Category: Second Time Around, the Villainous Daughter Decides to Indulge First

Chapter 65: Blood-Red Crimson

The deal was struck.

Before leaving, Lena admired Vanessa’s long, dark blue hair, clicking her tongue. “Such beautiful hair, it’s a pity it was cut…”

Vanessa: “What do you mean?”

Lena: “Nothing, just don’t forget our agreement. Everything is for our sister.”

“My sister, not yours,” Vanessa corrected, frowning.

“Fine, let’s try again. For your sister, and for my wife.”

Lena dodged the flying teacup, but not the splashing tea. Wiping her face, she remained unfazed, smiling brightly. “Girls shouldn’t resort to violence.”

“But violence often solves most problems, including you.”

Vanessa exhaled, shifting her seated position, rubbing her numb feet.

Talking to Lena was truly exhausting… or rather, infuriating…

“Very beautiful.” Lena hadn’t left yet, poking her head back in, her gaze drifting towards Vanessa’s skirt. “Lovely shape, just like your sister’s.”

“Where are you looking?!” Vanessa snapped, her ample bosom heaving beneath her robes.

A true example of “baby face, giant breasts,” Vanessa was a testament to natural talent.

“Don’t be angry, beautiful bookworm. You can look at mine too. I believe in reciprocation.”

Lena lifted her skirt slightly, revealing her long legs in thin, patterned black stockings, a ruler leading to a forbidden territory, hinting at her promiscuous nature. “If you’re interested, you can come find me anytime. I’m happy to help any girl with an adventurous spirit. Of course, it would be even better if you came with Angel…”

“Get out of my room! Now!!”

Vanessa couldn’t tolerate it any longer.

“What kind of reciprocation is this?! Angel must be blind to like someone like you!!”

This time, Lena truly left the Cavendish residence.

Looking at the unfamiliar streets outside, Lena thought she should ask that little beauty to teleport her back.

But three strikes and you’re out. Lena gave up.

Taking a stroll was nice, a way to relax and clear her mind, and she could wait for Mines to pick her up…

…

“A name for the organization? Master wants her own forces?”

“Indeed.”

Sitting in the carriage, Lena leaned against Mines’s shoulder, asking for her opinion. “I need to create a hidden blade to help the Falmouths escape the Eye of the Empire’s surveillance. Any ideas?”

Her eyelids felt heavy, a pleasant citrus fragrance filling her nostrils.

“I can’t help you with that… but Master, can you please stop sniffing my hair while making puppy-like panting sounds?”

Lena’s hot breath made Mines blush. She then expressed her true intentions, “Master can just push me down right now, rip my stockings, I’ll do everything to satisfy your desires…”

She unbuttoned her feather dress, revealing her pale, almost translucent skin, her ribs visible beneath her flat chest, strangely alluring in the dim light of the carriage.

“You can try it, Master, I’m quite delicious, no worse than Miss Angel…”

Lena: “…”

Good heavens, did Mines know what she was saying?

The drenched dove from yesterday had transformed into a bold bird. Lena’s reason was crumbling…

“Ahem, we’re getting off track, Mines,” Lena said, flustered by Mines’s directness. “We have more important things to do. How about we save the ‘serving’ for tonight?”

“But that’s not what Master said. Last night, I saw Master lost in passion, while I, out of fear, became a cowardly lizard.”

Mines blamed herself for her timidity. She should have seized the opportunity and become Lena’s outlet.

Not only to forge a connection with Lena, but also to repay her kindness.

She couldn’t live without Lena’s gentleness anymore…

The Master who provided her with food and shelter, who forced her to eat, who resisted her desires and hadn’t resorted to violence, and the incredibly gentle Master before her…

This was her Master, hers alone.

At least for now…

Mines sat on Lena’s lap, her hands clasped over her slightly protruding chest, her expression conveying her heartfelt emotions despite her lack of eloquence, her shyness making her even more adorable.

“No matter what others think of you, Master, no matter how much they hate you, I will always be by your side, so…”

“So you want to offer your first time here?” Lena frowned. “Don’t you think it’s too hasty?”

Sunshine, beaches, neon lights… Mines could choose a much better location, not the cramped confines of a magic carriage.

“My body may be ugly compared to others, but if Master doesn’t mind, I don’t mind. My dear Master, would you take my humble virginity, which I have kept for eighteen years?”

Mines swallowed, gazing intently at Lena, her red eyes clouded, like a bottomless abyss.

“I’m willing to offer you everything, you just need to say the word, any word…”

Lena’s hand traced Mines’s smooth, slender back. She didn’t answer immediately, her gaze fixed on the heart shape Mines had formed with her hands. Lena leaned forward and kissed the center of it.

Like a vacuum, her lips sucked at the scarred skin, a strange, almost erotic sight.

Pop~

Lena licked her lips, a satisfied smile on her face. “Has anyone ever told you you’re very seductive?”

“Eh…!”

Mines gasped, her eyes closing tightly as Lena pulled away, as if enduring great pain.

“Mines, that was the most beautiful confession I’ve ever heard, I swear it on the demons.” Lena lifted her head. “And because of your confession, I’ve thought of a name for our organization…”

“Our.”

Mines savored the word, her heart filled with joy.

“Yes, you’ll also join the ‘Dove’s Flock.’ Doves symbolize unity, loyalty, family harmony, freedom, and equality.” Lena nodded, picking up the red feather dress and helping Mines put it on. “From now on, consider the ‘Dove’s Flock’ your home. I’ll be the lead dove, and you’ll be my second-in-command, understand?”

The carriage rattled along, its wheels rolling.

As they went over a bump, Mines fell into Lena’s arms, her tongue slipping past Lena’s lips, tentatively exploring her heart for the first time.

“I like you so much… Master… more… please…”

Her soft, almost sickly voice echoed in the carriage, the crimson flower in her hair seeming to respond to her emotions, its color deepening, becoming even more alluring.

A blood-red crimson, as if about to devour the endless gray haze.

Chapter 64: Vanessa, the Creator

Saint Lorenzo Magic Academy had a long and storied history, boasting the largest and most luxurious library in the world, rivaled only by the “Golden Library” on the west coast and Mr. Y’s private collection, the “Crystal Cave.” All were forbidden places for ordinary people.

Silence reigned in the library.

A frail-looking girl in a black uniform sat atop a mountain of books, her mind adrift in a sea of knowledge.

Her eyelids almost touched the pages, yet her eyes darted across the text, rapidly absorbing the information.

Finishing a page, a ray of sunlight fell upon her hair, illuminating her slender, jade-like neck. Her long, dark blue hair cascaded down the pile of books to the floor like a waterfall.

“I had a bad feeling this morning, but I didn’t expect misfortune to find me. How unlucky…”

She muttered to herself, her back to the newcomer, closing the heavy magic book on her lap and jumping down from the stack.

She stumbled, her attempt at a cool dismount failing, almost twisting her ankle in front of Lena.

“What are you laughing at?”

Vanessa possessed a beauty that rivaled Angel’s, especially the tear mole at the corner of her eye, adding a touch of allure.

It contrasted sharply with her aloof and ethereal demeanor.

“Are we not allowed to laugh in the library?”

Lena wasn’t accompanied by anyone, as if she had come to meet an old friend, showing the utmost respect. “It’s been a while, Vanessa.”

She kissed the back of Vanessa’s hand, eliciting goosebumps.

Seeing this amusing reaction, Lena smiled faintly.

“Do we know each other?”

