Category: The Devil Does Not Need to Be Defeated

Chapter 456: The Goddess Learns a Lesson

No matter what, since things had come to this, there was no other way.

Although this legendary Goddess of Fate had truly changed Shien’s impression of her, making him feel a little amused, Shien felt that if he didn’t step forward and say something, this marriage wouldn’t happen.

Not because she objected, but because she had come to his engagement banquet and caused a scene. If he remained silent, then what was the point of getting married?

He might as well change his name to Shien the Cowardly.

Therefore, Shien stepped forward.

“Lildas, was it?”

Shien directly addressed her by name.

This stunned Lildas and made Sara, Airi, Anima, Ancil, and Lucy’s expressions change.

Sara and Airi looked amused, while Anima, Ancil, and Lucy were slightly worried.

Anima was worried that Shien would get angry.

Lucy was worried that Shien would say something disrespectful in his anger.

Ancil was simply worried that Shien would offend the Divine Race’s greatest goddess.

Only Lilith, her gaze fixed on Shien, remained calm, as if she would support him no matter what he did.

Under such circumstances, Shien spoke.

“I want to ask you, Goddess,” Shien said nonchalantly, “what kind of existence is a blessed one to you?”

Lildas answered without hesitation.

“Of course, they are children worthy of love and care.” Lildas said without hesitation. “Especially Lucy. She’s so well-behaved, outstanding, and special. I can even consider her my real child.”

“Real child?” Shien was stunned.

He didn’t know what Lildas meant by that.

But Shien just wanted to say,

“Since you value Lucy so much, then I want to ask you, you’ve been opposing this marriage since you arrived. Have you asked for Lucy’s opinion?”

Shien’s words were quite blunt.

“This…”

Lildas was speechless.

Shien immediately pressed his advantage.

“You unilaterally rejected this marriage without even asking for Lucy’s opinion. This is not only inappropriate for a god, but even for a human.” Shien said sarcastically, “Or does the Goddess think that she’s high and mighty, controlling everyone’s fate, and whatever she says goes, a mere blessed mortal having no right to object?”

As soon as these words left Shien’s mouth, everyone realized that this wasn’t good.

Because this wasn’t just being disrespectful, but offensive.

“Shien!”

“Viscount Buztout!”

Lucy and Ancil couldn’t help but speak up.

Not only Ancil, but even Lucy didn’t dare to let Shien continue.

After all, no matter what, she was the highest-ranking member of the Divine Race, the strongest being in Omnipotence. If they offended her, it would be a big problem.

Moreover, Lucy didn’t want to see a major conflict between Shien and Lildas.

Because Lildas wasn’t just the goddess who had always protected her, but also someone who had always been good to her, giving her many special benefits and care.

Lucy’s special status in the Divine Race wasn’t just due to her own abilities, but also Lildas’s care.

Therefore, with her lover on one side, and her faith and benefactor on the other, Lucy naturally didn’t want their relationship to sour.

This was also why Lucy had been hesitant to speak, worried that her words would cause conflict.

But before Lucy and Ancil could say anything, Sara and Airi spoke.

“Don’t interrupt.”

Airi said in a tone that brooked no argument, silencing Lucy and Ancil.

“I think he’s right. Let him continue.”

Sara looked like she was enjoying the drama.

“Mmm-hmm.”

Lilith, whether she understood or not, nodded as long as it seemed beneficial to Shien.

Under such circumstances, Anima quickly said,

“Actually, Lildas respects the opinions of her blessed ones very much.” Anima explained, “Like Princess Lucy, when she refused to live in the Divine Realm, Lildas was very unwilling, but she still respected her blessed one’s wishes and didn’t interfere further. And her other blessed one doesn’t want beings of our level to interfere too much in her life, so Lildas has also been enduring the heartache, even though she knows that she’s being ostracized and targeted by the nobles in the capital, she hasn’t intervened.”

Anima’s explanation didn’t move Shien, but it did move the others present.

“Another blessed one?”

Lucy was surprised.

“The Goddess of Fate has another blessed one?”

Ancil was also shocked.

Sara and Airi were equally surprised.

“There’s another genius of that level in the human race?”

“And she’s in the capital?”

Sara and Airi were lost in thought.

Everyone present didn’t know that Lildas had another blessed one, and this blessed one was right here in the capital.

This surprised them greatly.

Only Shien knew that the person Anima was referring to was Diere.

However, this was also the first time Shien learned that the Goddess of Fate had been watching over Diere, even knowing about how she was ostracized and targeted in the capital.

It seemed that, just as Anima said, this goddess truly cared about her blessed ones.

But caring couldn’t be used as an excuse.

“Anyway, I think the Goddess should give me an explanation.” Shien crossed his arms, not feeling the need to be respectful or apprehensive, and said frankly, “I haven’t done anything harmful, nor have I offended the Divine Race. My marriage with Lucy is based on mutual affection and has been approved and permitted by the royal family and the Kingdom.”

In other words…

“There’s nothing unreasonable about my engagement, so there’s no reason for it to be unilaterally rejected and opposed.” Shien shrugged. “Of course, if the Goddess thinks that we humans shouldn’t complain or question the actions of gods, and that gods should naturally influence others’ lives and interfere with their affairs, then just pretend I didn’t say anything.”

Silence suddenly fell over the hall.

Everyone seemed speechless.

“Well said.”

Airi clapped her hands in approval.

“Yes, well-reasoned and well-said. I agree.”

Sara also smiled.

These two powerful figures of the Demon Race seemed to enjoy seeing the goddess of the Divine Race embarrassed and were even more delighted to see humans defying the Divine Race.

In fact, seeing a goddess of Lildas’s level being challenged by a human did make them, as Demon Lords, happy.

Humans had always held an attitude of worship, faith, fanaticism, even blind adoration towards the Divine Race, rarely defying them.

Especially in this world, where gods and humans were close, and gods truly existed, protecting humans since ancient times, making their faith in the Divine Race deeply rooted, without any doubt or suspicion.

Seeing the Divine Race being challenged by a human, how could the Demon Race, their old rivals, not be happy?

And Shien’s words were well-reasoned and irrefutable.

“Waaah…”

Lildas’s eyes teared up again, as if she had suffered a heavy blow, looking like she was about to cry, making Shien feel like he was bullying a child.

Anima also smiled wryly.

She naturally knew that Shien’s words were reasonable.

