior? The two girls immediately redirected their firepower, uniting against the external enemy. Nia¡¯s gaze swept Lilith from head to toe with undisguised disdain before delivering the most savage line of the night. "And who the hell are you to criticize him?" Lilith froze in place, her expression shattered like glass. The critical hit left her utterly speechless. "Ha!" A laugh broke the tense atmosphere. Everyone turned toward Shia, who was visibly struggling to hold back his laughter. "Sorry, I couldn¡¯t help it." Ever since Tia had followed the young mistress inside, Shia had subtly positioned himself right behind her Shia looked entirely too at ease, his body subtly pressed against hers. The others¡¯ attention was focused on him, so no one noticed Tia¡¯s reddened face as she bowed her head to hide her embarrassment. Her silver hair fell forward, obscuring her expression, but beneath the table, her skirt shifted unnaturally. Shia¡¯s mischievous actions hadn¡¯t stopped, his hand boldly making its way beneath her dress. Caught off guard by Lilith¡¯s inflammatory behavior, Shia couldn¡¯t resist retaliating in his own way, taking out his frustrations on Tia. Tia, however, was doing everything in her power not to give herself away. This was in front of ''everyone''! Did he have no sense of shame?! Her head slightly turned, her eyes shooting Shia a warning glare. But Shia met her gaze with a disarmingly sincere expression, his voice low enough for only the two of them to hear. "Your mistress made a mistake. Isn¡¯t it only fair for you to make up for it?" Tia¡¯s mind went blank, her eyes losing focus. To avoid further embarrassment, she turned her face downward, staring at the floor with a mix of shame and indignation. ''Don¡¯t let the mistress notice¡ Don¡¯t let anyone notice¡'' Tia repeated these thoughts in her mind, forcing herself to endure. Behind her, Shia let out a soft chuckle before raising his voice, his tone smooth and unbothered by Lilith¡¯s earlier provocations. "We¡¯ve almost finished eating. Nia, why don¡¯t you entertain our guest? Rong, could you clear the table and clean up the dishes?" His composed and authoritative demeanor made him seem like a proper master of the house. Even though her ego had taken a hit, Lilith saw this as an opportunity to restore her image. Straightening her posture, she turned toward Nia. "No need to trouble anyone else, Tia can handle it. My people are your people, after all. Don¡¯t hesitate to ask for help." Tia, still flushed from Shia¡¯s actions, nodded stiffly, her posture somewhat awkward as she clasped her thighs tightly together. "Understood," she replied softly. Finally free from Shia¡¯s torment, she let out a small sigh of relief as she gathered the dishes and headed toward the kitchen. Meanwhile, Rong moved to prepare tea at Shia¡¯s request, shooting Lilith a glance of distaste but following his orders without complaint. The three girls relocated to the sitting room, taking positions at three different corners. Lilith¡¯s original intention had been to cozy up to the elven princess, but Nia¡¯s frosty demeanor made that impossible. Nia couldn¡¯t hide her aversion. Lilith¡¯s slightest attempt to get close was met with sharp, piercing glares. Yet, even this rejection seemed to delight Lilith. ''She¡¯s looking at me~!'' What Lilith failed to notice was that Shia hadn¡¯t joined them. Not that it would¡¯ve mattered to her. In the kitchen, Tia finished putting away the dishes and turned, only to come face-to-face with Shia. Startled, her heart skipped a beat, but she quickly forced herself to remain calm. "Shia," she began, "we need to talk. You need to recognize reality." Tia couldn¡¯t let something like that happen again. It was time to clear up the misunderstandings. Chapter 119: The principals Open-Toe Heels Ambush; The Arrogant Maid Only Likes the Young Mistress Chapter 119: The principal''s Open-Toe Heels Ambush; The Arrogant Maid Only Likes the Young Mistress (3) "Shia, let¡¯s have a proper talk, shall we?" Her face was icy, her gaze filled with condescension as if she were looking down on an unworthy subject. Leaning casually against the kitchen doorframe, Shia crossed his legs and tilted his chin slightly, his relaxed posture a stark contrast to Tia¡¯s lofty demeanor. Without waiting for his response, Tia launched into her speech. It wasn¡¯t so much a conversation as it was a one-sided, domineering declaration. "Last time was just a misunderstanding. You¡¯d better adjust your attitude." "My loyalty lies with the young mistress; you have nothing to do with it." "Don¡¯t bother me again in the future." "And now, you can leave." After delivering her piece, Tia didn¡¯t even pause to hear Shia¡¯s response. Her eyes, filled with disdain and disgust, regarded him as if he were nothing more than filth. It was as though their roles had reversed, and she was now the one in control. Shia raised an eyebrow, his expression amused. Was this "the sassy maid" making a comeback? Had she forgotten his ability to put her in her place? He didn¡¯t move to leave, instead casually flicking his fingers as if he had all the time in the world. "Oh? Speaking to me like that? Did someone forget how they were begging last time?" His tone was slow and teasing, laced with a hint of mockery. Tia¡¯s mind immediately conjured the stormy night she desperately wanted to forget. Her face paled, her composed fa?ade crumbling as panic flickered in her eyes. "What¡ what are you trying to do?" The sharp question died on her lips as her gaze darted toward the door, her voice dropping several notches. "I¡¯m warning you. Don¡¯t try anything, or I won¡¯t hold back." Shia¡¯s smirk deepened. You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author. "If I remember correctly, it was you who called me that time, wasn¡¯t it?" "And didn¡¯t I tell you long ago to remember your place?" He stepped forward, closing the distance between them. "Is this the attitude a maid should have toward her master?" Tia¡¯s nerves were already frayed, and the sudden proximity made her flinch and step back. "Is this how a maid is supposed to act?" He advanced another step. Tia¡¯s mind was spinning, memories of that night overwhelming her. Her legs trembled and nearly gave out beneath her, though she stubbornly tried to hold her ground. But the narrow kitchen left her nowhere to retreat. After just a few steps, her back hit the counter behind her. Shia seized the moment, firmly gripping her shoulders and turning her around, pressing her against the counter with ease. Tia¡¯s panic surged. A dreadful feeling of foreboding filled her chest. His hand held her down, forcing her forward. Her silver hair fell over her shoulder, swaying as she struggled. Her hands instinctively braced against the counter, but Shia¡¯s grip was too strong. Her wrists were quickly captured and pinned behind her back. Shia pressed Tia''s body down with even more force, his dominance leaving her with no room to escape. Enveloped by his presence, Tia''s overwhelming sense of disgust surged uncontrollably, her feelings of defiance blazing in her eyes despite the panic etched across her face. She refused to crumble, her proud and unyielding spirit shining through even in such a vulnerable position. Even in this vulnerable position, she radiated the cold dignity of an untouchable ice queen. Shia leaned in close, his breath warm against her ear, his voice low but cutting. "You think I¡¯m interested in you? Don¡¯t flatter yourself. This is just payback for your young mistress." Tia froze. Her body stiffened as his words hit her like a bucket of ice water. His breath tickled her ear, warm and unsettling, but it did nothing to stop the chill spreading through her. Shia chuckled softly. "Let¡¯s not forget¡ªyou wanted revenge on her too. We¡¯re just using each other, aren¡¯t we?" Revenge on the young mistress. Yes, that had been her thought. But why was Shia seeking revenge as well? Her gaze shifted toward the sitting room, where she could see through the glass window. The golden-haired young mistress, with her radiant curls and flawless beauty, was fawning over someone else. Even though the recipient of her attention wore a frosty expression of impatience, the young mistress remained enthusiastic. Tia¡¯s heart ached as something inside her crumbled. It wasn¡¯t the first time she¡¯d witnessed such a scene, nor the first time she¡¯d known. But seeing it again, the bitterness and betrayal weighed heavily on her. She had given so much, been so loyal, and this was what she got in return? "Umm" A soft sigh escaped her lips, the sound tinged with resignation. Her defiance dimmed, and a shadow seemed to grow in her eyes. Noticing her struggles had ceased, Shia grinned. From the sitting room, Lilith¡¯s attention was caught by a faint sound from the kitchen. She turned her head toward the slightly open sliding door. From her vantage point, she could only see a corner of the kitchen. Tia was standing by the table, a cloth in one hand as she tidied up. But something seemed off. Why was she swaying slightly, as though unsteady on her feet? Despite her active imagination, Lilith couldn¡¯t bring herself to connect the dots to anything inappropriate. To her, it just seemed¡ odd. "Tia, are you okay?" Tia raised her head, her watery eyes meeting Lilith¡¯s. They were brimming with unsaid words as she slowly shook her head. Lilith¡¯s concern deepened. "Are you sure? You don¡¯t look well. Are you feeling sick?" It was just light housework¡ªwhy did Tia look so frail and unsteady? Panic rose in Tia¡¯s chest. If the young mistress came over to check on her, everything would be exposed! But Lilith didn¡¯t approach, though her concern was genuine. Tia¡¯s heart swelled with emotion. The young mistress ''does'' care about me! Look, she¡¯s worried about me. Her lips trembled as she lowered her head, her voice shaky but audible enough for Lilith to hear. "Young mistress, I¡ I¡¯m fine. I¡¯ll be okay soon." Her words were so heartfelt that she nearly teared up. Lilith, still feeling uneasy, kept staring at Tia for a while longer. Once she was sure that everything seemed fine, she finally turned her head back. And Tia continued taking care of Shia. Tia¡¯s blush deepened, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. Her grip on the table tightened, her knuckles white as her body shook. To Lilith, the matter seemed resolved. Tia might have looked unwell, but she appeared capable of managing. For Lilith, it was a win-win situation¡ªshe received gratitude and devotion from Tia with minimal effort, all while