Vanessa frowned, searching her memory, but found nothing about Lena.

Who was this wild child? Well, a beautiful, unruly wild child…

Her long, dark hair flowed freely behind her, like the princess in a certain animated film, her ethereal beauty and aloofness outshining any seductive vixen.

A classic beauty, albeit a younger version…

“This is our first meeting, Junior Vanessa, but I’ve read your work. It’s a pity it was banned by the empire.”

Lena feigned regret, as if mourning the loss.

“But I brought a copy, hoping to discuss the content on page 1246 with you, just the two of us.”

“Page 1246?”

A golden gate opened in Vanessa’s mind, bathing her in a warm glow as she searched her memory palace for the answer.

Lena sat atop a tall stack of books, casually flipping through one, seemingly engrossed in its contents.

After a moment…

Vanessa’s deep black eyes opened slowly.

“I never wrote that page, Lena Falmouth. Are you playing with me?”

Although unsure of Lena’s intentions, Vanessa wasn’t easily provoked. Faced with harassment, she had her own solutions.

“If you don’t come down and apologize, you’ll experience the feeling of falling from a great height and being roasted by lava. Think carefully before you answer.”

“Wow…”

Lena gasped dramatically, feigning fear.

Vanessa’s eyes remained fixed on Lena, her hands silently preparing a spatial transfer spell. If Lena made any sudden moves, she wouldn’t hesitate—she’d sink the entire library into the ocean’s depths in an instant.. “I hate repeating myself. If you weren’t the young lady of the Falmouth family, you would already be swimming in the fetid mud of the Sasse Marshes… filthy maggot.”

“Tsk, it seems our first impressions of each other aren’t very favorable.”

Lena’s lips twitched at the sudden insult.

This little girl’s sharp tongue was formidable.

No wonder no one liked her, only that frigid hero would accept her, and even then, it was a forced marriage.

It was said that the hero was devoid of desire, so even after marriage, Vanessa’s love life remained stagnant.

It seemed to be true.

A sexually frustrated old maid, how could she have a good temper?

“Shall we talk somewhere else?”

Lena was wary of Vanessa’s spatial magic. One wrong move, and she could be banished to some desolate wasteland. She had experienced its power in her past life…

“I know a nice place. I want to talk to you about your sister.”

“Angel?!”

Vanessa’s usually expressionless face showed a hint of surprise.

Lena quickly caught it, teasing, “It seems you already know everything. But as her older sister, you wouldn’t object to her relationship, would you?”

“Let’s talk somewhere else.”

Vanessa gritted her teeth, activating her spatial magic.

The scene shifted, the world around them changing, the wooden floor beneath their feet transforming into a black and white checkered pattern.

Lena felt a wave of dizziness, unable to open her eyes, her body as if being pulled apart from all directions. She was forced to activate her Mana Surge form to withstand the turbulent spatial currents.

“I thought you would be more disheveled.”

Vanessa poured a cup of black tea for the half-human, half-demon Lena.

She only drank black tea, so that’s all she had to offer guests, although Vanessa was extremely reluctant to let this gray devil into her home.

“As expected of the Creator…” Lena chuckled softly, deactivating Mana Surge.

She gulped down the black tea, the taste mixing with the metallic tang of blood in her mouth.

“A rank four Creator, and you can already teleport two people simultaneously?”

“Yes.”

Vanessa didn’t deny it; her profession wasn’t a secret. Compared to Lena’s Mana Surge form, which had withstood the spatial turbulence, she was more worried about her sister’s safety.

“Angel, she… why does she like you…? She’s never been one to lie, you must have taken advantage of her kindness.”

“So certain it’s my fault?”

Lena drank several more gulps of tea, her throat finally feeling better, although her internal organs still ached.

She smiled. “Why don’t you ask Angel directly? Asking her face-to-face is better than asking an outsider like me.”

“She doesn’t want to talk to me.”

Vanessa, initially staring intently at Lena, suddenly deflated. “She hates me, I know. Because I never supported her hobbies or her career, even belittling her idol dreams in front of our father. She hates me…”

Vanessa stopped, as if regretting saying too much.

“What if I said I could help you reconcile with your sister?” Lena pounded her chest, realigning her disordered organs. “You must also want to talk to your sister, but seeing how neither of you is willing to make the first move, I think I have to step in.”

“You can?” Vanessa’s eyes widened in disbelief.

“Angel is head over heels for me, what do you think?”

Lena touched her lips, smiling languidly. “What if I succeed? I’d be happy to see you two reconcile. After all, she’s my girlfriend, and she’s been moping around ever since she found out you were back. It’s annoying, so I came to find you.”

Vanessa: “…”

Honestly, she was slightly tempted.

But this was Lena, a master of manipulation. Could she be trusted?

“So, what’s the price?” Vanessa asked cautiously.

Lena: “A small favor, insignificant for a skilled Creator like you.”

Chapter 63: Caution

“Well said!”

The flattery made young Diana beam. “What’s your name? Tomorrow, you’ll replace Vermin. Stay by my side. I need talented people like you, not a bunch of incompetent fools!”

“Ah! Your Highness!”

Vermin, standing beside them, hadn’t expected to be replaced so easily. He protested, “I’ve been with Your Highness for so long, am I not as good as this newcomer?!”

“Shut up, weakling! I feed you, I clothe you, and you can’t even bark when I tell you to bite. What use are you?!”

Diana was fed up with these idiots; together, they weren’t as useful as Caramy’s silver tongue.

“Useless! Idiots! You dare bark at me? Get out of my sight!!”

The furious little princess even forgot her favorite “weakling” insult, a testament to her followers’ incompetence.

“Please calm down, Your Highness. I am Caramy Godfrey, and it’s my honor to be Your Highness’s dog.”

“Mm, you’re quite clever! Very enthusiastic, you have potential!”

Diana wanted to pat Caramy’s shoulder, but her hand stopped mid-air, unable to reach. She awkwardly left it there.

Caramy understood and half-knelt, allowing the ritual to proceed.

“But it doesn’t matter if you’re a dog or not. I want that weakling to become my footstool, understand?”

“Of course, I’m willing to offer my wisdom and go through fire and water for Your Highness,” Caramy said with a smile.

From afar, Lena overheard their conversation.

The naive princess didn’t realize she had already exposed her secrets to Lena, nor did she know that the lackey offering her advice was actually Lena’s subordinate.

Diana was talented in managing internal affairs, but only on a national scale.

Her age was her only weakness, and Lena intended to exploit this, both mentally and physically.

She couldn’t let this tiger return to the mountain; Lena had witnessed Diana’s future power.

The Eye of the Empire intelligence organization alone covered half the world, the information it gathered providing immense benefits to the hero’s party, some even invaluable, the core of their operations.

Lena didn’t want Diana to become an obstacle to her revenge, so she had to be cautious and ruthless.

Mercy to the enemy was cruelty to oneself. One “Angel” was enough.

Lena would make Diana pay for the suffering she had endured in her past life, tying her to the bed and playing with her little feet!

Whether she cried or laughed, begged or screamed, Lena was determined to have her way with Diana’s white-stockinged feet.

“Master, your smile is terrifying.”

“Do I look like a devil?”

“…Well, I haven’t seen a devil, but a devil probably isn’t as beautiful as Master, so I don’t think so.”

“Such sweet words.”

“My lips aren’t the only sweet thing, my Master. You can taste even sweeter places… my dearest Master…”

“You’re irresistible, kiss~”

…

Meanwhile, Caramy delivered his prepared speech:

“I’ve investigated. To deal with Lena, my schemes alone aren’t enough. The key lies with Your Highness.”