But as her longtime companion and sister, Anima knew that although Lildas was sometimes influenced by her strong sense of mission and responsibility, causing her to lose control, her intentions and character weren’t bad.

And although Lildas was the strongest and the first-born god, because she was always clumsy and reckless, both the gentle Anima and the dignified and polite Nadue treated her like a younger sister.

Therefore…

“How about this, Mr. Shien, I’ll apologize to you on behalf of Lildas. What do you think?”

Anima said seriously.

“Have… have the Goddess of Life apologize?”

Ancil was apprehensive.

This wasn’t a joking matter.

As one of the Three Goddesses, Anima was high-ranking and powerful, one of the pinnacles of this world, and a true god. Having such an existence apologize would only make people feel uneasy.

However, Anima had already made up her mind.

Lildas was very stubborn. Even if she realized her mistake and regretted it, she would only endure it with a wronged expression and wouldn’t compromise.

Since that was the case, Anima could only compromise on her behalf.

Anima didn’t think this was something to be ashamed of.

Firstly, Anima was a gentle and reasonable person. If she was truly wrong, she would sincerely apologize, even to a beggar.

Secondly, Anima was the Goddess of Life. In her eyes, all life was equal. Unless they were corrupted, she wouldn’t put on airs and consider herself superior.

Thirdly, Shien was also worthy of this treatment.

Even if others didn’t know, Anima knew.

She knew that this man before her wasn’t an ordinary person, but a true Hero.

The Divine Race always held respect for Heroes.

Bowing their heads to a Hero wasn’t a difficult thing for them, as goddesses.

However, just as Anima made up her mind, Lildas, with her aggrieved expression, spoke.

“Anima, don’t apologize.”

Lildas wiped away her tears, then said,

“I did it, so I’ll apologize myself.”

Chapter 455: …That’s It?

“Who…!?”

Just as a cold glint flashed in Wolram’s eyes, Diere suddenly shuddered, as if sensing something, and turned around, her eyes sharp.

However, as Diere reached for her weapon, she realized she wasn’t carrying any.

Dressed in a formal gown, Diere naturally couldn’t carry her weapons.

Diere’s heart sank, but she didn’t overreact. Instead, she quickly calmed down and stared at the figure before her.

Wolram was also a little stunned.

“I didn’t expect her intuition to be so sharp.”

No wonder that person wanted her, even if it was just her corpse.

As this thought flashed through his mind, Wolram didn’t lose his composure.

Because he had entered the royal palace “openly and honestly.” No one would question or suspect his presence.

Otherwise, the Royal Knights, led by Aldia, weren’t to be trifled with.

Therefore, Wolram slowly walked towards Diere.

Wolram was wearing the standard armor of the Royal Knights, with a sword at his waist.

“A Royal Knight?”

Diere looked at the unfamiliar “old man” before her, a hint of doubt flashing through her mind.

Diere hadn’t expected the person watching her in secret to be a Royal Knight.

But the “old man” smiled at Diere, a hearty smile, but for some reason, it made Diere very uncomfortable.

Because although he was smiling, there wasn’t a hint of mirth in his eyes.

That gaze was like looking at prey, or an enemy he disliked.

This alone gave Diere reason to believe that he was up to no good.

“Who are you?”

Diere asked in a deep voice.

The “old man” didn’t answer, but simply said nonchalantly,

“Come with me, Diere Elvenbein.”

He said these words right from the start.

Diere frowned, not speaking, or rather, not bothering to speak.

Since he didn’t intend to reveal anything and was clearly hostile, she could just subdue him directly. There was no need for further nonsense.

Wolram seemed to see the killing intent hidden beneath Diere’s silence. Although he felt quite displeased with Diere’s existence, he had to admit that she did possess qualities valued by the Raifurut family.

Not only her talent, but also her ruthlessness and indifference, which were rare for an assassin.

Perhaps this “half-blood” was a natural-born killer.

He just didn’t know why the Raifurut family wanted her, and what that person wanted her for.

Thinking of this, Wolram suddenly said,

“Don’t be so quick to refuse.” Wolram said calmly, looking extremely confident. “This might not be a bad thing for you.”

Diere still didn’t speak, just stared coldly at Wolram.

Her cold and merciless demeanor dispelled some of the prejudice in Wolram’s heart, replaced by appreciation.

As one of the most elite assassins trained by the Raifurut family, Wolram disdained Harvis’s amiable and gentle approach to everyone.

For him, there were only two kinds of people in this world: those he could kill, and those he couldn’t.

There was no need to show emotions or a friendly face to those he could kill.

And there was no need to interact too much with those he couldn’t kill, because they wouldn’t cross paths.

This was also the reason why Wolram was so arrogant in front of Shien.

He wouldn’t be polite to anyone, only judging their value, whether they were the first or second kind of person.

Therefore, Wolram didn’t need others to be gentle to him. That was worthless. On the contrary, this coldness and indifference allowed him to quickly judge what kind of person the other party was, which was “convenient.”

Coupled with his pride as an assassin, Wolram not only wasn’t disgusted by Diere’s coldness, but appreciated it.

Thanks to this, Wolram chuckled.

“Actually, I’ve been ‘watching’ you, Diere Elvenbein.”

Wolram said, as if talking to himself.

“Others think I’ve been obediently waiting for reinforcements, or even that I’ve already left the capital, but actually, I’ve been by your side all along. Did you notice?”

Saying so, Wolram gave some examples.

“A week ago, you and the women in your squad carried out a patrol mission in the commoner residential area of the eastern district. At that time, a child kept running past your patrol route. Did you notice?”

“Five days ago, you, the dog-person, and the elf in your squad purchased some items in several shops in the southwest district. At that time, a shopkeeper kept looking at you. Did you notice?”

“And three days ago, two days ago, even yesterday, there was a pair of eyes watching you.”

“Did you notice any of this?”

Wolram’s playful words made Diere’s expression increasingly grim.

“What’s your purpose?”

Diere’s voice finally turned cold, filled with killing intent.

That killing intent, as if she could attack at any moment, didn’t scare Wolram, but instead excited him, a pleased expression appearing on his face.

Therefore, Wolram didn’t hide his intentions either.

“My original purpose was to simply kill you and bring your corpse back.” Wolram licked his lips and said with a hoarse laugh. “But the power displayed by Shien Buztout really scared me. If I rashly attacked you, I probably wouldn’t be able to leave the capital alive.”