having Shia around as a buffer to help her connect with other beauties. Even as Lilith continued her flirtations, she remained blissfully unaware of just how much she had already lost. Chapter 120: Confident Comeback of the Madam, Daring Moves in a Crowded Office? (1) Chapter 120: Confident Comeback of the Madam, Daring Moves in a Crowded Office? (1) Unlike the lively atmosphere of the villa, Ella''s little courtyard was much quieter. Her long purple hair cascaded down casually, and her simple and loose dress hugged her figure lightly. Her long, shapely legs, wrapped in black silk stockings, crossed elegantly as she sat on a yoga mat. One hand rested on the white marble table, while the other held a cup of tea, savoring it slowly. But she hadn¡¯t taken a sip for a long while, instead lost in deep thought. Ella was reflecting on her recent experiences. From the moment Shia approached her requesting admission to the academy, to his recent plea for her assistance in investigating assassins¡ªa request that resulted in the headmistress blocking his access. The crisp sound of porcelain meeting marble snapped her out of her reverie. Ella¡¯s expression turned serious as she realized something¡ªshe had been letting that brat lead her by the nose all along! Thinking back to the headmistress, Ella felt no resentment now, only gratitude. If not for her intervention, Ella might have taken a long time to wake up. She made up her mind: it was time for a change. She would showcase her mature womanly charm and reclaim control of the situation! In terms of experience and knowledge, she should never have been so easily suppressed. Especially considering their natural dynamic. Shia was a student, and she was his teacher. It was only right for a teacher to educate her student. A plan quickly formed in her mind. Within moments, Ella had everything figured out. She stood up and walked to the mirror, adjusting her long hair and neckline. In the mirror, a dignified and elegant woman stared back, her eyes gleaming with resolve. Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation. "Do you think you can control me so easily now?" The corners of her lips curved slightly upward, exuding confidence. "This me is no longer the me you can toy with." "Address me as the advancing madam!" Ella raised her chin slightly, her gaze growing more disdainful. She could already envision Shia being completely dominated by her. Confidence¡ªit was her main weapon now. --- That day, Shia was summoned to the office again. Ella wore a white blouse, leaving two buttons undone to reveal a hint of her fair skin. Her voluptuous breasts stretched the fabric tightly, radiating an overwhelming allure. Her black A-line skirt perfectly accentuated her slender waist and the curves of her luscious hips. Coupled with black silk stockings and heels, her purple hair swept entirely behind her back, she embodied a seductive yet authoritative look. Shia noticed the change immediately. Today¡¯s Ella, with her provocative teacher roleplay, was something else entirely. In the office, the faint scratching sound of pen on paper echoed. Not far from Ella''s desk, a teacher was busy grading papers. Elsewhere, a few other teachers were resting, scattered about. Ella had deliberately chosen this time to ensure other teachers were around, guaranteeing Shia wouldn¡¯t dare act recklessly. "Shia, although the academy¡¯s management is lenient, it doesn¡¯t mean you can waste your time. You¡¯ve been skipping classes a bit too often lately, haven¡¯t you?" Ella¡¯s voice was cold, magnetic, and sharp, her reprimand cutting without mercy. She exuded the dignity of a teacher, appearing proper and stern. A teacher grading papers glanced up, her gaze briefly falling on Shia¡¯s back and Ella¡¯s stern figure. Ella was usually warm and composed; it was rare to see her scolding a student so harshly. Curious, the teacher looked for a moment longer but soon lowered her head again, returning to her work. She didn¡¯t see what was happening in the blind spot behind the books stacked on Ella''s desk. Beneath her seemingly dignified facade, Ella¡¯s subtle movements were mesmerizing. Shia¡¯s gaze trailed from Ella¡¯s face downward. From the proud peaks of her chest to her slim waist, and finally settling on her plump legs wrapped in sheer black silk. Her foot rested against his ankle, her toe pressing lightly but firmly, impossible to ignore. Then, slowly but deliberately, her foot slid upward along his leg. The thin layer of silk didn¡¯t mask the warmth and softness of her foot. Shia could distinctly feel every nuance of its delicate shape. The silky stockings added a slippery smoothness, their tightness enhancing the elasticity of her movements. His eyes returned to Ella¡¯s face, meeting her disdainful gaze. She was doing this on purpose. Deliberately provoking him in front of other teachers. A young boy like him should be overwhelmed by her mature, commanding aura, right? This was her first step in reclaiming control. "Although you¡¯re the top freshman, you can¡¯t neglect your classes. Why did you even come to the Seven Shields Academy if you¡¯re going to slack off? Complacency leads to failure; there¡¯s still much you need to learn," Ella continued her reprimand. Her gaze, however, grew increasingly scornful. Little boy, do you feel the weight of a teacher¡¯s authority now? From now on, learn to respect and fear your teacher! After all, a teacher has so much to teach. She¡¯d transformed into a domineering queen, her foot boldly climbing past his knee, pressing further upward without hesitation. Other teachers saw only her stern scolding of a student, unaware of the provocative actions hidden below. Ella had orchestrated this scenario perfectly. She could already imagine Shia blushing, lowering his head in shame¡ªa thought that thrilled her further. However, at this moment, Shia remained expressionless. Watching Ella grow increasingly daring, Shia couldn¡¯t help but sigh inwardly. This woman really knew how to play the role of a seductive madam. But for her to talk to him like this? It seemed she¡¯d grown a bit bold. Shia was surprised by her behavior. It appeared they hadn¡¯t spent enough time together lately. Her "submission meter" seemed to have dropped. That wasn¡¯t a good sign. Her provocations now? Clearly overdue for some discipline. She needed to be put in her place. Her foot reached midway up his thigh, entering dangerous territory. Ella, determined to reestablish her dominance, showed no intention of stopping. But in the next moment, her silk-clad foot was firmly grasped. Shia¡¯s hand wrapped around it, the softness and elasticity of her foot against the silky fabric delightful to touch. He gave it a gentle squeeze. The sensation was incredible. Ella froze in shock! Her pupils contracted slightly, and the words she¡¯d prepared were caught in her throat. She almost let out a startled gasp but managed to stifle it. Instead, her gaze grew sharper. She hadn¡¯t expected Shia to be so bold, doing this in front of so many people. Chapter 121: Confident Comeback of the Madam, Daring Moves in a Crowded Office? (2) Chapter 121: Confident Comeback of the Madam, Daring Moves in a Crowded Office? (2) Ella instinctively tried to pull her foot back, but it was no use. Though his grip wasn¡¯t overly tight, she couldn¡¯t break free. Shia smiled gently. "I¡¯ve been preoccupied with some personal matters, so I¡¯ve missed a few classes. My apologies." His voice was polite, his demeanor respectful, and his apology sincere. The other teachers glanced over, silently impressed. As expected of the top freshman¡ªhumble, steady, and composed. But Ella, seated before him, was in turmoil. While his words were apologetic, his actions were anything but. Ella instinctively tensed her leg, but the sensation beneath her foot left her ears tinged red. Shia, facing away from the others, revealed a mischievous smile that only Ella could see. His hand didn¡¯t stop its subtle movements. His lips parted slightly, his voice so low only she could hear. "With everyone watching, making too much noise might draw their attention, don¡¯t you think~?" As a considerate student, it was only natural for him to remind his dear teacher of such things Ella pursed her lips slightly, her gaze toward Shia filled with irritation. She tried to intimidate him with her eyes. "Aren¡¯t you afraid of being caught disrespecting your teacher?" she mouthed silently. Shia? Afraid of threats? Hardly. He shrugged slightly, and the pressure of his hand on the sole of her foot increased. "Aunt Ella, I¡¯m giving you two options." This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it. "One, expose my behavior loudly, and I¡¯ll be expelled immediately." "Two, admit your mistake obediently and accept your punishment." Shia grinned, his smile genuine yet smug. Ella still tried to pull her foot back, but it was futile. She didn¡¯t dare make any large movements, knowing Shia was right¡ªany commotion could attract the attention of the other teachers. The last thing she wanted was to lose face in front of her colleagues. But Shia¡¯s carefree attitude only fueled her frustration. She bit her lip, her annoyance bubbling under the surface. After several deep breaths, she finally calmed herself enough to mouth a reply. "Do you think I won¡¯t dare?" Shia¡¯s grin widened, glowing with mischief. "I¡¯d never assume that, Aunt Ella. You can shout anytime you like." Ella¡ Ella really didn¡¯t dare. Every time she faced Shia, she couldn¡¯t shake the strange sense of intimidation he exuded, as if he naturally held power over her. And, of course, there was the matter of her secret. Ella finally remembered why Shia had been able to manipulate her so easily from the start of his enrollment. It was because he knew her biggest secret. If she defied him and he exposed it, her situation would be utterly miserable. At that moment, Ella chastised herself. Why had she been so foolish to provoke him earlier? If she truly pushed him too far¡ She wanted to smack herself in the head¡ªif only they weren¡¯t in public, if only her foot weren¡¯t still captured by the brat. She clenched her fists in silent frustration. It wasn¡¯t just Ella, though. With the first layer of Shia¡¯s charm-enhancing ring unsealed, its invisible influence had only grown stronger. The mental suppression effect was also amplified. From the perspective of the other teachers, the interaction between Ella and Shia appeared entirely different. On the surface, Shia maintained the demeanor of an earnest student sincerely accepting criticism. The