“Me?” Diana listened with boredom, her toes tapping the ground.

Her delicate feet, clad in lace ankle socks, were adorned with light pink lolita-style heels. As a gentle breeze blew, her skirt fluttered, revealing long, slender legs that would make any foot fetish enthusiast drool. The pink ribbons tied around her thighs were cute and alluring.

Diana’s appearance on the Imperial Beauty Ranking at such a young age wasn’t solely due to her status as a princess. Her reputation as the Imperial Flower wasn’t undeserved.

Her beauty alone had made her the youngest Imperial Flower in history, and coupled with her royal status, she was naturally the subject of widespread praise and publicity. So, among the commoners, there were many admirers of the Imperial Flower, while the second and third places paled in comparison.

However, Caramy wasn’t among them. He had been tormented by the cruel devil to the point of apathy. Even if a naked beauty stood before him, he wouldn’t bat an eye.

“Hmph~ As expected, I have to do everything myself. Otherwise, you incompetent weaklings wouldn’t understand my brilliance!”

Diana puffed out her chest, hands on her hips, her expression smug.

“Alright, tell me, what should I do? If you do well, I can make you a member of the Imperial Guard, a height ordinary people can only dream of reaching.”

She looked down at Caramy, increasingly satisfied with him.

Caramy suppressed the urge to slap the little brat, saying respectfully, “Your Highness, imagine if you could defeat Lena in her area of expertise, making that notorious figure completely submit to you, becoming your slave, your victory would become her lifelong nightmare.”

His proposal was good, filled with imagination.

But Diana wasn’t a fool, and she immediately became suspicious. “How am I supposed to fight her?! Has your brain been infected? How can I possibly defeat Lena?!”

Caramy broke out in a cold sweat. “Your Highness’s strength is undeniable…”

“What are you saying?!”

Diana’s voice rose, her suspicion turning into doubt.

“Uh, I mean…”

Caramy’s mind raced, flipping through the notes Lena had given him, which contained all the key points for dealing with Princess Diana. The most important one was “praise.”

And the praise had to be subtle, yet noticeable.

“I’m not suggesting Your Highness confront Lena directly. After all, Lena has already shown her disrespect by ignoring Your Highness’s invitation to the ball. Such an ignorant fool isn’t worth Your Highness’s personal attention!!”

“…”

“Your Highness can approach this from a different angle. Think about it, besides her professional rank, what else is Lena good at?”

“You mean…”

Diana’s eyes lit up, her violet eyes like a vast field of flowers.

“Yes, just as Your Highness has surmised.” Caramy, seeing the opportunity, presented two pills. “After taking the blue pill, Lena’s mind will be under Your Highness’s control. You can make her do anything. The red pill is for Your Highness to take; both are necessary. Of course, this is just my first plan, Your Highness can choose.”

“Heh, mind control, a trick played out by the powerful.” Diana took the pills, examining them. “Only two?”

“Two is enough,” Caramy said confidently.

“How can you ensure Lena will take it? And what if it doesn’t work on her?”

“Please rest assured, Your Highness. Except for those specializing in mental power, no one can resist mind control drugs. These prohibited drugs are originally used for patients with brain damage, to control their thoughts. When used on normal people, the effect only lasts for a day and doesn’t cause any serious side effects.”

Caramy explained, his throat feeling dry from reciting the long speech, especially while maintaining a facade of loyalty.

However, seeing that Diana still didn’t seem convinced, Caramy decided to switch to his backup plan.

Fortunately, Lena had given him a second option, so he wasn’t worried!

“As for how to make Lena take the drug, we need someone’s help.”

“Who?” Diana dropped the pills, her interest piqued.

Caramy smiled, the fish finally taking the bait. “A member of the hero’s party, Vanessa Cavendish.”

Chapter 62: The Petty Princess

Lena took a seat in the second-to-last row by the window.

A cushion was laid out, the desk wiped clean with a tissue, the desk drawer filled with fragrant roses, and a card adorned with flowery script: “To my beloved Master, from Mines.”

The rituals of life had to be observed.

Lena enjoyed the attentive service of her bodyguard, accepting the flowers with a smile.

Like being pursued by an ardent admirer, she didn’t have to lift a finger. Peeled fresh fruit was constantly brought to her lips, and a citrus-scented handkerchief gently wiped her mouth, a pair of blood-red eyes fixed on her.

“Why are you staring at me?” Lena glanced sideways, her lips curving into an alluring smile. “Is there something strange about my face?”

“No, Master… you’re beautiful… and there… is also beautiful.”

Mines’s voice was as pleasant as ever, reminding Lena of the wind chimes her father used to make back in the countryside, clear and melodious, with a lingering charm.

Indeed, worthy of Angel’s praise, her talent was exceptional.

“Although it’s a compliment, the subject isn’t to my liking.” Lena tapped Mines’s forehead, glancing around.

The annoying flies buzzing around her had been scared away by Mines.

She recalled the slender, black-haired girl holding a gun, expertly skewering fruit pieces with a small bamboo stick, urging Lena to open her mouth, then firing at the ceiling, her movements fluid and without hesitation.

And after seeing Lena eat the fruit she had prepared, Mines smiled dreamily.

Like a devout follower offering tribute to their god, and the god, in turn, delivered their divine decree.

“Idiot, put the gun away, you’re scaring everyone away.”

Mines had chosen a seat near the aisle, effectively trapping Lena against the wall. To prevent interruptions, she had brought several prohibited items into the classroom, a true outlaw.

But now, only a few students remained in the classroom, all thanks to the magic gun in Mines’s hand.

No one wanted to be held at gunpoint while attending class, especially by the notorious Lena, a walking disaster.

“Yes, Master…”

Mines obediently put the gun away, sitting upright, her gaze fixed on Lena, filled with admiration.

Ling Ling had told her a lot about Lena last night, the little fox girl singing Lena’s praises, effectively brainwashing Mines, who hadn’t slept a wink. Coupled with her existing affection, Mines’s heart had already been captured by Lena.

Lena also knew Mines’s feelings.

For her, the more beautiful girls, the better. She wouldn’t refuse anyone…

“I’ll give you a chance to prove yourself. Are you free…?”

Lena deliberately raised her chin, revealing her creamy white neck and alluring cleavage.

“No one can resist their instincts, even the most stubborn person will react. They usually disguise themselves well, making it hard to tell how aroused they are, hehehe~”

Lena imparted new knowledge to Mines, and Mines listened obediently, her eyes filled with adoration.

“Master… does this make you happy?”

Like a bird catching a worm, she added the final touch to Lena’s seduction.

After that, Mines asked with admiration, “Someone is watching outside the classroom, Master. Did you deliberately ask me to do this, or was it your intention all along…?”

“Throughout history, protagonists are always admired and adored, but there’s another kind of person, equally prominent, but universally disliked. Which one do you think I resemble?”

Lena deliberately left her hanging.

Her stocking-clad legs shifted, and their positions subtly changed.

Mines didn’t know how Lena had done it, but she mentally noted the technique.

“Well, it seems I asked a silly question… Let’s see which bird is foolish enough to fly into the eagle’s nest. As a villain, I must teach them a lesson.”

Just as she finished speaking, they heard a commotion at the door.

A girl with a purple ponytail, dressed in a flamboyant pink and white lolita outfit, appeared at the door, her expression haughty and arrogant, a condescending aura radiating from her.