Although Wolram was arrogant and rebellious, he was an assassin who would do anything to complete his mission. He naturally wouldn’t continue doing meaningless things when he knew it was impossible.

Therefore, Wolram decided to abandon his original plan.

“Now, in the eyes of others, ‘I’ should have already left the capital.” Wolram sneered. “But I’ve been by your side all along.”

His purpose was self-evident.

Since force wouldn’t work, Wolram could only use soft tactics.

That’s right.

Wolram intended to make Diere willingly follow him.

That way, even Shien couldn’t do anything.

For this purpose…

“Let me tell you something good.”

Wolram smiled slyly and slowly began to speak.

As Wolram spoke, Diere’s initially cold expression froze, then her face was filled with shock, disbelief, and even speechlessness.

After Wolram finished, Diere lowered her head, clenched her fists, and remained silent.

“Tell me your choice, Diere Elvenbein.”

Wolram looked at Diere, the sly smile never leaving his face.

Diere was silent.

And she remained silent for a long time.

Until, after a long while…

“Don’t lie to me.” Diere said in her coldest voice yet. “If I find out you deceived me, I’ll cut you into a thousand pieces.”

Hearing this, Wolram nodded nonchalantly, thinking to himself,

“Mission accomplished.”

…

“Hmm?”

At the same time, Nadue seemed to sense something and was surprised.

“Did he say something to Diere Elvenbein?”

Nadue was aware of the situation on Diere’s side.

This Goddess of Nature knew about Wolram’s actions.

However, Nadue thought that Wolram was doing all this to discreetly approach Diere and attack her.

Who would have thought that he didn’t attack, but chose to talk to Diere instead?

This gave Nadue a bad premonition.

However, Nadue’s attention was soon drawn to the situation before her.

It couldn’t be helped. This situation wasn’t something she could easily ignore.

“I’ll be frank!”

In the side hall, the most luxurious reception room in the palace, Lildas slammed her hand on the table and said in a tone that brooked no argument,

“I don’t agree to this marriage! Absolutely not!”

The strongest goddess was causing a scene here, leaving Ancil speechless.

Sara rolled her eyes.

“I say, Goddess of Fate, making such a fuss is quite embarrassing, don’t you think?”

Sara said pointedly.

“Whether they get married or not, what does it have to do with you?”

Airi added sarcastically without mercy.

“Mmm-hmm!”

Lilith also nodded seriously.

Even Anima looked troubled.

“Alright, stop it, Lildas.” Anima patted Lildas’s shoulder and said gently, “I know you value Lucy and even consider her your own daughter, but as goddesses, we shouldn’t impose our own preferences on the lives of our blessed ones. That’s not right.”

Anima’s tone was like she was persuading a child.

“But…!”

Lildas’s eyes teared up, as if she felt wronged.

Shien and Lucy stood aside, not having said a word since they arrived.

“That’s what she said.” Shien said listlessly. “Aren’t you going to say something?”

“…It’s useless.” Lucy said with a resigned expression. “Once she gets like this, no matter what I say, Lady Lildas won’t listen.”

Clearly, this wasn’t the first time Lucy had encountered this situation.

It was because of this that after Lildas appeared, Lucy chose to remain silent and observe from the side.

It wasn’t that Lucy didn’t want to express her opinion, but she knew very well how stubborn this strongest goddess, who had bestowed her blessing upon her, was.

“Lady Lildas is the first goddess born, the first life, so she always feels that she should guide others’ growth and be responsible for the development of the world and the growth of life. Over countless years, she has developed a very strong sense of mission and responsibility, believing that she has a duty to shoulder everything.”

Lucy sighed.

“But this overly strong sense of mission and responsibility sometimes gets out of control, making her act recklessly, not listening to others, and causing a lot of trouble.”

This time, it was probably because she considered herself Lucy’s benefactor, like a mother figure to Lucy, that she lost control.

After all, if her daughter was getting married, and she was the last to know, it would be impossible for her not to worry about her daughter marrying a bad person, or being deceived and taken advantage of.

Therefore, Lildas exploded, rushing to the human world without thinking and trying to stop this engagement ceremony.

However…

“I just don’t agree! I don’t agree!”

Seeing Lildas throwing a tantrum, Shien only had one thing to say in his heart.

“The strongest goddess… huh?”

…That’s it?

Chapter 454: “You Wouldn’t Understand.”

After that, Shien and Lucy didn’t continue celebrating. After greeting a few people they had good relationships with, they hurriedly left.

It couldn’t be helped. The situation on the other side was concerning. Not only Lucy, but even Shien didn’t want those big shots to suddenly start fighting and ruin their engagement banquet.

Therefore, Shien and Lucy left the scene to Lia and excused themselves.

Under such circumstances, the dignitaries also lost interest in continuing the celebration and began to leave the palace one after another.

Of course, they wouldn’t forget what happened at today’s engagement banquet.

They also couldn’t forget that two of the Three Goddesses of the Divine Race and two of the Six Demon Lords were currently in the royal capital, in the palace.

And their purpose was simple: they were all here for Shien.

This made many people reassess Shien’s backing, reinforcing their thoughts of not offending him or becoming his enemy.

“Cooperating with Viscount Buztout was indeed the right choice.”

Harvis was glad about this.

“We’ll wait for the two goddesses outside the palace and see if they have any instructions.”

Yuler also waited outside the palace with the temple priests.

Vivian, Diere, Lumia, and Melika were sighing.

“I… I didn’t expect to see the Goddess of Life here…”

“It’s a pity we didn’t see the Goddess of Nature…”

Lumia was unusually excited, while Melika felt a bit regretful.

After seeing Anima, Lumia had been very excited.

After all, Lumia was a beastman, and the Goddess of Life was the highest deity of the beastmen race. Being able to see the Goddess of Life in person, it was impossible for her not to be excited.

Compared to Lumia, Melika only felt regret.

The Goddess of Fate and the Goddess of Life had appeared. Only one of the Three Goddesses hadn’t shown up, and she happened to be Nadue, the Goddess of Nature, the highest deity of the Elven Race. Melika naturally felt regretful.

Of course, Melika didn’t know that the Goddess of Nature was actually present, just not showing herself.

As for Vivian, she looked at Diere.