other teachers were pleased with his attitude. Meanwhile, Ella, the only one aware of the truth, bit her lip and glared at him with a mixture of resentment and helplessness. But outwardly, she had to maintain her strict posture, sitting upright and keeping her stern facade. Her entire body was tense. This composure left the other teachers in awe. As expected of Ella. Usually warm and approachable, beloved by students, but when authority was needed, she didn¡¯t waver. They silently admired her professionalism. In their minds, Shia¡¯s attitude was exemplary. If it were them, facing such a respectful and good-looking student admitting their mistakes, they¡¯d likely soften their stance. But Ella? She remained firm, continuing to uphold her teacherly authority. A role model for educators! Yet for Ella, the one being admired, it felt agonizing. She wanted to cry. Why am I the one being bullied and manipulated here? Her bitterness had no outlet. "Yesterday, your access was revoked because the headmistress was acting on a childish whim to assert her authority," Shia¡¯s low voice suddenly spoke near her ear. A shadow fell over her vision as Shia bent down, his breath close, his familiar scent enveloping her. Ella froze for a moment, bewildered by the sudden explanation. Her thoughts had been elsewhere, but they were now forcibly redirected. "Aunt Ella, you¡¯re our mentor¡ªnot only knowledgeable but also highly regarded. I truly value you." "The headmistress wasn¡¯t deliberately targeting you, nor is she trying to compete with you. You¡¯re the only one I can rely on." "I¡¯ll need your help in many matters moving forward. I need you, Aunt Ella." His deep, gentle voice seemed to resonate directly from his chest, calming yet firm. To the other teachers, it appeared as though Shia was bowing in apology. Ella, caught off guard by his words, felt a strange sweetness well up in her heart. This brat was explaining himself to her? And he even admitted that he needed her? Wasn¡¯t this essentially him lowering his head to her? Ella¡¯s heart softened slightly, and her gaze became less sharp. Her lips twitched as if wanting to curl into a smile, but she suppressed the urge. Of course, she told herself, this was simply a testament to her maturity and upper hand as the elder. It wasn¡¯t because his words made her feel valued. Ella turned her head slightly to avoid Shia¡¯s gaze. I don¡¯t need his approval, she thought stubbornly¡ Yet a faint blush spread across her cheeks. "Oh," she replied curtly. Her tone seemed indifferent, as if unimpressed by the explanation. But this small act of denial didn¡¯t escape Shia¡¯s notice. He simply smiled and chose not to expose her. Watching her ears turn redder, he remained silent. Chapter 122: Confident Comeback of the Madam, Daring Moves in a Crowded Office? (3) Chapter 122: Confident Comeback of the Madam, Daring Moves in a Crowded Office? (3) After Shia left, the office gradually returned to its usual quiet, with only two teachers chatting softly in the background. Ella remained seated, her long, soft legs weak beneath her desk as she tried to process the events that had just unfolded. Despite her lingering frustration, her face was lit with an unmistakable joy¡ªa stark contrast to her earlier gloom and defeat. It was unclear whether her happiness stemmed from her successful bait-and-switch strategy or the reassurance that her charm still held sway. Either way, she was undeniably pleased. --- Ella¡¯s thoughts swirled in a complicated storm of emotions. "Ping!" Her phone vibrated twice on her desk, the screen lighting up with a notification. In a good mood, she picked it up to check the message. However, as her eyes scanned the text, her face slowly turned serious, her expression growing heavy. The sender was a number she knew all too well¡ªone she hadn¡¯t saved, but one that had exchanged countless messages with her in the past. Zero. Her direct superior. The message was a directive, outlining the next phase of her mission. Ella stared at the words, seemingly lost in thought or perhaps deliberating over the implications. After a long moment, she expertly deleted the message as though it had never existed. But the contents had already burned themselves into her memory. Pressing her lips together, she clenched her phone tightly, the knuckles of her fingers whitening. ''What could the Witch¡¯s Midnight Banquet, silent for so long, be planning now?'' --- In the classroom, Violet was working on her own scheme, gradually acclimating to Shia¡¯s presence. Her plan was straightforward: lower his guard and then seize the perfect moment for a lethal strike. However, the reality was more mundane. Violet glanced at the person sitting next to her and turned to Shia with a faint smile. Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more. "What did Ella want with you earlier?" "Nothing much, just a little scolding for skipping classes." Their casual exchange was calm and unremarkable. Violet twitched slightly at his response but ultimately lowered her head, letting a small smile play on her lips. Once a lofty, untouchable figure, Violet now seemed much more approachable. Not only had she grown accustomed to Shia sitting near her as a desk mate, but she had also softened her demeanor toward others. The once intimidating aura around her seat had dissipated, and classmates now felt comfortable sitting nearby. A crisp ''clang'' broke the calm as a ruler fell to the floor, landing near Violet¡¯s feet. The girl behind Violet covered her face in embarrassment. Oh no, her ruler had fallen at the feet of the princess. Now she¡¯d have to wait until the break to pick it up. She froze when she heard a faint sound. When she opened her eyes, she found the ruler back on her desk. Violet had bent down and returned it to her. The silver-haired princess turned back around as if it were nothing. The girl was stunned. Was this the same ice-cold goddess? She actually picked up something for her. Though she had heard rumors of Violet¡¯s newfound gentleness, experiencing it firsthand was shocking. "Thank you," the girl said, her face lighting up with a radiant smile. Her eyes, however, couldn¡¯t help but drift toward Shia. It wasn¡¯t just this girl who had experienced Violet¡¯s softened attitude. Many classmates had noticed, and after their initial surprise, they all attributed it to Shia. There was no way they believed they had earned the favor of the Silver Moon Princess. It had to be because of Shia. Only he could get close to this untouchable flower. A wave of admiration swept through the class as everyone held Shia in high regard. Not only was he immensely talented, but he had also managed to bring about a transformation in Violet. In their eyes, Shia was clearly Violet¡¯s rightful boyfriend. Violet had heard these rumors as well. Her response? A snort of disdain. There was no way she would ever fall for someone like him. She wasn¡¯t an idiot! Yet, even as she thought this, she turned to Shia with a warm smile. The smile was serene and beautiful. Their eyes met, and for a moment, they looked like a harmonious couple, completely in sync. Shia smiled back, noting how the once prickly Violet now seemed much more tolerable. Her soft, fluffy hair looked particularly tempting to touch. So, he reached out. As expected, it was soft and fluffy, just as he had imagined. Violet¡¯s lips pressed together slightly, her face still wearing a sweet smile. It was all a facade, built on patience and restraint. Everything was worth enduring for the sake of eventual victory. --- Compared to the once arrogant and ostentatious princess, Violet¡¯s growth was undeniable. When class ended, Shia approached her directly with a request for help. "Why me?" Violet asked, her tone lofty. She crossed her silk-clad legs, the supple fabric pressing lightly against her thighs. The creamy, snow-like texture seemed ready to melt at any moment. Her response was neither a direct agreement nor a refusal, leaving plenty of room for maneuvering. Whether or not she would help? That depended on the situation. Violet felt a small sense of triumph, her expression haughty, as if demanding to be begged. How arrogant. Shia, however, was blunt and straightforward. "Please, you¡¯re the only one who can help me." His words were earnest, his actions even more so. Shia stepped forward and wrapped his arms around her slim waist. "Truly, I¡¯m asking you sincerely." The ticklish sensation at her waist made Violet instinctively want to pull away. Her eyes darted around, frantic. If anyone saw this, what would they think? The rumors were already bad enough¡ªthis would be disastrous. "I¡¯ll help, okay? But only because you asked so earnestly," she relented. Of course, she¡¯d never admit that his sincerity had made her happy. Though she tried to maintain her royal elegance, deep down, she was still just a young girl. Shia noticed the subtle satisfaction in Violet¡¯s expression and couldn¡¯t help but chuckle to himself. She¡¯s surprisingly easy to fool, he thought. "Alright, I agreed¡ªso let go!" Violet¡¯s voice dropped to a low, exasperated whisper. "If you¡¯re willing to help me, I need to thank you properly," Shia said sincerely. "Ah¡ª" Her words were swallowed by silence, the air between them thick with tension. --- Later that day, after school. Violet followed Shia to the basement of his villa. Her eyes widened at the sight of the massive machinery filling the room. Intricate devices and incomprehensible mechanisms dominated the space, leaving her in awe. "What is this¡?" she muttered unconsciously. Even with her vast knowledge, she had never seen anything like these machines. Her mind buzzed with curiosity and doubt. What was Shia planning? Footsteps echoed, drawing her attention. She turned to see others descending the stairs. Among them were Rong, a seemingly ordinary but cute girl; the golden-haired elven princess; and even¡ Violet¡¯s eyes widened slightly. "Aph? What are you doing here?" The others also looked at Shia and Aph with curiosity. Aph, clearly caught off guard, broke into a nervous sweat. "I-I¡¯m here to see you, Your Highness!" Aph stammered, quickly searching for an excuse. "I heard you were helping him, so I came to assist too." Her words tumbled out in a rush as she tried to maintain her composure. "If you¡¯re helping, I couldn¡¯t just stand by and do nothing, so I decided to join in as well." Aph turned to Shia, her eyes pleading. "Right, Shia?