Lena recognized her, a troublesome connection from her past life.

And the girl’s target was Lena, seemingly prepared.

“Such a weakling~ Big sister?~”

Diana approached, her voice dripping with condescension, followed by a familiar face.

“Pfft~ Does the weakling big sister have no friends? So pitiful, not even one person to accompany her to class, such a weakling~”

“Speak properly!” Lena glared.

“Ugh! I…” Diana faltered. “Why are you trying to steal my business? How did I offend you?! Weakling senior!”

Her sweet voice was incredibly tempting to bully.

Diana’s condescending act was effective only when she had the upper hand. Her family background had shielded her from defeat, countless people fearing her because of her status. However, facing the fearless Lena of this life, her title as Imperial Princess was merely a playful accessory.

“Your Highness has graced us with your presence for such a trivial matter?”

Lena wrapped an arm around Mines’s waist, her hand roaming beneath the thin fabric of her dress.

The material was so light, practically begging to be torn.

Stockings were truly the greatest invention, providing warmth while also giving rise to countless variations, becoming a source of pleasure.

“You know I like it when you dress like this, Mines is learning bad habits.”

“But Master seems to enjoy it.”

Mines’s soft voice pleased Lena even more.

And Diana, finally noticing the only other female beside Lena, felt like she had shot herself in the foot. “So, she does have a friend, I misjudged Senior Weakling… You! Why did you lie to me?! Are you playing with me?!”

She stormed out of the classroom, confronting her followers, who exchanged confused glances.

Only Caramy stepped forward to explain, “Your Highness, shouldn’t we be focusing on how to deal with Lena? She almost destroyed Your Highness’s arena, ruining your plans. To uphold the empire’s prestige, we should make Lena Your Highness’s personal plaything!”

Caramy spoke with conviction, sharing Diana’s indignation.

This easily earned him favor, and with the inaction of the other followers, Diana was even more convinced of her judgment.

To cure a headache, treat the head. Caramy was the perfect lackey!

She was determined to win him over!

Chapter 61: Playing the Game

A night of revelry.

Angel woke up with a sore back and aching waist, her beautiful eyes seemingly losing their color as she stared blankly at the other side of the bed.

The gray-haired beauty, like a devil incarnate, was sleeping soundly, the thin blanket outlining her exquisite figure.

Lying on her side, Angel had a clear view of the sight that made her blood boil.

Although she was reluctant to admit it…

They were simply too big.

And last night, their weight had broken through her last line of defense, drowning her in waves of pleasure.

She wouldn’t elaborate further; it was too embarrassing.

“So big, yet only used for this, hmph~”

Angel only dared to act tough when Lena was asleep.

After all, it was just talk.

She was competitive and wouldn’t admit defeat to Lena’s skills.

Who… who lost?!

She hadn’t lost!

Surrendering was only half a loss, so it didn’t count as a complete defeat!

And who was it crying and shouting for her sister to take revenge, only to be quickly disarmed, bound by three strands of Lena’s gray hair, like a kite dancing in the wind?

City people sure knew how to play.

Angel, from a declining noble family, had never experienced such things before. Recalling it now, her face flushed, her waist aching as if she had been beaten.

“Ugh… of course, you’re more skilled than my sister. You’re two ranks higher than her, how could she be your match…”

Angel also lay on her side, facing Lena, her beautiful face bare, yet still radiating a captivating charm. “But, my sister isn’t easy to provoke. If you mess with her, you’ll lose badly, I guarantee it.”

Vanessa had displayed exceptional intellect since childhood, possessing a photographic memory and a high IQ, earning her the title of “Human Library.”

She was a quiet and introverted literary girl, eloquent and refined.

Angel wondered what kind of sparks would fly if the unreasonable Lena and the eloquent Vanessa clashed.

Ugh, no, forget it…

She didn’t want her sister to be with this weirdo; it would shorten her lifespan!

The thought of her sister lying beside Lena made Angel’s skin crawl.

After all, a lustful devil wouldn’t care if you were an acquaintance, she would just pounce…

Miss Mines must have been tricked into bed by Lena using similar methods.

Poor thing…

The more Angel thought about it, the more depressed she became. She had finally found a potential talent, only to have Lena snatch her away. Lena, Lena, Lena, everyone was Lena’s, she seemed to be trapped in the “Lena vortex.”

“I wonder if there’s anyone in this world who can control you.”

Angel murmured, her consciousness fading…

When she woke up again, Lena was already out of bed, the empty space beside her still slightly indented, a faint fragrance lingering in the air.

“Where is she?” Angel sat up, combing her tangled pink hair in front of the bathroom mirror, strand by strand, grumbling, “She didn’t even wake me up, after I made her so comfortable!”

“Thinking about me so early in the morning, it seems Miss Angel hasn’t had enough fun yet.”

“Of course not.”

Angel pouted at her reflection in the mirror, as if disdaining Lena’s company.

Lena’s hair was also a mess.

It seemed they had gone at it too late last night, collapsing from exhaustion after venting their energies. Both of them looked terrible, with dark circles under their eyes.

“Is your waist still sore?”

Lena embraced Angel from behind, gently massaging her slender waist. “If you’re not feeling well, just take a leave of absence. Tell Professor Agnes, she’ll understand…”

“We both took leave yesterday, and now we’re taking leave again today. Are you trying to ruin my reputation?”

Angel had finally salvaged her image, she didn’t want her fans to think she was spending her days and nights with Lena.

Although it was true, she still didn’t want them to know!

“Hurry up and wash. I’ll wait for you downstairs. Are we going to the academy together or separately?” Lena asked softly.

“Separately, of course. My sister has transferred here, what if she sees us?” Angel didn’t want to reveal her relationship with Lena to Vanessa yet, for many reasons she couldn’t explain.

But Lena didn’t seem to care; she never cared about what others thought. “Just admit it if she sees us. It’s not like it’s the first time.”

“Ha… listen…” Angel sighed, turning to face Lena, pulling at the loose collar of her shirt.

The buttons popped open, revealing a large expanse of Lena’s fair skin, but neither of them cared.

Lip to lip, face to face, a seemingly domineering kiss, but just a centimeter apart.

Angel looked into Lena’s eyes, her expression unprecedentedly serious. “I’m an idol, and idols aren’t allowed to date. Don’t challenge my professionalism with your hobbies, understand?”

Lena paused, then nodded stiffly.

Angel released her, relieved by her sudden burst of courage.

Fortunately, nothing happened.

Lena wasn’t angry and didn’t order her to bend over the vanity, a stroke of luck.

Oh god, how did she dare talk back to Lena?!

She must be crazy!!

…

The 9:30 assembly bell rang.

The Crown Bell, hidden among the lush ivy, was once again bathed in the sound of new students.

Almost every year, young boys and girls gathered beneath the ancient bell, their faces filled with youthful energy.

Today was the official start of the academic year, and the day the new students sang the school anthem together.

Wonderful.

Lena walked past the new students, glancing back. Most of them were captivated by her beauty, their voices off-key.

Such a beautiful senior!

Which department is she from?

Love at first sight, let’s get married!

A few looked at the black-haired girl following behind Lena, her unusual hair color unheard of in the empire.

“Are you nervous?”

“A little, Master.”

Mines was still wearing the red feather dress from yesterday, like a dove with folded wings, her eyes scanning their surroundings vigilantly.

The stiff black suit jacket covered the unsightly scars on her back, the red spider lily in her hair as vibrant as blood, wild and captivating.