“Aren’t you going?” Vivian asked softly. “If it’s you, you should be qualified to go, right?”

Diere was surprised.

“…So, you already know?”

Diere was silent for a moment, then murmured.

Vivian’s words meant that she already knew that Diere, like Lucy, was blessed by Lildas.

But Diere had never told anyone about this, only Shien.

Therefore, Vivian’s words truly surprised Diere.

“Because you didn’t try to hide it, right?” Vivian smiled slightly. “And we’ve been together for quite a while now. You sometimes show unusual perceptiveness and intuition, so I made a guess.”

“And you guessed right?” Diere said calmly. “As expected, among everyone, you’re the one who understands the Divine Race the most.”

Vivian didn’t deny it.

She did understand the Divine Race.

After all, she had a deep connection with them.

It couldn’t be helped.

“Then are you sure you’re not going?” Vivian asked. “It’s good to go and see, right?”

“No need.” Diere shook her head. “With the Dragon Demon, the Moon Demon, and the strongest evil god by his side, whether I go or not doesn’t matter.”

Diere’s tone was a bit strange.

Vivian noticed it, but as if she knew why, she didn’t expose it.

“If it’s you, even if you just offer a few suggestions, Goddess Lildas will listen, right?”

Vivian said.

The higher the level of the goddess, the more they valued their blessed ones. Vivian naturally knew this.

But…

“I’m different from that princess. Besides receiving the blessing in my childhood, I haven’t interacted with the Goddess of Fate.” Diere said calmly, “Therefore, my words probably don’t carry as much weight as the princess’s. If my words are effective, then the princess’s words are even more so.”

Since that was the case, whether she went or not didn’t matter.

That’s what Diere wanted to express.

“Alright.” Vivian said helplessly. “Then are you going back with us?”

Diere fell silent.

After a while, Diere shook her head.

“No, I’ll go for a walk by myself before going back.”

Saying so, Diere left on her own.

Looking at Diere’s retreating figure, Vivian felt a pang of heartache for some reason.

“Actually, you don’t have to put so much pressure on yourself.” Vivian couldn’t help but say to Diere’s back. “I know you have special feelings for Shien, probably betting everything on him, and you’re also working hard to improve yourself, hoping to serve and be loyal to him in the future, like the ancestor of the Elvenbein family.”

Diere stopped.

Seeing this, Vivian continued,

“I think you definitely hold a special place in Shien’s heart.” Vivian looked at Diere’s back and said seriously, “Even if he already has the Dragon Demon, the strongest evil god, and even other powerful figures from the Divine Race and the Demon Race watching over him, it doesn’t mean he doesn’t need you.”

Vivian finally revealed what Diere was thinking.

Indeed.

Seeing powerful figures she couldn’t even imagine appearing one after another by Shien’s side, Diere finally became worried.

Worried that she was no longer needed by Shien.

This was the reason why Diere had been training so hard recently.

Seeing Shien’s strength growing, the people around him becoming stronger, and even Lucy about to marry him, Diere suddenly felt a sense of urgency.

An urgency to improve herself, prove herself, and make herself needed by Shien.

At least, her blessing was telling her—”If you continue to be so slow, there will be no place for you by his side.”

This not only gave Diere a sense of urgency, but also a sense of crisis.

Moreover, Shien seemed to be hiding something from her recently. Beneath Diere’s silent exterior, her heart was becoming increasingly anxious.

And today’s events undoubtedly put the greatest pressure on Diere.

Because Shien had even attracted the two current supreme rulers of the Divine Race and the Demon Race.

Lildas, the Goddess of Fate.

Sara, the Moon Demon.

One was the strongest of the Divine Race.

The other was the supreme ruler of the Demon Race.

With the Supreme God and the Demon King absent, these two were the true leaders of the Divine Race and the Demon Race.

Such two figures had actually appeared by Shien’s side. This not only shocked all the dignitaries, but also put unprecedented pressure on Diere.

Therefore…

“You wouldn’t understand, Vivian.”

Diere said these words unconsciously.

“For you, who treats everyone gently and considers protecting everyone your duty, you wouldn’t understand my selfish desires.”

Leaving these words behind, Diere left.

Only Vivian remained, looking at her retreating figure with a sad expression.

“I actually do understand, Diere, more than you think.”

Vivian murmured sadly.

“How could I not understand the feeling of being left behind by the people around me?”

If it weren’t for this, Vivian wouldn’t be like this now, wouldn’t consider protecting everyone her duty.

Simply because she didn’t want to see the people around her leave her again.

…

On the other side, after leaving the royal hall, Diere was about to leave the palace when she encountered someone she didn’t want to see.

Because this engagement banquet involving the entire human race was crucial, and they couldn’t afford any mishaps, Ancil ordered the Royal Knights to tighten security in the palace and not let any suspicious individuals go unnoticed.

Naturally, the Commander of the Royal Knights was also near the venue.

When Diere saw him, he was standing alone, guarding a path leading to the royal hall, looking at her with an impassive face.

Diere’s expression turned cold, and she walked forward without a word, not even greeting him, intending to just walk past.

But then, he spoke.

“You don’t even dare to face me now?”

Aldia’s indifferent voice made Diere stop abruptly. She turned around and glared at him coldly.

“That’s not the look a daughter should give her father.”

Aldia glanced at Diere, his expression as cold as hers, despite his words.

Diere sneered.

“Do you still expect me to call you ‘father’ at this point?”

Diere said.

Aldia didn’t seem to care.

“Such trivial matters don’t really matter.” Aldia said emotionlessly, “However, don’t forget, you’re a daughter of the Elvenbein family, with the blood of the Elvenbeins flowing through your veins.”

Diere clenched her fists.

“What are you trying to say?”

Diere asked in a low voice, suppressing her emotions.

“Nothing.” Aldia said calmly, “Just a reminder. Be careful of your surroundings recently, don’t let those who covet the blood within you succeed.”

After saying that, Aldia turned and left without hesitation.

Diere also turned and left, as if she couldn’t stay here any longer.

Father and daughter turned their backs on each other and parted ways.

This scene seemed to tell others that the distance between them was growing further and further apart.

And this scene was witnessed by someone.

“It seems I came at just the right time.”

A cold smile appeared on Wolram’s face.

Chapter 453: The VIPs Arrive One After Another

As that ethereal voice descended from the heavens and reached everyone’s ears, the suffocating pressure in the royal hall was instantly shaken.