¡± Chapter 123: The White Silk Princess Gets Her Comeuppance – Punishment in the Little Black Room (1) Chapter 123: The White Silk Princess Gets Her Comeuppance ¨C Punishment in the Little Black Room (1) In her heart, Aph was desperately praying: ''Please cooperate with me!'' ''We agreed in the contract¡ªdon¡¯t let Her Highness suspect anything!'' Violet cast a suspicious glance at Shia. Shia simply nodded with a confident, easygoing air. ¡°Exactly, that¡¯s how it is.¡± However, Violet still felt a sense of unease, especially when she noticed Aph looking tense and fidgety. Though skeptical, she nodded hesitantly, her gaze still darting between Aph and Shia. But soon, Violet had no time to dwell on this small matter. ¡°Clap, clap, clap!¡± Shia clapped his hands to draw everyone¡¯s attention. Naturally, all eyes turned to him. ¡°This machine in front of you is called a distiller,¡± Shia began, his voice brimming with authority. ¡°During the brewing process, you need to add a certain amount of water to complete fermentation. However, after brewing is complete, the water can affect the taste, making the wine¡¯s flavor too light. ¡°But now, with this machine, everything changes.¡± He gestured toward the contraption like it was a treasure. ¡°This distiller can separate the wine from the water, leaving only the purest, richest essence. Distillation enhances the wine¡¯s flavor and creates the effect of aging for years, all within a short time.¡± As Shia explained, he began assigning tasks to everyone. Managing the temperature was crucial to prevent water and alcohol from evaporating together. Cooling and separating the pure liquid, then storing it in clean containers, were equally important. The principle was simple, but the operation required precision and meticulous care. That¡¯s why he needed everyone¡¯s help. Handling so many details was impossible with just one person. Once Shia finished explaining, Violet finally understood what ¡°help¡± meant. Essentially, it was maintaining the machine''s operation. If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. ¡°You¡¯re making ''me'' do this?!¡± Violet was aghast. Wasn¡¯t this the kind of job for servants? She was a princess, noble and dignified! How could she stoop to such menial labor? It was utterly degrading and humiliating. ¡°I refuse!¡± Violet declared with a frosty expression, turning her head aside. Shia shrugged nonchalantly. ¡°Well, there¡¯s no helping it. The distillation process is a bit complicated and requires extra hands. Besides, this is groundbreaking technology¡ªit¡¯s important to keep it confidential. ¡°Unfortunately, I don¡¯t know many people, and you¡¯re the only ones I trust.¡± In other words, free labor was hard to come by, so he specifically roped in acquaintances. Violet wasn¡¯t buying it. Making her do servant work? ''Dream on!'' Shia gave Violet a long, assessing look. ¡°You did agree to help earlier, didn¡¯t you? Surely the esteemed princess wouldn¡¯t go back on her word?¡± His expression was laced with mock surprise, even a hint of disdain, as if silently questioning how someone claiming to be a princess could break her promises. It was blatant reverse psychology, but it worked like a charm. Violet gritted her teeth in frustration, resisting the urge to lunge at him and take a bite out of his smug face. She had agreed to help, and backing out now would look bad. ''Never trust a scoundrel¡¯s words!'' What seemed like an appeal to her unique capabilities was just a ploy to trick her into doing grunt work¡ªmenial, mindless labor with no skill involved. Though seething with anger, Violet had no choice but to stay. She had given her word, after all. But the more she thought about it, the more stifled and indignant she felt. ''Fine, I agreed to help, but I never said I¡¯d do a good job!'' If she couldn¡¯t escape, she could at least slack off, right? And so, Violet began her half-hearted sabotage, dragging her feet at every turn. Her goal was clear: make the work unbearable until Shia himself gave up and released her from her promise. Unfortunately, her little scheme fell flat. A certain innocent-looking loli senior watched her sluggish movements with a judgmental glare. ¡°Why are you so slow?¡± That look was pure disdain, as if Violet were a complete fool who couldn¡¯t handle even the simplest of tasks. A princess who wanted to claim the top spot among freshmen, yet couldn¡¯t manage this? Though Nia said nothing, Violet could read all of this from her gaze. Being judged by such a pure and angelic senior left Violet feeling deeply ashamed and guilty. ''That¡¯s right. I promised to do this, and here I am, half-assing it. How embarrassing!'' Violet had always aspired to shine like the brightest star. She couldn¡¯t let her senior look down on her. No matter the circumstances, she had to be the best. Guilt turned into determination, and Violet¡¯s attitude underwent a drastic change. Even if it was just menial labor, she would be number one! Distillation? Complicated tasks? ''Bring it on!'' As the dignified Silver Moon Princess, Violet prided herself on being capable of anything. When Violet got serious, she was a force to be reckoned with. Not only did she complete her tasks with speed and precision, but she even started helping others. Her enthusiasm was infectious, and the overall pace of work improved significantly. Seeing her achievements only fueled Violet¡¯s motivation. ''Look at me! I¡¯m amazing!'' Standing tall with a proud smirk, Violet glanced at the others. ''None of you are as fast as me!'' She was now fully immersed in her role as a diligent worker, completely oblivious to how much she had been duped. Rong watched this transformation with a mix of pity and amusement. Though they were of similar age and status¡ªone a Silver Moon Princess, the other a succubus princess¡ªtheir vastly different upbringings made Rong far more mature. Shia¡¯s reverse psychology and Nia¡¯s subtle reinforcement? Rong saw through it all instantly. Violet, however, remained blissfully unaware. She was genuinely proud of her accomplishments, forgetting that she was just free labor. No matter how well she performed, it ultimately benefited others, not herself. ''Sold out and still counting money for them¡ Poor girl!'' Rong cast a knowing glance at Shia, then at Nia. Their eyes met briefly, sharing a quiet, mischievous understanding. Even Aph couldn¡¯t help but shake her head. ''She really needs more life experience.'' Watching the princess pour her heart into the work with such passion and determination, even the knightess, Aph, couldn¡¯t help but feel a twinge of guilt. Sure, her princess was exceptional¡ªperfect even¡ªbut there were times when her naivety shone through too brightly. Aph¡¯s mind replayed Shia¡¯s earlier words. ¡°I¡¯m tempering your princess,¡± he had said. Chapter 124: The White Silk Princess Gets Her Comeuppance – Punishment in the Little Black Room (2) Chapter 124: The White Silk Princess Gets Her Comeuppance ¨C Punishment in the Little Black Room (2) For the first time, Aph truly realized the importance of collaborating with Shia. A ruler needed more than just personal excellence¡ªthey needed mental resilience and life experience. Without a few hard lessons now, the princess might suffer far worse in the future. At least, for now, Shia¡¯s trials were controlled, ensuring Violet¡¯s safety while she learned. It was far better than letting her stumble and fall in the real world, learning lessons the hard way. With this thought, Aph¡¯s gaze toward Shia grew more admiring, her trust in him solidifying further. Of course, Violet understood none of this. Admiring her vastly superior progress, Violet felt nothing but pride. She had expected to be showered with admiration and respect. Instead, she was met with¡ pitying glances. ¡°Huh? Why is Aph looking at me with sympathy?¡± ¡°What¡¯s with this plain little girl¡¯s gaze?¡± ¡°And¡ my senior, too?¡± ''What¡¯s going on?!'' Violet was utterly confused. Weren¡¯t they supposed to admire her efficiency? What was with those looks of pity? It made her feel as though ''she'' were the fool here. She didn¡¯t get it. ¡°Truly worthy of being the Silver Moon Princess! Your work skills are impeccable!¡± Shia gave Violet a thumbs-up, his face full of admiration. The moment he spoke, Violet¡¯s confusion evaporated. Her spine straightened, and her chin tilted upwards, basking in the compliment. Shia, ever the master manipulator, leaned fully into his role as her personal cheerleader. ¡°That technique¡ªso professional! Absolute mastery!¡± ¡°Your efficiency is unparalleled¡ªlike a one-person army!¡± ¡°Good thing you¡¯re here. Didn¡¯t I say we couldn¡¯t do this without you?¡± Stolen novel; please report. Under Shia¡¯s endless string of praises, Violet¡¯s ego swelled. ''See? There are people who can recognize my brilliance.'' In her mind, she was a rare gem, a talent that ordinary people could neither comprehend nor compete with. Proud and self-assured, the princess allowed her newfound confidence to take over. She even dared to critique Shia¡¯s entire brewing setup. ¡°Brewing is about capturing the pure essence of the grain¡¯s aroma while preserving its original taste,¡± she said, her tone dripping with authority. ¡°This entire process of yours, though flashy and elaborate, is ultimately superficial.¡± ¡°So much manpower and resources wasted for a mediocre result¡ªit completely deviates from the essence of brewing.¡± Violet walked through the basement with her nose in the air, pointing out the supposed flaws in Shia¡¯s equipment and techniques. Shia, the undisputed master of brewing with maxed-out skills, said nothing. He simply smiled, quietly listening to her criticisms. As a princess, Violet had indeed been exposed to top-tier wines. Her royal lineage ensured the best storage conditions and access to expert brewers. Only the finest vintages were ever placed before her. This environment had fostered a strong sense of confidence in her knowledge. Coupled with Shia¡¯s deliberate flattery, Violet had deluded herself into thinking she was some kind of brewing expert. With her self-proclaimed expertise, Violet picked apart every aspect of Shia¡¯s brewing process, blissfully unaware of how ridiculous she sounded. As the saying goes, "a half-filled pot makes the most noise." Armed with what she believed to be profound insight, Violet critiqued Shia¡¯s work with the pomp of someone who thought themselves a genius. If it were just a few flattering comments to humor her, Shia wouldn¡¯t have minded. But now that she¡¯d begun outright criticizing him, his patience began to wane. ¡°You¡¯ve underestimated my brewing techniques,¡± Shia said, his tone laced with something unspoken. ¡°A well-done brewing process can not only make you rich but even save a country.