Matching her eye color and her independent, serious demeanor.

“Thanks to Master, I’ve seen you again, and I can even attend this dream academy.”

“So, shouldn’t you repay my kindness?” Lena joked.

Mines thought for a moment, then gently cupped Lena’s face with her gloved right hand. Before all the new students, she kissed Lena’s lips, gently biting, leaving a faint mark, incredibly seductive.

“…”

“Master’s lips… are very fragrant…” Mines’s blood-red eyes flickered, her hand touching her cheek, a blush spreading across her face.

What the hell!

She had been kissed!

Lena stared blankly.

Huh?

Kissed?!

The new students were stunned.

They hadn’t expected to witness such a sensational scene on their first day… This elegant, gray-haired senior was actually the submissive one?!

This…

This ship has sailed…

Chapter 60: I Want Them All

In the rain-swept night, the quiet mansion glowed warmly, the aroma of food enticing.

Lena raised her glass. “A busy and fruitful day should always end with fine wine and good company. Outside, the wind and rain rage, but here we are, listening to soothing music. What obstacle can’t be overcome…?”

“Can you stop with the cheesy lines?”

“It’s part of my rehabilitation plan. Didn’t you say you wanted to purify me? This is a crucial step in purifying an evil devil.”

“So, are you going to put me down?” Angel asked, looking back from her perch on Lena’s lap.

Lena smiled. “That’s not possible, but I can feed you.”

She brought the food to the pure and innocent little angel’s lips.

Angel pouted, refusing to eat. “If an angel accepts food from a devil, she’ll fall from grace.”

“Fall from grace and stay in hell with me forever…”

“What did you say?”

“Nothing, eat.”

Lena continued to smile, seemingly finding great satisfaction in teasing Angel, especially in forcing her to do things against her will, a sense of dominance and conquest.

“Mines, aren’t you eating?”

Noticing the black-haired girl at the end of the table holding food but not eating, Lena put down the berry pie. Angel missed her bite, her resentful look amusing Lena.

“Master, I don’t have much of an appetite…” Mines said softly. “I already had dinner before coming here. Can I take it home? I’ll definitely eat it with gratitude, Master.”

“No,” Lena refused flatly. “Eat it now, all of it!”

“But…” Mines swallowed, the temptation of the delicious food evident, but the seemingly frail girl possessed an unshakeable resolve.

Imagine living on meager meals, barely surviving on scraps, and now a plate of fragrant berry pies is placed before you, inviting you to eat freely. Most people wouldn’t be able to resist.

But Mines remained indifferent.

She wanted to eat, but for various reasons, she couldn’t…

One bite, and she might never forget the taste, might become attached to Master’s kindness, might find the darkness of her heart amplified by the glimpse of light…

“You don’t want to see your siblings go hungry, do you?”

“Eh?”

“How can you be my bodyguard if you don’t eat your fill? I’ll not only make sure you eat your fill at every meal, but I’ll also fatten you up, hehehe~”

Lena waved her hand, and Mines reluctantly reached for a berry pie, its sweet aroma filling her nostrils, awakening her long-dormant appetite.

This was probably going to upset her stomach…

With this uneasy thought, Mines opened her mouth. “Ahh… mmm… hmm?!”

So delicious!!

Mines’s blood-red eyes widened, and she looked at Lena in surprise. Lena smiled back, then continued eating.

“Right? Mary’s pies are the best in the world. Even I can’t resist having them at least once a month.”

Biting into the soft crust, the orange-red jam oozed out, melting in her mouth, leaving a lingering sweetness. Dipping it in plum sauce was divine.

The slightly sour plum balanced the sweetness of the berries, creating a refreshing taste.

After the first bite, Mines was hooked, devouring the pie.

“Mmm… delicious…”

Her enjoyment was contagious, making the others also dig in.

…

After dinner, they sat down to talk.

Angel: “You didn’t go to class today…”

Lena: “Yes, did anyone call for me?”

“No.” Angel poked Lena’s breast with a finger, creating a small indentation. “I didn’t go to the academy either, I skipped class…”

“That’s rare.”

“Who are you calling rare?!”

“I’m saying it’s rare for a good girl like you to skip class…” Lena said, noticing Angel’s distracted look, a strange feeling rising within her, making her hold back her usual sarcasm. “What’s wrong? Did something happen at home?”

“More or less. My sister is back, and the house is in chaos. My father is planning a grand welcome for her…”

Angel tried to appear indifferent, but before Lena, she couldn’t hide her unease. “The money I painstakingly saved… hmph, forget it. My relationship with my sister isn’t good. I only lent him the money for her sake, as a gesture of reconciliation!”

Lena listened quietly, then said, “Vanessa Cavendish.”

“You know my sister?” Angel tilted her head, a cute expression on her face. “She’s already rank four, her spatial magic is amazing!”

“Of course.”

Lena chuckled, shaking her head.

Who didn’t know the Cavendish sisters, the hero’s right and left hands, and his fiancée.

She remembered being pursued by the hero’s party in her past life, eventually choosing suicide, dying in her desolate gray domain.

Lena knew Vanessa Cavendish’s worth; she was no less important than the hero himself.

“So, who do you think is stronger, Vanessa or me?”

“That’s…”

Angel hesitated, her eyebrows furrowing as she leaned against Lena, thinking.

Lena’s lap was warm and soft, her breasts exuding a calming lavender scent. Angel inhaled the fragrance, a tingling sensation spreading from her neck to her earlobes.

“Stop it, you’re distracting me!” Angel said coquettishly, her girlish shyness incredibly endearing.

“Seeing your CPU overloaded, I’m just helping you out.”

Lena chuckled, glancing at the black-haired girl playing chess with Ling Ling on the sofa.

“The rain has stopped, do you want me to send you back?”

“Ah.” Mines looked up, realizing Lena was talking to her. The wrinkles on her stocking-clad knees smoothed out as she stood up, light as a feather, replying softly, “Thank you, Master… and Ling Ling. Today was the most meaningful day of my life… Master.”

She repeated “Master” with emphasis, her eyes softening, her guard completely down.

“Ling Ling will see you off, Sister Mines.”

The little fox girl politely extended her tail towards Mines’s palm, and Mines hesitantly touched it, forming a bond of friendship.

They left the mansion together.

Now, there were no distractions.

“Can you please stop it!” Angel protested, pushing against Lena. “Don’t you want to know my answer?! Mmm!!”

Yes, Lena wanted to know, but she was more interested in how many beautiful melodies this soft, pink mouth could hum, making her heart tremble…

“I think the answer is obvious.” Lena began wiping her fingers with a wet wipe.

Recognizing this preparatory action, Angel became alert. “Wait! I haven’t admitted anything!”

“Then admit it on the bed while bending over?”

“That’s not fair! You’re bullying me while Ling Ling is away!”

Angel, trapped under Lena’s arm, whimpered, “It’s not fair, it’s not fair, put me down… I want…”

Huh?

Angel’s feet, previously dangling in the air, touched the ground. Her face was still tear-streaked, her expression confused.

“So, what do you want?”

Lena lifted Angel’s chin, her warm breath ruffling Angel’s bangs, revealing her smooth forehead.

“I want…” Angel, overwhelmed by Lena’s scent, finally regained her senses, her voice soft. “If my sister knew you were bullying me like this, she would never forgive you!!”

“Hmph.” Lena scoffed, her fingers curling into a fist, uttering words Angel would never forget…

“I want both of you sisters.”