Lildas’s expression shifted, and she turned her head, looking towards the source of the sound.

Everyone present did the same, turning their heads to look.

But the newcomer they saw made their expressions change once again.

“Long time no see, Goddess of Fate.”

With a chuckle, a bewitchingly seductive demon girl, as alluring as a ripe peach, walked in from outside.

Behind her, led by Jacinta, a group of demon envoys followed closely, like loyal subjects attending their king, respectful and attentive.

“Lady Sara!”

The demons present looked excited.

“The… the Moon Demon…!?”

Ancil, Yuler, Lia, Harvis, Vivian, and the others were also moved.

Even Shien, Lucy, and Airi were a little surprised.

“Sister Sara?”

Airi was stunned.

“Why is she here too?”

Shien couldn’t help but mutter.

“…”

Lucy didn’t know what to say.

Following Airi, Lilith, and Lildas, another Demon Lord-level existence made a grand entrance.

It was Sara, the leader of the Six Demon Lords, the ruler of the Demon Race.

“You’re here too?”

Lildas couldn’t hide her surprise.

Not only Lildas, but the others also hadn’t expected Sara, the supreme ruler of the Demon Race, to come here.

“This is getting out of hand…”

Nadue, hiding in the shadows, smiled wryly.

Only Sara herself, as if she had just done something ordinary, glanced at Shien and Airi, who was holding his hand, and smiled knowingly.

“This is the engagement banquet of the person my little sister has declared to protect. As the ruler of the Demon Race and the eldest of the Demon Lords, I should come and take a look.” Sara said meaningfully, “But you, Lildas, coming so suddenly, the Divine Realm must be in chaos because of your departure. Anima and Nadue must be panicking, right?”

Before they could see Lildas’s reaction, Nadue smiled wryly.

“I am indeed panicking.”

Now, Nadue didn’t know how to resolve this situation.

Lildas’s arrival was truly unexpected.

Even more unexpected was the arrival of Sara, the supreme ruler of the Demon Race.

Seeing Airi and Lilith firmly protecting Shien, and Sara blocking Lildas’s path, forming a triangle around her with a smile, Nadue knew that if things went wrong, she might have to reveal herself and intervene to prevent a conflict.

After all…

“You don’t seem very friendly towards that human, Goddess of Fate.” Sara said nonchalantly. “But he’s also someone my little sister has declared to protect. Since that’s the case, our Demon Race will stand by his side.”

No one misunderstood what she meant.

“Even you, facing me, Airi, and Lilith, the evil god, at the same time, would have a headache, right?” Sara said, taking the initiative to restrain Lildas, “You don’t want to fight us here, do you?”

Lildas was silent.

She indeed didn’t want to fight three Demon Lord-level existences here.

Setting aside the question of whether she could win or not, if the four of them fought, they might erase the entire royal capital from the human world.

Even worse, if they couldn’t control their power, the entire Kingdom might disappear because of their battle.

Lildas naturally didn’t want to see that happen.

Moreover…

“This is different from a thousand years ago!”

Sara’s expression suddenly turned serious as she said calmly,

“It’s ‘night’ now.”

These words made Lildas’s heart clench.

That’s right, it was night.

And night was the Moon Demon’s domain.

Fighting the Moon Demon in her domain, even without Airi and Lilith’s help, she could probably hold her own against Lildas alone.

Therefore, being enemies with Sara at this time wasn’t a wise choice.

Even in the war a thousand years ago, the Divine Race and the human race launched their attacks before nightfall.

The purpose was to prevent the Moon Demon from unleashing her “true power.”

Nadue also thought of this and became anxious.

Fighting the current Moon Demon was truly unwise.

Especially with Airi and Lilith also present, even Lildas would inevitably suffer a loss.

“It can’t be helped.”

Nadue bit her lip and prepared to reveal herself.

But tonight was destined to be lively.

“Excuse me, everyone, for my sake, could we please put this matter aside for now?”

With these urgent yet helpless words, a figure, as if carrying the life aura of all living beings, appeared, radiating a life force.

The people present, already uneasy because of the confrontation between Lildas and Sara, were first disheartened, then shocked, upon seeing the new arrival.

“L-Lady Anima!”

Yuler’s voice trembled with excitement again, revealing the newcomer’s identity.

It was Anima, the Goddess of Life.

“Oh my, Anima, you’re here too.”

Sara smiled again, as if she had been waiting for a long time.

“Goddess Anima!”

Lucy sighed and bowed to Anima.

“Here we go again…”

Shien didn’t know how to describe the current situation anymore.

Two of the Three Goddesses.

Two of the Six Demon Lords.

Plus Lilith, the strongest evil god…

At an engagement banquet, several of the most powerful beings of the Divine Race and the Demon Race had appeared.

This scene made Shien bewildered, made everyone tremble, and made Airi and the others tense up, becoming serious.

“Anima.”

Lildas also looked at Anima, her expression a mixture of relief and regret.

“You were too impulsive, Lildas.”

Anima first reprimanded Lildas, then looked around the hall.

The next moment, Anima’s gentle, motherly voice echoed,

“It seems everyone has been quite startled. I sincerely apologize.”

“But please believe me, both the Divine Race and the Demon Race want to offer their most sincere blessings to today’s engaged couple.”

“Please don’t be affected by us and enjoy celebrating with today’s bride and groom.”

Anima’s gentle voice soothed the anxiety and tension in everyone’s hearts.

The continuous appearance of the highest-level goddesses and Demon Lords had put immense pressure on them.

Anima noticed this.

“Lildas, let’s leave this place first.” Anima said softly to Lildas, then turned to Sara and Airi, requesting, “Would you two also come with us to the side hall and continue our conversation?”

Undoubtedly, Anima wanted to defuse the current situation and have those who were causing pressure on everyone leave first.

“I have no objections.”

Sara shrugged, seeming indifferent.

“Hmph.”

Airi snorted, but didn’t object.

“Father.”

Lucy gestured to Ancil beside her.

Ancil immediately reacted, standing up and unconsciously wiping the sweat from his forehead.

“Please move to the side hall.”

Ancil finally remembered his role as the host.

Anima and Sara both nodded and looked at Lildas and Airi respectively.

Lildas seemed a bit reluctant.

“I’ll go over for a bit.”

Airi said to Shien indifferently.

“Go ahead.”