¡± His words carried weight, but Violet didn¡¯t believe a single syllable. ''Brewing? Save a country?'' She scoffed internally. ''What nonsense.'' Her disbelief only deepened as she looked around. ''His brewing isn¡¯t even that impressive.'' Shia, however, said nothing further. He merely smiled and observed her with an unreadable gaze, as if patiently waiting for something. ''And wait he would. The truth would prove itself.'' For now, though? ¡°Oh, Princess, so bold¡ªalready daring to question me?¡± Shia spoke slowly, his voice carrying an undercurrent of something dangerous. Violet blinked, her overinflated confidence faltering slightly. She stared at Shia in confusion. Shia¡¯s smile remained warm and friendly, but his eyes hinted at something else entirely. Step by step, he moved closer to her. ¡°You just said my equipment and methods are flashy but impractical?¡± Violet instinctively shrank back, a chill running down her spine. ¡°You don¡¯t believe what I said earlier?¡± She took an involuntary step back, but there was nowhere to retreat. Shia loomed over her, his shadow engulfing her entirely. ¡°Did you think about the consequences of doubting me?¡± Violet¡¯s arrogance evaporated in an instant. Cold sweat beaded on her skin as panic set in. She wanted to run. But before she could, Shia¡¯s hand clamped firmly onto her shoulder. ¡°Gulp!¡± Violet¡¯s throat tightened as she froze. Shia¡¯s expression softened into an almost angelic smile. He pulled her closer, his arm sliding around her shoulder and locking her in place. Half his body weight pressed against her, making escape impossible. ¡°As a reward for helping me, I¡¯ll make sure to properly thank you,¡± Shia said, his tone dangerously sweet. Violet¡¯s wide eyes brimmed with fear as she forced a stiff smile, her hands fumbling to pry his hand off her shoulder. ¡°Ha¡ haha¡ no need for thanks, we¡¯re all friends here¡¡± But Shia was already dragging her away. He took her to a secluded room where no one could see. Once inside, he locked the door behind them. Violet¡¯s heart raced as she searched for a way out. Spotting an opening, she lunged for the door. But Shia¡¯s hand seized her ankle, yanking her back effortlessly. Her sandal slipped off, leaving her delicate foot clad only in white stockings pressed against the soft carpet. The room wasn¡¯t cold, but Violet¡¯s heart felt like it had plunged into ice. ''Like a helpless girl facing a demon, there was no room for resistance.'' Shia¡¯s hand closed around her ankle, his touch firm yet teasing. Violet bit her lip, her watery eyes filled with a mix of shame and helplessness. Shia extended a finger, lightly brushing against her foot. ¡°Guh~!¡± Her soft whimper filled the small room. Chapter 125: The Princess’s Dignity Completely Shattered, and the Revered Sister Defers to a Villain Chapter 125: The Princess¡¯s Dignity Completely Shattered, and the Revered Sister Defers to a Villain¡ (1) One moment, Violet was still struggling to escape; the next, she went limp. Her white silk-clad legs twitched unconsciously, her smooth, porcelain-like skin gradually flushing red. Her wide, teary eyes glistened as soft whimpers escaped her lips. ¡°Ugh~¡± Inside the secluded room, all sound was muffled, the small space blocking out prying eyes and isolating their voices. The temperature steadily rose, enveloping Violet in a stifling heat that made her feel like she was boiling alive. ''Why would he touch the soles of my feet?'' Her mind raced, panicked and repentant. ''I really won¡¯t provoke him again! I promise!'' Sweat soaked through her clothes, clinging to her body as stray strands of hair plastered to her face and neck. She wanted to flee, but her limbs were completely drained of strength, leaving her weak and trembling. ''If there¡¯s a next time, I¡¯ll control myself better!'' The silky texture of her white stockings clung to her skin, accentuating her slender, shapely legs. Their elasticity and warmth under Shia¡¯s touch felt utterly irresistible. The creamy fabric, pristine and pure, seemed to evoke an unexplainable tension, as if its innocence begged to be tarnished. Her legs, encased in the sheer white fabric, resembled the smooth surface of freshly churned ice cream, inviting indulgence. Shia¡¯s fingers wrapped around her delicate foot, lifting her leg slightly higher. Beneath her skirt, the seamless, translucent tights teased with just enough allure to stoke the imagination. Violet bit her lip, her watery eyes locking onto Shia¡¯s face with a mix of defiance and embarrassment. Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site. ''How dare he do this?!'' A princess of her standing, reduced to such a state¡ªit was a disgrace! But no matter how humiliated she felt, she refused to admit defeat. Her shame only fueled her fury as she glared at him, her mind filled with tiny, vengeful scribbles of his downfall. And yet, in the depths of her heart, she couldn¡¯t find even a sliver of true resentment toward him. Even now¡ being held like this¡ Determined not to remain passive, Violet retaliated. ¡°Shia, do you dare make a bet with me?¡± she said, her breathing ragged and voice trembling with both anger and desperation. Shia¡¯s gaze lingered on her face, not her foot. Her silver hair clung to her flushed cheeks, her big, watery eyes shimmering like she¡¯d been utterly defeated. Seeing him hesitate for a moment, Violet seized the opportunity to speak, worried he might not even let her talk. ¡°I can brew wine that will leave you in awe,¡± she challenged, her tone laced with defiance. ¡°If I succeed, you have to let me get revenge on you.¡± She smirked slightly, her eyes brimming with confidence. ¡°Do you dare?¡± Shia¡¯s eyes scanned her from head to toe. The sweat-drenched princess lay before him, her flushed skin radiating heat and exhaustion. Though she looked completely outmatched, her smug expression betrayed her misplaced confidence. Violet doubled down, her tone sharp. ¡°If you¡¯re still a man, don¡¯t be a coward!¡± She couldn¡¯t stand how Shia kept silently observing her, his unspoken scrutiny making her feel like all her plans were laid bare. Desperate to corner him into agreeing, she applied more pressure, leaving him no time to think. Shia¡¯s expression grew amused, his fingers brushing against his chin as a sly smile played on his lips. ''Ah, the child¡¯s learning. She¡¯s even picked up reverse psychology.'' ''Is this a case of "monkey see, monkey do"?'' He released her delicate foot. ¡°Alright,¡± he said, his tone indulgent, as if humoring a child¡¯s antics. Shia¡¯s smile deepened as he watched Violet relax, her body going limp like a survivor of a narrow escape. She was too busy regaining her composure to notice the cunning glint in his eyes. ''Let the little princess have her space. She¡¯ll soon realize how naive she¡¯s been.'' Violet perked up at the thought of her plan succeeding. ¡°This is a secret recipe passed down in the Silver Moon royal family,¡± she said proudly. ¡°You¡¯re not allowed to watch.¡± With that, she pushed Shia and the others out of the basement. Once alone, her restrained demeanor melted away, replaced by an unfiltered, gleeful grin. Hands on her hips, Violet threw her head back and cackled like a villain about to triumph over the hero. Her royal grace gave way to carefree excitement as she finally let her true nature shine. Once she had laughed her fill, she eagerly began her brewing process. --- The first step was preparing the mash. Traditionally, this involved fermenting wheat or other grains, with steps like stirring and heating to enhance the flavor. After glancing toward the door to ensure her privacy, Violet kicked off her shoes with a mischievous smirk, her pristine white stockings now exposed. She stepped directly into the mash, the sticky mixture seeping through the silky fabric, turning it slightly transparent. Beneath the damp material, her tender, porcelain-like skin peeked through, reminiscent of melting snow. As she stomped on the mash, the plump grapes beneath her feet burst, their deep red juices soaking into the stockings. Violet¡¯s eyes sparkled with mischief. ''True fine wine must be made with the delicate touch of beauty!'' She grinned, reveling in her audacity. The sensation of the sticky mixture clinging to her legs was oddly satisfying, the damp fabric hugging every curve of her shapely feet. Chapter 126: The Princess’s Dignity Completely Shattered, and the Revered Sister Defers to a Villain Chapter 126: The Princess¡¯s Dignity Completely Shattered, and the Revered Sister Defers to a Villain¡ (2) Her laughter grew louder as she imagined Shia savoring her "special" wine, utterly oblivious to her method. Her chest rose and fell as she worked, her breathing uneven but exhilarated. Droplets of sweat formed on her nose and dampened her back. Finally, she bent down to scoop the freshly pressed wine into a crystal-clear glass. Holding the glass of ruby-red wine, she couldn¡¯t contain her smug grin. ''Here¡¯s a little extra flavor, courtesy of your princess!'' To avoid any suspicion, she quickly changed into a fresh pair of stockings and straightened her outfit. Moments later, Violet reappeared before Shia, her expression serene and composed as she elegantly presented the wine. The glass clinked softly against the marble table. Violet leaned forward gracefully, gesturing toward the wine with a knowing smile. ¡°Please, taste it,¡± she said, her tone dripping with mock politeness. Inwardly, she was already giggling, imagining Shia unknowingly sipping her "foot-crafted" wine. ''Gotcha!'' But her triumph was short-lived. Shia didn¡¯t drink it. He glanced at the glass, then raised an eyebrow at Violet. ¡°You first,¡± he said, his voice calm but firm. ''...Gulp.'' ¡°What? You want ''me'' to drink it?¡± Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators! Violet¡¯s smile froze, her expression turning blank as she stared at Shia in disbelief. The innocent princess hadn¡¯t even considered this possibility. Wasn¡¯t he supposed to drink it, evaluate its taste, and praise her brilliance? ''Why is he asking me to drink it?'' Her gaze shifted to the glass of wine on the table. A faint frown formed as she mulled over her options. ''Even though it¡¯s my own¡ feet¡ involved, I can¡¯t possibly drink it!'' What now? How could she talk her way out of this? After a long moment of internal struggle, she clumsily came up with an excuse. ¡°Well, um, I only made this one glass. If I drink it, what will you drink?