Chapter 59: Let’s Poop Together Sometime

Small hands traced Lena’s delicate eyebrows, outlining the shape of her full lips.

Ling Ling’s soft, stocking-clad legs rubbed against Lena, fueling the fire within, yet the little fox girl remained oblivious, playing with fire, enjoying herself.

As the dying embers threatened to reignite, Lena almost grabbed the teasing tail and pounced.

White stockings increased attack speed, black stockings increased critical hit damage, so what did white-stockinged fox girl lolita increase?

“Finished your homework? Memorized the magic theory? How dare you relax when you haven’t learned anything?” Lena raised an eyebrow, feigning anger.

“Waaah… I’m sorry, Miss…”

Ling Ling hid behind Angel, her expression dejected.

She hated making Miss angry. Anger meant no cuddles, and Miss was scary when she was angry…

“Why are you scolding her?!”

Angel stepped forward protectively. “I saw that Ling Ling was tired from studying, so I told her to take a break, that’s why she came to you for cuddles. And you just dismissed all her hard work!”

With that, Angel tossed her pink hair, turned around, and patted Ling Ling’s head. “Don’t play with the devil, let’s go.”

Lena: “…”

Their relationship had become so close that Lena felt like an outsider, and why did it feel like a strict father and a doting mother?

Like a sulking wife taking her beloved daughter back to her parents’ home…

She was unhappy.

Especially with Angel’s attitude, what was she playing at? She was asking for it.

Lena wouldn’t apologize easily. The word “mistake” didn’t exist in her dictionary, only pages filled with “kill” and “ravage.”

Who would lower their head and apologize when they could solve things with violence and seduction?

“Are you having supper? I asked Mary to make a lot of berry pies, with extra berry jam. They’ll be ready soon.”

Lena’s languid voice drifted towards the departing duo.

Although not an apology, it was still a form of compensation.

And upon hearing about supper, Ling Ling, despite being pulled along by Angel, couldn’t help but stop.

She didn’t actually mind Lena’s scolding. Or rather, in her mind, everything Lena did was for her own good, so as long as there was a sliver of an opportunity to reconcile, Ling Ling would immediately transform back into a devoted fox.

“Ling Ling wants to eat with Miss.”

The little fox girl walked back, planting a quick kiss on Lena’s lips as an apology.

So close, almost hitting the bullseye, it looked like the little fox girl had taken the initiative, her tail wagging excitedly…

Ling Ling said softly, “From now on, Ling Ling will study harder and become the best maid for Miss, and never slack off again.”

“Good to know. Sit tight and wait, you can work hard after dinner.” Lena scratched Ling Ling’s chin, her eyes gentle.

A few words were all it took to appease the devoted fox; Lena’s manipulation skills were top-notch.

Even though Angel was reluctant, she could only sulk silently.

“Your authoritarian education is a complete failure,” she said.

“Don’t you think it’s a success?” Lena looked back at her, smiling. “With you helping me educate Ling Ling, and me disciplining her, a balanced approach, I believe she’ll grow up well.”

“…I… I don’t have that kind of ability.” Hearing the teasing tone in Lena’s voice, Angel stammered, her face flushing.

She stood up and paced around like a headless fly.

“Hey, where are you going? The snacks are almost ready.” Lena called out to her, winking seductively, her voice even gentler than before. “It’s still raining heavily, stay and keep me company tonight, okay?”

Okay?

She actually used “okay,” the devil actually asking for something.

“No way!”

Angel shouted, her cheeks puffed out.

Lena: “…”

Why was she being so stubborn? Was Angel always this petty?

It seemed so, but not to this extent.

In Lena’s impression, Angel was still that clingy, pure little idol, but the contrast between her on-screen persona, her real-life personality, and her behavior in bed was so stark that Lena couldn’t adapt.

It seemed Angel only acted this way towards her…

Oh, the little idol’s skin was itching, she needed a good lesson!

…

Lena, Lena, Lena, Lena, Lena!!

Would she die if she stopped for a day?!

Angel sat on the toilet, sulking, not actually needing to use it.

“I helped you, not to become your plaything… it’s just that you looked so helpless, I couldn’t help but want to help you.”

Angel muttered to herself, not noticing another figure approaching.

“H-hello.”

“Eek!”

Angel flailed, almost falling off the toilet.

Mines helped her up with her stocking-clad left hand, her wrist slender yet strong. “Careful, I just mopped the floor, it’s slippery.”

Her voice was as light as a feather, making Angel instinctively search for its owner.

Who could possess such a beautiful voice?

“Thank you.” Angel steadied herself against the sink, then noticing the maid uniform and patterned stockings, she couldn’t help but ask, “Are you a maid of the Falmouth family? You’re so pretty!!”

Truly beautiful.

People in Almeria rarely had black hair, making Mines’s hair color unique and perfectly matching Angel’s rebellious spirit and yearning for freedom.

A kindred spirit!!

Angel’s eyes lit up.

As an independent idol, she had an uncanny ability to spot potential talents in a crowd, like falling in love at first sight in a sea of faces!

“Become a school idol with me! You’ll be famous! You’ll definitely be a huge star!”

Angel’s excitement was uncontainable. “Can you sing? Can you dance? I can teach you! Within a year, we’ll be the empire’s hottest new idol group!”

Her impassioned speech interrupted Mines’s intention to ask for directions.

Mines waited patiently for Angel to finish, then thoughtfully offered her a glass of water. “I’m flattered that you would notice someone insignificant like me, but I’m already Master’s personal bodyguard, my body and soul belong to her. I’m so sorry…”

“Oh, you don’t have to apologize!”

Angel waved her hands apologetically. “I’m the one who should apologize, wasting your time, I’m so sorry!”

“No, it’s my fault.”

“Mine, mine!”

A trivial matter was blown out of proportion, like accidentally stepping on someone’s foot in an elevator. You never knew if their “no problem” actually meant “you’re welcome,” and they never knew if your “sorry” meant “thank you.”

They continued apologizing, each taking responsibility for the non-existent mistake.

Until…

“What’s all the commotion? Do you need to apologize for taking a shit?”

Lena squeezed between them, putting an arm around each of them. The two girls fell silent, blushing as they looked at her.

Chapter 58: The Rain Keeps Falling

“Master probably doesn’t know, I have twelve younger siblings. They are my most important family, they’ve been with me through the toughest times.”

Mines smiled. It was a beautiful smile, even more so if one ignored the scars on her back.

But even now, Mines still possessed a captivating fragility, making one want to embrace her, comfort her, protect her, and give her the world.

“A truly great mother,” Lena said, choosing her words carefully.

“You’re mistaken, Master. I don’t have a mother.”

Mines said sadly, but her eyes held no despair.

Lena’s worries eased; she realized the girl before her wasn’t as weak as she had thought. “So, you adopted all those children?”

“Well, some of them… the others…”

Mines curled her legs up, hugging them, and looked at Lena sideways.

That pose was incredibly feminine!

Lena couldn’t believe such an alluring gesture could come from a “little girl,” although Mines had said she was an adult.

“My Master…”

Her voice was always tinged with a soft melancholy, like the sound of black and white piano keys pressed by slender fingers, captivating and intoxicating. “Master, do you have any younger siblings?”

“I have an older brother.”

Lena thought of the commander of the empire’s magic fleet overseas, whom they affectionately called “Commander.” “I rarely see him, but he loves me very much. He often sends letters, filled with interesting stories from the sea…”

“Master’s brother must miss you very much, that’s why he writes to you.”