Shien rolled his eyes, not wanting to comment on the current situation anymore, just wanting to get this over with.

Anima seemed to sense Shien’s displeasure and said apologetically, “I’m sorry for interrupting your engagement banquet. I’ll send a congratulatory gift on behalf of the Divine Race later. I hope you don’t mind.”

“Alright.” Shien nodded, his expression softening slightly. “I’ll be there later as well.”

He also wanted to know what this Goddess of Fate was planning.

“Good.”

Anima naturally had no objections.

However, they didn’t know what kind of impact the scene of the Goddess of Life speaking to Shien so humbly had on the others present.

Everyone looked at Shien, at this incredible man.

The Dragon Demon cherished him.

The Moon Demon favored him because of her sister.

The evil god obeyed his every word.

Even the Goddess of Life treated him with courtesy and respect.

Before, they thought Shien’s influence was already significant.

Unexpectedly, it was far greater than they had imagined.

At this moment, whether they were envoys of the Demon Race, members of the temple, or dignitaries from various countries, they all reassessed Shien in their hearts.

Even Vivian, Diere, Lumia, and Melika fell silent, exchanging glances and smiling wryly.

Ancil and Lia were the same, finally realizing that the power behind Shien far exceeded their expectations.

Under such circumstances, Anima, with the reluctant Lildas, and Sara, with the seemingly uninterested Airi, went to the side hall under Ancil’s respectful invitation.

“Phew…”

Leisha, who had been hiding, finally exhaled and quickly left with Lasha.

She didn’t want to be discovered by Lildas.

Otherwise, it would be a big problem.

Shien and Lucy then came together again.

They looked at each other, and after a while, both sighed softly.

Chapter 452: “What If You Add Me to the Mix?”

The heavy pressure that had filled the royal hall vanished in an instant.

Everyone looked at Lildas, who was tearfully clutching her face, their emotions incredibly complex.

But they didn’t dare to speak or ask, only quickly lowering their heads and continuing to feign piety.

Only Lucy, after a wry smile, hurried forward and helped Lildas up.

“Lady Lildas, why are you here?”

Lucy asked, seemingly helpless.

Lildas immediately turned her tearful face to Lucy, looking angry.

“Can’t I come?” Lildas said, both indignant and aggrieved. “If I didn’t come, you might already be married by the time I find out.”

“Then you should have just stayed in the Divine Realm.” Lucy couldn’t help but whisper. “That way, you wouldn’t have embarrassed yourself.”

“You…” Lildas was furious.

However, seeing the strange expressions of the people prostrating themselves on the ground, Lildas seemed to become aware of her image and quickly straightened her face, looking at Shien, whose lips were twitching.

“Are you Shien Buztout? The human who stole my blessed one?”

Lildas’s expression was unfriendly.

Even more so than Shien’s earlier.

But now, the displeasure in Shien’s heart had vanished without a trace, replaced by helplessness.

Divine might like a prison?

Cold and merciless?

What was that? Had it been eaten?

Could this goddess… be a joke?

Shien sighed.

“I said, I am Shien.” Shien said listlessly. “But what do you mean by ‘stole your blessed one’?”

Lildas seemed even angrier.

“Isn’t that the case?” Lildas said, “You actually got engaged to my Lucy without telling me. If it weren’t for a lower-ranking god reporting that a human who received a revelation from Nadue and had a close relationship with the Dragon Demon had appeared in the human world, I wouldn’t have known about this at all.”

It seemed that the things Shien had done had already reached this goddess’s ears through the Divine Race’s investigation.

Shien really wanted to say,

“Seriously?” Shien narrowed his eyes. “Since when do humans who receive a god’s blessing have to report their marriage to the god who blessed them?”

“This…” Lildas was speechless.

Because there was indeed no such thing.

Although gods blessed and protected humans, they didn’t interfere in their lives.

Even if a human committed heinous crimes and became a vicious criminal, the gods would only be disappointed and regretful, removing the blessing from that person, and nothing more.

Of course, if it was a serious incident that would affect the very foundation of the human race, the Divine Race, or even the Demon Race, then the gods would intervene.

However, generally speaking, gods shouldn’t interfere in the lives of those in the lower realm, let alone their marriages.

Or rather, most lower-ranking gods didn’t even bother with the lower realm beings, as they only bestowed blessings upon humans as part of their duties, like a job.

Only those who reached the level of Superior Gods, and whose blessing recipients were few and far between, all elites of the human race, would the gods pay attention to and guide.

As for the Three Goddesses, their blessing recipients might not even appear once in a thousand years, but once they did, it meant that they possessed astonishing potential and would become pillars of the human race in the future.

Under such circumstances, the Three Goddesses naturally valued those worthy of their blessings.

However, valuing them was one thing, guiding their growth and leading them on the right path was understandable, but interfering in their marriages was a bit too much.

Lildas suddenly realized that she was a bit unreasonable.

Just then…

“You’re still as clumsy as ever, Lildas.”

With these words, Airi, holding Lilith’s hand, stepped forward.

“Dragon Demon?”

Lildas was stunned.

She wasn’t stunned because of Airi’s presence here.

She also knew that Airi was currently with Shien, so she wasn’t surprised by her appearance.

But seeing Lilith with her, Lildas was truly surprised.

“You’re Lilith?” Lildas gasped, covering her mouth. “You broke free from the seal?”

Clearly, Lildas didn’t know about the Cosmos incident yet.

After all, Anima hadn’t told her, only mentioning it to Nadue, so Lildas was still in the dark.

Of course, seeing Lildas’s surprised expression upon seeing Lilith, everyone else was also a bit surprised.

They naturally knew Lilith, the mysterious expert who appeared beside Shien and protected him along with Airi when he annihilated the Lucica family.

But they didn’t know Lilith’s identity or background.

Now, seeing Lildas’s surprised look, everyone’s hearts skipped a beat.

Could it be that this little girl’s background was so extraordinary that even the Goddess of Fate was surprised?

Everyone thought this.

Yuler, at the side, couldn’t help but speak.

When Lilith first appeared, the Pope of the temple had already noticed her.

Setting aside others, as the Pope, Yuler had a certain intuition about Lilith’s existence.

He felt that Lilith was likely a goddess, not an ordinary little girl.

Therefore, Yuler asked,

“Do you know this Miss Lilith, Lady Lildas?”

This question was met with a clear answer.