¡± She added a placating smile and gently pushed the glass toward Shia. Shia¡¯s sharp eyes stayed locked on her face. Her guilty expression spoke volumes¡ªthere was definitely something suspicious going on. ¡°No problem,¡± Shia said, resting his chin on his hand and tilting his head slightly, his gaze pressing down on her. ¡°I don¡¯t mind drinking after you.¡± Violet¡¯s breath hitched. Her forehead glistened with sweat as panic set in, her inner thoughts spinning in chaotic circles. ¡°I¡ I already tasted it just now! It¡¯s¡ very good!¡± Her voice trembled as she stammered, clearly flustered. Shia¡¯s eyes narrowed slightly, his tone turning teasing. ¡°Why don¡¯t you want to drink it? What are you hiding?¡± ¡°Did you¡ add something to it?¡± ¡°Spit?¡± ¡°Dirt?¡± ¡°Or¡ was it stomped with your feet?¡± Each word struck closer to the truth, and Violet¡¯s face turned a shade paler. She squirmed, her guilt written all over her. When Shia hit the bullseye, her heart skipped a beat. She stiffened, trying her best to keep a straight face. ¡°You have no proof. Don¡¯t talk nonsense,¡± she said defensively, though her tone wavered. ¡°If you¡¯re too scared to drink it yourself, I can only assume you poisoned it.¡± Shia shrugged nonchalantly. He had only been bluffing to provoke her, but her reaction confirmed his suspicions. As his gaze shifted to the dark red liquid in the glass, he fell silent, as if deep in thought. Seeing his contemplative expression, Violet¡¯s anxiety spiked. She realized she was about to be exposed. Her muscles tensed, her white silk-clad legs stretching taut as she began inching backward, her movements subtle enough to go unnoticed. Her eyes darted toward the villa¡¯s entrance, mentally mapping an escape route. But it was too late to flee. In a desperate bid, Violet sprang toward the door, intending to make a run for it. However, her plan failed before it even began. Shia effortlessly grabbed the back of her collar, lifting her like a kitten. His lazy voice carried an undertone of danger. ¡°Where do you think you¡¯re going?¡± ¡°I-I¡¡± Violet stammered, scrambling for an excuse as her mind raced. But she had no time to come up with one. Shia pressed her down to the ground in front of everyone, preparing to deliver a lesson. ¡°Smack!¡± The sharp sting on her ass left Violet momentarily stunned. Without missing a beat, Shia continued. ¡°Smack, smack, smack¡¡± The crisp sound echoed through the room as the mischievous princess received her punishment. Violet¡¯s face burned hotter than ever, her humiliation reaching its peak. She buried her face in her arms, letting her long silver hair cascade down to shield herself from everyone¡¯s view. ''This is it. It¡¯s over!'' ''The ultimate social death.'' Her identity as a princess? Her dignity? All of it was gone. The sting on her ass didn¡¯t subside, and she was certain it was already swelling. But what hurt more was the shame¡ªknowing that everyone had seen her like this. Muffled whimpers escaped her lips, a mix of pain and embarrassment. Her mind was a complete blank, unable to process anything beyond her current predicament. ''Don¡¯t look at me! Please, stop looking!'' Her heart cried out in despair, tears threatening to spill as she prayed for the ground to swallow her whole. Chapter 127: The Princess’s Dignity Completely Shattered, and the Revered Sister Defers to a Villain Chapter 127: The Princess¡¯s Dignity Completely Shattered, and the Revered Sister Defers to a Villain¡ (3) But what truly crushed her spirit wasn¡¯t the public spanking¡ªit was Aph¡¯s reaction. Kneeling on both knees, Aph looked up at Shia with unwavering resolve. ¡°Her Highness made a mistake. Please allow me to atone on her behalf,¡± Aph said firmly. ¡°You can punish me however you like, but I beg you¡ªspare Her Highness.¡± Aph¡¯s plea hit Violet like a dagger to the heart. ''How could someone so noble and proud, like Aph, lower herself to beg on my behalf?'' Violet¡¯s head shot up, her cheeks still flushed with residual shame, her eyes filled with pain. ¡°Aph, you don¡¯t need to plead for me!¡± Her voice trembled as she spoke, her expression a mix of lingering embarrassment and heartfelt concern. Her pride as a princess couldn¡¯t bear the sight of Aph humbling herself before Shia. Not for her. Not like this. Aph was Violet¡¯s closest friend and dearest sister figure. Though their statuses differed, Violet valued Aph more than words could express. Seeing her kneeling before Shia, pleading on her behalf, was already unbearable. The thought of Aph taking her punishment was even worse. ''I don¡¯t mind enduring pain, but I can¡¯t stand watching the person I treasure most humiliate herself to appease someone else!'' Violet¡¯s face flushed red with anger as she stared at Aph, who remained kneeling, unmoving. ¡°Aph, I command you, as your princess, to stand up! Stop pleading with him!¡± Her voice wavered, carrying a faint sob. Aph pressed her lips together, her eyes filled with heartache as she gazed at Violet. The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings. As a knight, how could she stand idly by while her princess was mistreated? ''When the ruler is humiliated, the knight must act.'' Aph remained kneeling, her earnest eyes fixed on Shia. Her silent plea was clear: "Please, don¡¯t humiliate Her Highness like this. Punish me instead. I¡¯ll take full responsibility, no matter the cost." Tears welled up in Violet¡¯s eyes. ¡°This is an order! Stand up! Stop pleading with him!¡± Her tone grew cold, carrying the weight of authority that she rarely used with Aph. Aph bit her lip, torn but resolute. For the first time, she defied a direct order from her princess. Violet¡¯s tears threatened to fall, her red-rimmed eyes glaring at Aph with a mixture of frustration and desperation. At that moment, all her shame, her loss of dignity, and her humiliation faded into the background. None of that mattered anymore. The two close friends, bound by their mutual care and loyalty, found themselves at odds over Shia¡¯s punishment. Despite their shared affection, their clashing perspectives created tension and division. To Violet, Shia was a villain to be defeated. She obeyed only to bide her time, waiting for a chance to strike back. Aph, however, viewed Shia as a necessary force. His challenges, though harsh, were helping mold Violet into a capable ruler. Watching her princess suffer was painful, but Aph believed it was a worthwhile price to pay. Violet¡¯s transformation¡ªlearning to humble herself, work alongside others, and even use tactics like reverse psychology¡ªwas undeniable. ''Without Shia¡¯s trials, how many more failures would it take for her to gain these lessons?'' It was because Aph saw the results that her trust in Shia deepened. For her, kneeling and pleading wasn¡¯t humiliation; it was a choice born from love and loyalty. Violet, however, couldn¡¯t see it that way. To her, Aph was sacrificing her pride for a villain. It was unacceptable. Violet could endure pain and punishment herself, but she couldn¡¯t bear the thought of someone she cherished being hurt or degraded. Her possessiveness mingled with her protective instincts, fueling her defiance. Though they were both trapped in Shia¡¯s web, their differing responses only pushed them further apart. Shia watched the silent standoff between the two women, a faint headache brewing. ''So much drama¡ even when I intervene, destiny still takes its course.'' He sighed, finally letting go of Violet, though she didn¡¯t seem to notice. Aph shot Shia a grateful glance and stood, moving to help Violet to her feet. But Violet, still fuming, swatted Aph¡¯s hand away. She sat as far from her friend as possible, sulking like a child throwing a tantrum. The room fell into an awkward silence. Rong glanced nervously between Aph and Violet, sensing the tense atmosphere but too afraid to speak. She turned to Nia for help, only to find the elf princess hugging a pillow, completely lost in thought. The uneasy stillness was broken by the arrival of a new presence. Golden curls bounced as a familiar figure entered the room. Lilith, the persistent shadow, had arrived. Her keen senses, like those of a bloodhound, had once again led her straight to the gathering. With her uncanny ability to detect the presence of beautiful girls, how could she miss a room full of them? The moment she caught a whiff of their unique scents at the villa¡¯s entrance, her eyes lit up with excitement. Upon stepping into the room, she was greeted by a scene that made her heart race: Shia seated in the center, surrounded by four stunningly unique beauties. A scene straight out of a harem fantasy. Lilith¡¯s envious gaze first fell on Aph. ''A knightly older sister figure!'' Her tanned skin, perfect features, and aura of reliability exuded a mature charm. The curves of her body, subtly accentuated by her armor, hinted at a generous bosom that Lilith longed to rest her head against. Beside Aph sat Nia, the elf princess with a petite frame but strikingly generous proportions. Her golden hair cascaded down her shoulders, her innocent expression drawing anyone in. The way her chest squished against her pillow only added to her allure. On the other side of Shia were a demure maid and the regal Violet. The succubus maid, with her modest figure, failed to catch Lilith¡¯s attention¡ªshe already had an icy maid of her own. But Violet? The white-silk-clad princess, with her cold and elegant demeanor, resembled an untouchable snow queen. Her stockings, pristine and flawless, were irresistible. Lilith¡¯s jealousy surged as she glared at Shia. ''Why does this guy get to be in the middle of all this?'' Driven by her frustration, she boldly stepped forward. ¡°Hello, everyone! What a surprise to see you all gathered here!¡± Chapter 128: Mary Sue Never Lacks New Adventures Chapter 128: Mary Sue Never Lacks New Adventures Lilith beamed a dazzling smile, her refined demeanor exuding the elegance of a highborn lady. Her graceful steps carried her forward, her swaying hips drawing attention as she boldly inserted herself into the center of the group. She cast a slight frown at Shia, her tone carrying a hint of condescension. ¡°There are too many people sitting here. Go sit over there.¡± Her slender finger pointed towards a lone, single-seater sofa. Without waiting for a reply, she turned to Rong with a commanding air. ¡°Go slice some fruit platters. With so many guests here, how can we treat them so poorly?¡± Then, facing the other women, her demeanor transformed into one of warm hospitality. ¡°What do you all feel like eating? Just say the word.