“Him…”

Lena’s smile was like the early summer sun as she recalled her brother. “A stubborn, hot-headed idiot, best not to mention him.”

Time flew by, the clock ticking, the rain intensifying, as if trying to wash them away.

It seemed she really had to see Mines off…

“Achoo~”

What was that sound?

Lena turned, searching for the source.

Mines bit her lip, her pale face betraying her distress, her trembling shoulders and the damp spot on the bed beneath her…

“Why are you still wearing that wet dress? Do you want to catch a cold?!”

“You gave it to me, Master.”

“…”

Lena looked at Mines, and Mines looked back, her red eyes shining like polished agate.

An awkward silence hung in the air.

Just as Lena was about to break the silence, Mines spoke softly, “Master is the first person who has been kind to me… The dress is beautiful, I like it very much…”

“You can’t keep wearing it while it’s wet.”

Lena reached out to tuck Mines’s hair behind her ear. The once coarse hair, after being treated with high-quality products, was now soft and smooth, like the little fox girl’s tail.

Her delicate earlobe flushed red under Lena’s gentle touch.

“I know you’re reluctant, consider it a loan.”

“Master…” Mines murmured, watching as Lena left the bedroom and returned with a few sets of light maid outfits.

These were Ling Ling’s old clothes, the perfect size for Mines.

“Mm, not bad.”

Lena nodded, appraising Mines.

“It would be better if the skirt was shorter… just enough to reveal a glimpse of her white bottom, tsk, tsk…”

Mines nervously clutched her skirt, trying to pull it down, her voice barely a whisper. “Master is lewd.”

“Lewdness is human nature, a bridge to a new world.”

Lena’s retort was swift, her serious yet nonsensical words sounding abrupt and flustered, as if she had just thought of them.

“Too skinny, you need to eat more meat.”

It sounded like a callous remark, but Lena quickly tossed a silver magic crystal card onto the bed. “There’s three months’ salary inside, consider it an advance. Buy yourself some good food and nourish yourself. You’re so thin, people will think I don’t feed my subordinates… who’s protecting whom?”

“Are you concerned about me, Master? I’m so happy…”

Mines carefully put away the card, holding it to her chest. “Thank you, on behalf of my siblings.”

“Wait, I want to watch you eat.” Lena’s gaze suddenly sharpened.

“Eh?”

“You’re definitely planning to buy a bunch of supplements for your family and starve yourself, aren’t you?!”

Lena seemed to see right through her, and Mines lowered her head, her blush spreading down her neck.

She fell silent again.

Why was she so shy after kissing Lena? After saying such seductive words, she wouldn’t even let Lena touch her.

Did she think of Lena as her secret crush?

Lena felt a surge of vanity.

But then she thought, a girl from the slums, covered in scars, with younger siblings to care for, anyone would hesitate to hire her, especially in a place like the empire, where status and identity were paramount.

Someone like Mines, unregistered and without a profession, faced even greater difficulties in finding work.

But Lena had given her hope, and Mines believed in the light…

In conclusion, offering herself wasn’t strange at all!!

Ahem, Lena thought she was getting carried away, quickly stopping her thoughts.

“You need to eat well to have the strength to care for others. You’re so weak, how can you feed your siblings?”

“But I don’t eat much, Master.”

“Eating less doesn’t mean not eating. Little dove, I’m ordering you, not asking for your opinion.” Lena’s domineering aura was irresistible, and Mines thought her Master was so cool, her heart warming.

“I’ve prepared supper. If you’re hungry, come downstairs. Remember to wear your stockings.”

Lena left the room with a meaningful glance.

Mines looked at the lacy black stockings on the bed, her face flushing even deeper.

Master… these weren’t just stockings…

She hurriedly picked them up, trying to figure out how to wear them…

Lena waited downstairs.

Leaning back in her armchair, she closed her eyes, her delicate hands folded in her lap, the sound of rain against the windows creating a peaceful scene.

Suddenly, a golden fox girl burst into the picture, wagging her tail happily, fearlessly climbing onto the seemingly statue-like gray-haired beauty.

Ling Ling’s voice was as clear as a bell. “Miss, Miss, Ling Ling learned something new today! Huh…? Miss?”

Chapter 57: A New Nest? A Love Nest!

Soft sounds came from the bathroom, the frosted glass revealing the slender silhouette of a girl.

Lena sat on the bed, the King of Narcissus back on her finger.

Without any cost, the newly adopted little dove had retrieved her treasure, as if it were only natural.

There was no surprise of recovery, Lena simply rubbed the ring with her fingertip, her gray eyes calmly watching Mines cleaning herself in the bathroom… ah, the soap slipped… it seemed the little dove wasn’t quite used to her new nest yet.

“Master, I’m finished washing.”

Mines emerged from the bathroom, holding her feather dress. She had cleaned herself and the soiled dress, so now she stood naked before Lena, unsure what to do.

Lena’s gaze swept over Mines’s body.

Truth be told, Mines was truly beautiful, her natural fragrance the most alluring Lena had ever encountered on a woman.

Aside from her short stature and the scars on her back, she was practically flawless.

Her skin was delicate and radiant, flushed with a healthy glow, her knees and elbows particularly enticing, and her eyes, always downcast with a hint of sorrow, resembled a pet dove, dependent on Lena for survival.

Such people often evoked a strong protective instinct in others, compelling them to serve her…

“Master, should I get dressed?”

“I usually don’t wear clothes at home.” Lena chuckled, like a rogue without a rogue’s demeanor. “If you’re not comfortable, do as you please.”

Mines nodded, putting on her still-damp feather dress, shivering slightly.

“Master’s home is so comfortable, with warm water and a nice bathtub… I hope to see you again tomorrow morning…”

“Have you made up your mind?” Lena stared into Mines’s blood-red eyes, her gaze drawn to the artificial flower headband.

A spider lily in perpetual bloom, just like the girl herself, captivating, disastrous, carrying an ominous beauty of death and separation.

This was the red spider lily, the flower of the other shore, blooming brilliantly, waiting for me, and waiting for you.

“Yes.”

Mines replied softly, bowing to Lena.

Just as she was about to leave, a languid voice stopped her.

“You’re leaving just like that?”

“Ah, Master…”

Lena scooped Mines up into her arms, as light as a feather, even lighter than Lena had imagined.

“How long did it take you to get here, half an hour?”

“Twenty minutes… Master, please don’t do this.”

Mines’s trembling voice betrayed her nervousness, but the expected aversion didn’t come. Even Mines was surprised.

She was sensitive to any physical contact, a fact long established, but Lena’s embrace brought her a strange sense of peace. She hadn’t been treated like this since leaving Cabaliga.

Lena set her down on the soft bed.

“You’ll get it wet!”

“I’ll change the sheets.”

Lena’s assertive tone made Mines hesitate.

After a moment, she chuckled softly. “Are you trying to corrupt me, Master?”

Who are you?!

Lena was startled. The black-haired girl before her seemed like a different person. Lena leaned closer, but it was the same nose, the same eyes, what had changed?

It must be an illusion brought on by lust.

Mm-hmm.

“I mean, at least wait until the rain stops. You just took a bath, running back out into the rain is foolish.” Lena wanted to have sex, but she wasn’t indiscriminate. Being picky was a necessary step. “If you really don’t want to stay, I can have someone send you back.”

“It’s not necessary, Master, I can go alone.”

“Alone? And get drenched again?”

Lena stared intently into Mines’s eyes, as if searching for something.