“How could I not know her?” Lildas said without thinking, as if she had no schemes at all, “Lilith, the evilest of evil gods, the demon girl who governs evil and chaos, the apex of evil gods and demon gods, born at the same time as Artemis, the Goddess of Justice, who turned the earth into hell ten thousand years ago, sealed by us because she lost control, whose power surpasses the Goddess of Life and the Goddess of Nature, on par with Artemis, the strongest evil god comparable to a Demon Lord.”

Lildas’s words made everyone present gasp.

“The strongest evil god comparable to a Demon Lord?”

Yuler, Ancil, Harvis, Rockto, Lia, and the others looked at Lilith differently.

They hadn’t expected this mysterious expert to have such a formidable background.

No wonder…

No wonder even the Dragon Demon treated her as an equal, always taking her along.

With this Demon Lord’s arrogance, how could she treat someone like this if they weren’t of equal power?

So, not only did Shien have the support of a Demon Lord, but also an evil god whose power was comparable to a Demon Lord?

This fact shocked many.

Even Vivian, Diere, Lumia, and Melika were the same.

They, like everyone else, didn’t know Lilith’s true identity.

During their time at the Buztout mansion, Lilith was either clinging to Shien, or being taken care of by Airi or Lasha. The four girls were very busy and rarely had the chance to interact with Lilith.

Who would have thought that Lilith’s background was so terrifying?

“No wonder…”

Vivian murmured, as if she understood something.

Lilith, on the other hand, facing Lildas’s gaze and everyone’s shock, didn’t change her expression at all, but instead came to Shien’s side, took his hand, and silently expressed her support for him.

“You…”

Lildas’s surprised gaze returned to Shien.

She didn’t know why Lilith had broken free from the seal.

She also didn’t know why Lilith was here and seemed to have successfully returned, no longer just a separated half wandering outside.

But she knew that the relationship between Lilith and Shien was definitely not ordinary.

Even Airi curled her lip, came to Shien’s other side, and took his other hand.

“I didn’t expect you to appear in a place like this, Lildas.” Airi said calmly, “No matter your purpose for being here, let me make this clear first. This human is someone Lilith and I favor. Even you can’t touch him so easily.”

Airi’s words made all the nobles present exchange glances, their hearts filled with envy and jealousy.

Yes.

They were truly envious and jealous.

Seeing Shien holding hands with Airi and Lilith, one on each side, they knew that his relationship with these two existences who could decide the fate of the world was much better than they had imagined.

With the support of a Demon Lord and an evil god, what couldn’t Shien achieve in the human world?

Only Lildas…

“…Although I don’t know what’s going on, are you sure you want to be my enemy?”

Lildas’s tone changed.

No, not just her tone, but even her aura changed.

Her clumsy and awkward demeanor vanished, replaced by the cold and merciless, divine might like a prison, terrifyingly powerful aura from before.

That feeling not only suffocated everyone, but also made Airi and Lilith’s expressions turn serious.

Shien also tensed up.

This goddess was still the strongest being in the three realms. He definitely couldn’t underestimate her because of her previous clumsiness.

It was true.

“Even if the two of you join forces against me, I wouldn’t say you’re not qualified, but I dare say you can’t stop me.” Lildas’s expression also changed, becoming calm and decisive. “Step aside. Fighting me here would be unwise.”

Only this goddess had the right to say these words.

If the Three Goddesses and the Six Demon Lords were existences that transcended the limits of life, fundamentally different from other beings in the Divine, human, and Demon Realms, then among them, Lildas was undoubtedly at the apex.

Anima, the Goddess of Life, and Nadue, the Goddess of Nature, were on one level.

The Six Demon Lords were on a higher level, surpassing these two goddesses.

And Lildas was on another level, surpassing even the Demon Lords.

She alone occupied the position of the strongest. In the war a thousand years ago, she single-handedly fought against the Moon Demon and the Charm Demon, and even had the upper hand, showing her power.

But…

“What if you add me to the mix?”

Chapter 451: That’s a Plant

“—”

In that instant, the entire royal hall fell silent.

Everyone, as if guided by a divine force, naturally and unconsciously turned their gazes towards the figure who had appeared.

Then, countless people’s eyes widened.

“Th-that is…!?”

Ancil, who had been chatting with someone a moment ago, lost his voice.

“What…!?”

Vivian, Lumia, and Melika also gasped, as if they couldn’t believe what they were seeing. Diere’s eyes trembled behind her mask.

Even Harvis, Rockto, Lia, and Charl were stunned.

“Pfft!”

Leisha, who had been questioning Lasha, trying to find out what had happened between her and Shien, couldn’t help but be startled and spat out the food in her mouth.

Everyone present was either stunned or speechless, the hall falling silent.

Even Lucy turned her gaze towards the figure, her eyes widening in shock.

“What’s wrong?”

Only Shien was confused.

He naturally noticed the arrival of the figure.

The figure seemed to possess an extraordinary presence and influence, drawing Shien’s gaze naturally, and he noticed her.

Frankly speaking, when he first noticed her, Shien himself was stunned.

Her hair was as white as snow, her skin like frost, her figure graceful, and her aura extraordinary. All the praises in the world could be used to describe her.

That beauty wasn’t as captivating as Lucy’s, nor as holy and ethereal as Nien’s, but it was transcendent and flawless.

Of course, just her extraordinary beauty wasn’t enough to shock Shien.

What truly shocked Shien was the unfathomable power he sensed from her.

It wasn’t about the vastness of her magic power, nor the terribleness of her aura, but a kind of power that made it seem like she controlled everything around her just by being there.

That power was something Shien had never felt before.

Because, for the first time, Shien had a thought.

That was—unrivaled.

She was simply unrivaled.

It wasn’t just that he couldn’t defeat her, but that he shouldn’t be her enemy, shouldn’t oppose her.

The emergence of this feeling was what truly shocked Shien.

It was precisely because of this that Shien felt confused.

He had encountered the “apex” for the first time.

And then…

“Y-you… you are…”

A voice finally rang out in the royal hall.

It was Yuler.

This Pope of the temple, whose status surpassed even a king, this old man with almost unrivaled authority in the human world, was now agitated.

So agitated that his hands and feet were trembling.

No, not just the Pope.

Including the Pope, all the priests were agitated and trembling, making even the dignitaries from various human countries nervous.