¡± She acted as if she were close to everyone, though her intentions were far from pure. As Shia¡¯s fianc¨¦e, using her position to meddle in his affairs was nothing short of shameless. The naturally absent-minded elven princess glanced at her, then propped her chin lazily on her impressive breasts, showing no interest in engaging. ¡°Boring,¡± her expression seemed to say. Aph, still heavy-hearted, pursed her lips in silence, saying nothing. Lilith¡¯s flirtatious efforts were thus met with utter indifference. She was throwing seductive glances at blind targets and getting no reactions. A metaphorical crow flew past, leaving an awkward silence in its wake. But who was Lilith? She wasn¡¯t someone easily fazed. Her skin was as thick as armor forged from years of practice. This minor setback didn¡¯t faze her. If one approach didn¡¯t work, she¡¯d simply try another. Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation. She turned her attention to Violet, about to engage her in conversation. After all, Violet was her junior and the one she considered herself closest to. Lilith even fancied their relationship to be somewhat friendly. However, before she could speak, her gaze landed on a glass of red wine nearby. Her eyes sparkled with mock disapproval as she looked at Shia. ¡°Shia, with so many guests here, why is there only one glass of wine prepared?¡± Finally, she¡¯d found a chance to criticize him and elevate herself. Such opportunities to shine couldn¡¯t be wasted. She scolded him lightly, then showcased her own enthusiasm for hospitality, hoping to impress everyone. But her plan backfired because she had entirely misunderstood the purpose of that glass of wine. Shia glanced at it, his tone indifferent. ¡°Oh, that? Violet made it herself.¡± And it was spiked. No one was interested in drinking it. The only destination for that wine was down the drain. Hearing this, Lilith¡¯s interest was piqued. ¡°Oh, Violet made it herself?¡± An opportunity to build rapport with her junior presented itself, and Lilith wasn¡¯t about to miss it. As if fearing someone else might take it, she immediately picked up the glass, her movements deliberate and refined. Bringing it close to her nose, she inhaled deeply, her eyes fluttering closed in enjoyment. ¡°As expected of Princess Violet. This aroma¡ Just a single whiff reveals its rich complexity and a touch of unique fragrance.¡± Violet, however, panicked internally. While her lingering grudge against Shia had driven her to craft this "special" wine as a prank, she hadn¡¯t anticipated someone else drinking it. Her instincts as a kind-hearted, albeit prideful, soul kicked in. She couldn¡¯t just let Lilith unknowingly drink it. ¡°Wait¡ª¡± Violet started to speak, but before she could finish, Lilith tipped her head back and downed the entire glass. The bright red of Lilith¡¯s dress accentuated her snow-white skin. Her slender neck moved enticingly as she swallowed, the motion captivating to anyone watching. Her golden hair cascaded around her, giving her a fiery yet enchanting aura. Her actions exuded a bold elegance, leaving onlookers stunned. Violet¡¯s voice caught in her throat, her eyes wide with disbelief. ¡°She drank it¡ Just like that?¡± By the time Violet regained her senses, it was far too late to warn her. Lilith, meanwhile, wore an expression of sheer delight. ¡°Such a full-bodied taste! This wine has layers of flavor. It¡¯s as if I¡¯ve traveled through time to an ancient vineyard, experiencing the sublime essence of its grapes. Truly, it¡¯s a drink that transcends the mundane!¡± Lilith¡¯s flowery praise poured out effortlessly. As the daughter of the prestigious Guen family, her education in fine arts and luxury was impeccable. If nothing else, her outward demeanor was flawless¡ªa goddess among socialites. She could embellish even the most ordinary experience with the grandeur of her words. Compliments flowed from her lips like poetry, creating an illusion of unmatched refinement. But Violet knew better. The reality of the wine''s creation was far from the romantic imagery Lilith painted. It was born of anger and soaked in vengeance, infused with the unwashed stockings Violet had worn for an entire day. Watching Lilith eloquently rave about the taste, Violet was torn between horror and disbelief. "She¡¯s calling ''that'' good?" Violet¡¯s gaze shifted uneasily. Sitting so close to this enigma of a woman made her uncomfortable. She unconsciously shuffled her seat a bit farther away. ¡°She¡¯s¡ terrifying.¡± Who would willingly enjoy something so grotesque? Violet couldn¡¯t fathom what kind of proclivities Lilith must have. Compared to this heavyweight eccentric, Shia suddenly seemed normal and safe¡ªdespite all his teasing and antics. Without realizing it, Violet had mentally handed Shia a victory. Lilith, however, remained oblivious. She was confident her lavish praise of Violet¡¯s creation had secured her favor. After all, who wouldn¡¯t appreciate someone recognizing their talent? No one can resist compliments! Lilith had closed her eyes, ready to bask in Violet¡¯s approving gaze, only to open them and find the spot beside her empty. Violet was hiding behind Shia, peeking out cautiously with only her guarded eyes visible, her hands clutching Shia¡¯s clothes like a shield. Lilith felt a wave of frustration surge through her. She had worked so hard, only for the benefits to land squarely in someone else¡¯s lap. cahpter 129: The Knightess’s Second Private Lesson cahpter 129: The Knightess¡¯s Second Private Lesson "I¡¯m the one who understands her, the one who truly appreciates her talents! How could this happen?" Her mind filled with righteous indignation. She lamented the prejudice against true love between girls in this world. But resignation wasn¡¯t in her nature. If she wanted to change things, she¡¯d have to rely on her own efforts. "I¡¯ll pave the way for a future where girls can openly express their feelings for one another, and where Violet can realize I¡¯m her true soulmate!" Her mission was a monumental one¡ªto change the world¡¯s prejudices with her own tw o hands. Fired up with resolve, Lilith¡¯s gaze softened as she looked at Violet again, now filled with tenderness and affection. However, Violet shuddered involuntarily under Lilith¡¯s gaze, a chill running down her spine. "Why is this foot-water-loving pervert looking at me like that?!" Lilith¡¯s gaze then shifted to Shia, her fianc¨¦e. If the world was prejudiced, and the path to change lay ahead, the first step was clearly to deal with this overly popular obstacle. The handsome young man sat casually, exuding a relaxed and unrestrained charm that made him seem approachable and kind. Lilith¡¯s eyes narrowed slightly, a mischievous smile creeping onto her face. It was obvious that this golden-haired troublemaker was already plotting her next scheme. --- Late Night A figure appeared outside Shia¡¯s villa. After deftly entering her information, the door opened. A lithe, curvaceous silhouette stepped inside, gliding through the living room, ascending the stairs, and finally stopping before Shia¡¯s bedroom door. Knock, knock, knock. Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author. The slow, deliberate rhythm of her knocking broke the stillness. Moments later, the door opened, revealing a softly lit room¡ªwarm and inviting against the darkness of the night. The light illuminated Aph¡¯s sun-kissed skin, her usually resolute eyes now tinged with confusion. Shia, silhouetted by the light, moved aside to let her in. They sat at the small table on the balcony. Aph held a cup of warm water but seemed far too preoccupied to drink. ¡°I have some things I haven¡¯t figured out,¡± Aph began, her gaze on Shia but distant, as if looking through him. Despite being more mature than Violet, some matters still left her puzzled. She couldn¡¯t understand why her sincere efforts for the princess had been met with anger. All afternoon and into the evening, Violet hadn¡¯t spoken a word to her. Aph¡¯s duty was to protect the princess. She was willing to bear all hardships for her, to help her grow stronger. Shia studied the older woman quietly. The first step in teaching was to help her unravel the knots in her heart. ¡°Aph, you care deeply about your princess, don¡¯t you?¡± Aph turned to him, unsure why he brought this up, but nodded. ¡°But hiding your feelings isn¡¯t the way to go,¡± Shia continued. ¡°When you hide your true thoughts while claiming it¡¯s ¡®for her own good,¡¯ it sounds a lot like a parent¡¯s lecture. That¡¯s not something a child¡ªor in this case, the princess¡ªcan easily understand.¡± Aph hesitated. She understood his words on some level, but they felt vague. Her role was to protect the princess, to nurture her, and even to enlist Shia¡¯s help in honing her. Yet, if the princess learned about her pact with Shia, she¡¯d surely feel betrayed. Shia guided her step by step, helping Aph realize her actions, though well-meaning, were misunderstood. Finally, Aph began to grasp his point. ¡°Are you saying¡ my way of expressing things is the problem?¡± Shia nodded approvingly. ¡°Take this afternoon as an example. What were you trying to express?¡± ¡°That I was willing to take the punishment for her.¡± ¡°And how did she respond?¡± ¡°Why would you take my punishment?¡± Aph opened her mouth but faltered. To her, it was a given¡ªher duty as a royal guard was to protect her liege from all harm, even humiliation. Shia sighed, pressing his fingers to his forehead. ¡°Isn¡¯t it because you care about her, want her to be happy, and can¡¯t bear to see her suffer?¡± Aph froze, her ears reddening. It felt like overstepping her role to admit such feelings toward her mistress. ¡°If that¡¯s how you feel, why not tell her directly?¡± Aph hesitated again. ¡°I¡ how could I say that out loud?¡± ¡°If you don¡¯t, she¡¯ll never know,¡± Shia said calmly. ¡°She already views me as an adversary, which is fine¡ªthat¡¯s my role. But you? You¡¯re supposed to care about her. If your actions make it seem like you¡¯re defying her orders, how can she possibly feel happy?¡± Aph felt a wave of shame wash over her. ¡°She can¡¯t.¡± ¡°So, you need to express what¡¯s in your heart. Only then can she understand. Got it?¡± Aph¡¯s eyes lit up with newfound clarity. ¡°I understand.¡± ¡°Good. Now, imagine I¡¯m Violet. Tell me what¡¯s in your heart.¡± Aph stared at him, mustering her courage. Her face flushed redder the longer she hesitated, and under Shia¡¯s encouraging gaze, she finally stammered, ¡°I¡ I just want the best for you.