Mines averted her gaze, backing away until her back pressed against the cold headboard, a soft moan escaping her lips.

Unexpected.

Given Mines’s personality, this wasn’t the kind of sound she would normally make. “I really want to know your profession, what are you hiding?”

“I don’t understand… Master.” Mines blocked Lena’s advance, her slender fingers trembling. “Is my profession really that important to you, Master? I promise I won’t harm your interests, please don’t…”

“Since you won’t tell me, I’ll have to use my own methods.”

Lena must have seemed like a predatory landlord forcing a girl into prostitution, at least that’s how she felt.

Oh ho ho, poor little dove, if you don’t speak up, you’ll be at the mercy of this creepy older woman~

Mm, I can’t wait to see you cry tears of regret while calling me Master~

Click—

The scene froze, as if time had stopped.

Lena slowly moved the gun barrel away from her forehead with one finger, her expression calm and serious…

Can’t we talk things out?!

Don’t you know guns hurt?!

Even at Lena’s current rank, facing a magic gun at such close range would result in serious injury.

So, a strategic retreat was necessary. Lena acknowledged Mines’s quick draw.

“Master… please don’t force me…”

Mines shook her head; she didn’t want to shoot Lena.

Once she fired, there would be no turning back. Pulling out the gun was more of a self-defense mechanism than a threat.

She hadn’t even released the safety…

“What did I force you to do?”

Lena swatted the Desert Eagle-like magic gun away, her voice turning cold. “I hate it when people point guns at me.”

Yes, any kind of gun.

“I’m sorry.”

Mines’s voice was soft and sorrowful. She was reflecting, but she didn’t know if Lena would forgive her.

She would definitely be fired…

Please no…

“My Master…” Mines clutched her chest dramatically, like a sickly maiden on the verge of a heart attack. If one looked closely, they would see that her eyebrows were always slightly downturned, her dignity placed so low that it was hard to dislike her.

“If you’re truly sorry, you should have apologized when you were about to kiss me.”

Lena released her, letting her lie on the pillows to catch her breath.

The fire of lust had died down, Lena’s desires vanishing the moment Mines pulled out that weapon.

“Idiot,” Lena scolded.

“Master.” Mines didn’t know how to face Lena, her long, black eyelashes casting shadows on her face, bracing herself for Lena’s reprimand.

“But since you returned my ring, I forgive you.” Lena flicked Mines’s forehead.

“Ah! Master…” Mines winced, her cheeks flushing, much to Lena’s amusement.

“I barely touched you, don’t act like I bullied you.” Lena rubbed her fingers, leaning against the headboard, now level with Mines. “Are you going back?”

“Yes, my siblings are waiting for me at home, I have to take care of them…”

“Oh? Siblings?”

Chapter 56: Fatal

“I’m going out for a bit.”

On a rainy night, Mines whispered.

Although no one answered, she still spoke, her gaze fixed on the old wooden door rattling in the wind.

Rain lashed against the house, seeping through the cracks in the door. The floor was damp, the air thick with the humid heat of evaporating rainwater.

This summer storm had arrived unexpectedly.

One moment, cicadas and frogs chirped, the next, it was as if a dark knight riding through a storm had blessed them with a downpour.

Mines hadn’t even had time to exchange her winnings from the deathmatch for a spacious cabin from the hat-wearing merchants before the sudden storm forced her into their cramped, cheap shack.

She huddled with her twelve younger siblings.

In the pitch-black darkness, familiar breathing sounds rose and fell.

Listening to her siblings’ murmurs in their sleep, Mines comforted herself, promising to find a better shelter tomorrow, so they wouldn’t have to suffer with her anymore…

“Master must be waiting.”

Mines hugged her legs, as if to encourage herself. Yes, she would rush out and return Master’s ring.

“It’s beautiful, but it doesn’t belong to me.”

With this thought in mind, the frail girl, like a small dove, stood up, quietly opened the door a crack, and slipped out into the rainy night.

Pitter-patter—

Her boots splashed through the water, her footsteps fading into the distance.

The receding night scene flashed before her eyes like a revolving lantern. The closed doors and windows of the shops and the dark, deep alleys seemed like gaping maws, waiting to devour their prey.

The rain blurred Mines’s vision.

The stinging sensation made her blink back tears, but it wasn’t sadness she felt, but a bitterness spreading through her mouth…

She could have kept the ring, sold it, and secured her family’s livelihood.

But such a decision would be foolish. The Falmouth family was one of the most powerful forces in the city. Keeping or selling the ring would be illegal, and Mines didn’t want to sell it anyway, she simply wanted to return it to its rightful owner…

“Will Master be happy to have it back?”

Master would probably arrest her as a thief, but she hadn’t stolen it, it was just because…

Well, who would believe the words of a stranger? She was already grateful that Master hadn’t rejected her…

“Forgive me, Master, but I can’t tell you my profession. You’ll be scared…”

Thinking of her secret, Mines bit her lip.

She had already decided, hadn’t she? To keep it hidden forever, to pretend it didn’t exist, to avoid the burden, to avoid facing it.

It would only bring disaster…

“Cough, cough…” Following the directions to the mansion she remembered, Mines started coughing violently halfway there, the heavy rain soaking her red feather dress, slowing her down.

Like a drenched dove, Mines found shelter, waiting for the rain to subside before continuing.

“Master’s dress… it’s dirty…”

The wet fabric clung to her skin, the warmth rapidly dissipating. Even her boots were filled with water. Mines felt cold, but she had to return the ring to Master.

Wringing out the feather decorations on her skirt, she removed her boots, pouring out the rainwater mixed with the citrus scent of her sweat, then tucked a strand of wet hair behind her ear, a faint blush appearing on her pale cheeks.

“Master…”

She whispered, her voice filled with unspoken emotions, a mixture of suppressed grief and sorrow, released in the rain. Mines murmured to the falling raindrops, “It’s so late, Master, you must be asleep. Can… can I disturb you…?”

…

Sleep was impossible, absolutely impossible. Lena tossed and turned, staring at the empty brocade box, sighing… she had only herself to blame.

Knock, knock, knock.

Someone was knocking at the door.

Knock, knock, knock…

The knocking continued, repeating at intervals.

Who the hell was disturbing her sleep at this hour?!

Lena’s mood soured, her footsteps echoing as she walked towards the door, her tall figure swaying in the dim light, her gray eyes burning with anger.

“I won’t forgive anyone who disturbs my sleep.”

If it was Ling Ling, she would scold her and send her away. If it was Angel… hmph, then she had no one to blame but herself!

The door opened.

A drenched little dove stood before her, her eyes downcast, still wearing the red feather dress Lena had given her, water dripping from her short black hair, the burn scars on her back starkly visible, her usual suit jacket missing.

“You came alone?”

Lena didn’t ask why Mines was at her door, simply pulling her inside and closing it.

Like a feather gently falling, a citrus fragrance filled the air.

Mines’s long eyelashes tickled Lena’s cheek, but it was her heart that truly pounded.

“A journey of a thousand miles shouldn’t end with just a kiss.”

Lena seemed to savor the lingering citrus fragrance of the kiss, a light, feathery sensation that made her heart flutter, like ants crawling beneath her skin.

Mines whispered, “Does Master also like feathers?”

“Why do you ask?”

“You sometimes resemble them… languid, slow, I can’t grasp you, hoping you’ll stay, but the next moment you’re gone, without a trace…”

Damn, why did she have to be so alluring?!