¡± Shia sighed. ¡°Could you just say you care about her?¡± Aph blushed deeper, her voice low but resolute. ¡°I¡ I care about you.¡± After repeated practice, Aph eventually managed to fluently say, ¡°I worry about you. I don¡¯t want you to suffer, so I want to share the burden.¡± Though not perfect, it was a significant improvement. --- As the lesson concluded, Aph noticed Shia¡¯s empty cup. She reached out and took his hand, her expression sincere. ¡°I¡¯m more and more convinced you¡¯re a good person. Thank you!¡± Shia blinked. ¡°Wait, what? A ¡®good person¡¯ card out of nowhere?¡± Standing at the door, Aph pushed aside a stray strand of hair, her movements carrying an added allure. She leaned closer, pressing herself lightly against him. Her ample chest pushed against him, the soft, plush sensation momentarily taking his breath away. It was then Shia realized Aph¡¯s attire was different tonight. She wore a flowing black chiffon gown, its fabric swaying gently in the night breeze. The dress highlighted her tall, curvaceous figure, her commanding presence softened by an ethereal beauty that made her look like a princess herself. Aph closed her eyes and kissed him softly. When she pulled away, she whispered, ¡°That was my first kiss.¡± Chapter 130: The Princess on the Verge of Breakdown Chapter 130: The Princess on the Verge of Breakdown Her voice was husky and magnetic. She wanted to taste what this felt like. On her beautiful face, a mix of innocence and desire was apparent. Though her movements seemed clumsy and inexperienced, her actions were bold beyond belief. Aph locked eyes with Shia, her expression sincere. ¡°This life, I¡¯ve sworn to be the sword and shield that protects Princess Violet.¡± Her sudden declaration of loyalty left Shia slightly baffled. Was she practicing her confessions with him as a stand-in for Violet? Aph¡¯s lips curved slightly into a smile. ¡°So, in this lifetime, I suppose I won¡¯t be meeting any other men.¡± Her voice deepened, carrying an ambiguous tone. Shia returned her gaze, noticing the layered meanings in her eyes. Aph leaned in closer, her voice dropping even lower. ¡°At least, when I¡¯m with you, I feel at ease...¡± Her sentence dissolved into silence as her lips parted slightly, brushing against his. This time, unlike before, her kiss carried a new level of intimacy, her technique far more daring. Shia couldn¡¯t help but feel like he was becoming the stereotypical golden-haired homewrecker, stealing affection away. Wasn¡¯t his original intent to do good? How had he ended up sabotaging friendships between close sisters instead? --- With Shia¡¯s guidance, when Aph faced Violet again, something about her had changed. She now understood that sometimes, things were better said out loud. ¡°Your Highness.¡± Aph knelt on one knee, bowing her head low. Violet looked at her knight with a mix of frustration and annoyance. She had always considered Aph a good sister, but Aph¡¯s excessive deference to their roles made her uncomfortable and upset. Violet pursed her lips, turning slightly away in a sulky display of childish defiance. ¡°Your Highness, everything I¡¯ve done has truly been for your sake.¡± Aph¡¯s tone was stiff and awkward, but then Shia¡¯s words echoed in her mind: to be honest, to express her feelings clearly. Violet, however, felt even more aggrieved at those words. Just as she was about to lash out, Aph continued speaking. ¡°Your Highness, my aim is to help you become someone worthy of wearing the crown.¡± The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation. Aph raised her head, meeting Violet¡¯s gaze. The princess hesitated, her expression still tinged with resentment and grievance, but curiosity and confusion began to seep in. The dissatisfaction, anger, and frustration in her eyes seemed to lessen slightly. Aph¡¯s heart pounded. Could she really say all of this? Under Violet¡¯s questioning gaze, she gathered her courage and began to list Violet¡¯s shortcomings. ¡°Your Highness, your life has been smooth and privileged, and your noble status has often made you lose empathy for others.¡± ¡°If you were merely a noble lady, this wouldn¡¯t be a major issue. But as a ruler, you need to be inclusive, patient, and adept at strategic compromise.¡± ¡°Your Highness, you¡¯re too proud. While personal excellence is important, a ruler also needs the recognition and love of the people.¡± ¡°For some time now, I¡¯ve seen changes in you. You¡¯ve learned to endure temporarily, and your temperament has softened considerably.¡± ¡°Your Highness, seeing you grow day by day makes me happier than anyone else.¡± ¡°Your Highness, I want to protect you, to help you improve, and to truly be your sword and shield.¡± Though her delivery was still somewhat awkward, Aph managed to convey everything she wanted to say. Violet was visibly moved by the sincerity in Aph¡¯s gaze. Aph wasn¡¯t just her loyal knight; she was also a caring elder sister. Violet opened her mouth as if to speak but hesitated. She couldn¡¯t bring herself to be as honest as Aph. Instead, she shifted her gaze slightly, stepping forward to help Aph to her feet. ¡°Hmm, I know.¡± At the critical moment, the tsundere princess faltered. She couldn¡¯t muster the courage to openly admit her feelings. Their gazes met, and though Violet couldn¡¯t put her emotions into words, the bond and understanding between them brought smiles to their faces. Their friendship was restored. Everything seemed to be going smoothly, but¡ ¡°Aph, I still think you should stay away from that villain. I don¡¯t want him to hurt you.¡± Violet held Aph¡¯s hands tightly, her tone filled with concern. Being bullied by that man was her burden to bear alone. There was no way she¡¯d let her dear Aph share in such humiliation. Aph hesitated, her expression blank and uncertain, a faint blush creeping onto her face. ¡°Your Highness, I¡ I don¡¯t think he¡¯s a bad person.¡± Violet¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°Not a bad person? He¡¯s already done¡ ''those'' things to me, and you still think he¡¯s good?¡± Violet¡¯s frustration grew. She clung to Aph¡¯s hands, her warnings becoming more insistent. ¡°Aph, don¡¯t let his handsome face deceive you. He may seem gentle and polite on the surface, but he¡¯s absolutely terrible deep down.¡± ¡°Your Highness, I think you¡¯ve misunderstood him. He¡¯s actually a good man.¡± Aph¡¯s gaze dropped to her toes, but her view was blocked by her ample chest. Violet hesitated, looking at the bashful knight, and felt an unspoken frustration rising in her chest. ''Do you even know what he¡¯s done to me!?'' Yet Violet couldn¡¯t bring herself to say it out loud. Their recently mended friendship cracked again over their differing views of Shia. Violet remained steadfast in her belief that Shia was nothing but trouble and hoped her dear Aph would steer clear of him to avoid being hurt. Meanwhile, Aph truly believed Shia was a good person. He had helped her so much without asking for anything in return. How could Violet¡¯s impression of him be changed? Aph pondered deeply until a daring idea sprouted in her mind. Perhaps, if she made Shia her man, Violet wouldn¡¯t reject him anymore? The more she thought about it, the more feasible the plan seemed. --- That night, Violet had a nightmare. In her dream, her beloved sister and cherished friend Aph appeared before her¡ªwith a pregnant belly. ¡°How could Aph be pregnant!?¡± Violet¡¯s disbelief was written all over her face as she stared at Aph¡¯s rounded form. As Violet stood there, stunned and thunderstruck, Aph spoke sweetly, her voice filled with happiness. ¡°Your Highness, I¡¯ve found true love, and I¡¯m expecting a baby. Soon, I¡¯ll have a happy family.¡± ¡°No!¡± Violet¡¯s mind reeled, struggling to accept this. But Aph wasn¡¯t done speaking. ¡°My feelings for you remain as deep as ever, Your Highness, so I want to share my joy with you. Allow me to introduce my man to you.¡± With those words, Aph turned to look behind her. Violet¡¯s gaze followed. From the shadows, the silhouette of a young man emerged, slowly stepping into view. As the figure approached, Violet froze in shock. How could it be¡ him!? The young man stepped up to Aph¡¯s side, their hands intertwining effortlessly. They exchanged a warm smile, their connection brimming with sweetness and understanding. After sharing a loving glance, the pair turned to look at Violet together. Violet felt as if she had plunged into an icy abyss, her body paralyzed as if by a spell. She couldn¡¯t move, couldn¡¯t speak. The world around her seemed to collapse as she plummeted into an endless void. Yet, those two remained, their heads slightly tilted, faces glowing with bliss, staring at her. ¡°No! No, no, no!¡± This can¡¯t be happening. This absol utely can¡¯t be real! ¡°NO!¡± Violet bolted upright in bed, gasping for air. The room was dimly lit, the only source of light a small night lamp in the corner, casting soft illumination across the space. Her wide eyes darted around, taking in the familiar surroundings of her bedroom. Relief washed over her as she realized it had only been a dream. She lifted a trembling hand to wipe the cold sweat from her forehead. Her body was sticky and damp, her nightgown clinging to her skin. But the remnants of the dream lingered, leaving her with an unsettling unease. Aph, her beloved sister figure, appearing before her with a swollen belly was bad enough. But the fact that her partner was ''that'' despicable Shia? The thought of him made Violet¡¯s emotions spiral. What did she feel for Shia? Hate, fear¡ and something else buried deep within. He had stolen her pride, humiliated her on multiple occasions, and yet, the feeling of being powerless against him stirred something unfamiliar in her. Shia was the only one who treated her as an equal, disregarding her status as a princess. Everyone else revered her with awe and deference. Only he looked her in the eye and showed no hesitation in challenging her. The mixture of anger, fear, and something unnameable gnawed at her. Unconsciously, Violet placed a hand on her chest, her large breasts obscuring the sound of her rapid heartbeat. What was this feeling? Displeasure at Aph being involved with her hated rival? Or something more personal, something that felt like a violation of her territory? The emotions were too complex, too tangled to unravel. Especially when she thought about Aph¡¯s attitude toward Shia. It troubled her to no end. "How did that villain manage to deceive my dear sister like this?" But one thing was crystal clear in Violet¡¯s mind: She had to protect Aph from him.