Many of them hadn’t seen this figure before.

More than ninety-nine percent of them shouldn’t have known her.

But when she appeared here, people still easily recognized her.

That was only natural.

Because she was the greatest goddess who guided humanity’s growth, illuminated their path, and always protected, cared for, and supported them.

Her name was usually recorded at the very beginning of the Divine Race’s history.

Her statues were enshrined in temples all over the world, worshipped and revered.

There was no one in this world who didn’t know her.

“Thud!”

Yuler was the first to kneel, lowering his head devoutly.

“Boom!”

Almost simultaneously, everyone present reacted and knelt down in unison.

Including Ancil.

Including Harvis.

Including Lia.

Also including Vivian, Diere, Lumia, and Melika.

Even Lucy knelt down.

In the entire royal hall, only Shien, Airi, and Lilith remained standing, while everyone else prostrated themselves on the ground.

And then…

“We greet Goddess Lildas!”

Yuler shouted loudly.

“””””We greet Goddess Lildas!”””””

Everyone present chanted in unison.

“Lildas…?”

Shien’s heart trembled again.

He couldn’t possibly not know this name.

She was the head of the Three Goddesses, the true apex of the current Divine Race, besides the Supreme God Omniis.

She was the strongest being in the three realms, surpassing even Demon Lords, second only to Omniis and the Demon King Claudis.

It was said that in this world called Omnipotence, besides Omniis, the true god, and Claudis, the true demon, this goddess was the first to be born.

If Omniis and Claudis were born before the world, then after the world was created by the omnipotent Goddess Omniis, this goddess was created immediately afterward, literally the “first lifeform in the world.”

The most powerful goddess of the Divine Race, who governed, controlled, and guided the fate of all beings – Lildas.

This legendary Goddess of Fate had finally appeared here.

And then… she set her sights on Shien.

“Are you Shien Buztout?”

A cold voice echoed from this strongest goddess.

That voice was as cold as ice, as sharp as a blade.

Undoubtedly, it was the voice of a “god.”

Although not arrogant or condescending, it seemed to embody the phrase “divine might like a prison,” condescending and majestic.

Shien felt a suffocating pressure bearing down on him.

But then, an immense power erupted from within him, completely dispelling this pressure.

“Huh?”

Lildas seemed to sense something and let out a soft sound of surprise.

Shien felt his body lighten, then his expression changed, and he looked at Lildas with displeasure.

Although he didn’t know why this goddess had suddenly appeared here, he knew that she was here for him.

And the power erupting from within him dispelled the sense of powerlessness he had felt before, making him glare at her, his eyes turning cold.

Shien stepped forward.

“I am Shien.” Shien’s voice was strong and powerful, as if unwilling to show weakness. “What business do you have with me?”

His rebellious expression and tone stunned everyone present who had recovered.

“Shien!”

Lucy couldn’t help but reach out and tug at Shien’s sleeve.

But Shien ignored her, just glaring at Lildas, his expression extremely displeased.

In the eyes of those present, this behavior was probably considered extremely disrespectful, right?

“That boy…”

Only Airi’s eyes lit up, her previously serious expression turning amused.

“Oh no!”

Nadue, hiding in the shadows, cried out inwardly, seemingly guessing what was about to happen.

Under everyone’s gaze, Lildas fell silent, then walked towards Shien.

“—”

A suffocating pressure filled the hall.

Everyone present held their breath, wanting to say something, but unable to speak, making many of them anxious.

Especially Vivian, Diere, Lumia, Melika, Lia, and Leisha. Watching Lildas approach Shien step by step, their hearts were filled with anxiety.

Facing the strongest god in the world, the most terrifying existence in the current era, Shien was actually so disrespectful. They could already imagine the tragic consequences.

Only Lucy and Nadue spoke almost simultaneously.

“Wait…!”

They both wanted to say something urgently.

Unfortunately, it was too late.

Just as Shien also held his breath, his heart filled with defiance, preparing to fight back the moment she attacked him…

Something unexpected happened.

“Thud…”

With a soft sound, Lildas, walking towards Shien with an imposing aura, stumbled.

Yes.

She stumbled.

Because her left foot tripped over her right foot.

“Ah!”

A cry of surprise rang out.

“Thump!”

A muffled sound followed closely behind.

“Ouch…!”

A cry of pain followed.

And then… nothing.

Shien was stunned.

Yuler was stunned.

Ancil was stunned.

Everyone present, including Vivian, was stunned.

“I knew it…”

Only Lucy, Nadue, and Airi muttered these words in unison, covering their faces.

Silence filled the royal hall for the third time.

Everyone looked at Lildas, who had fallen to the ground, her face pressed against the floor, her expression twitching.

“Waaah… it hurts…”

Lildas sat up, clutching her reddened nose, tears welling up in her eyes.

“…”

Silence.

Quiet.

Speechless.

Stunned.

Such emotions filled everyone’s hearts.

Especially seeing Lildas trying to stand up, her hand slipping, and falling to the ground with another cry of surprise, everyone present, as if unable to bear witnessing this scene, turned their heads away for a moment, as if in pain.

An indescribable silence continued to spread.

“It hurts…”

Lildas sat up again, clutching her face, tears in her eyes, and stood up with a wronged expression, starting to sob.

“…”

This time, indescribable emotions filled everyone’s hearts.

Shien was the same.

His face was completely frozen.

In his heart, there was only one word he wanted to express.

“Grass.”

That’s a plant. (A common internet slang expression in Chinese, used to express disbelief or surprise.)

Chapter 450: Some People Just Can’t Handle It

After that, Shien went to a corner of the hall and greeted the people there.

The people there were Shien’s acquaintances.

“You are…!?”

Lucy followed Shien, and when she saw the people clearly, her eyes widened slightly.

Shien, however, acted nonchalant and said casually,

“Sneaking in here as expected. I knew you wouldn’t stay home obediently.”

The people Shien was talking to were two girls who looked exactly alike, one dressed like a noble lady, the other like an attendant, like twin sisters.

They were Leisha and Lasha.

“Congratulations on your engagement, Mr. Shien, Princess Lucy.”

Lasha bowed respectfully.

“Oh dear, we’ve been discovered.”

Leisha, holding a plate of food, sat at a table, nibbling on it with a smile.

However, none of the people present noticed Leisha and Lasha, as if they were unaware of this small corner, not even approaching it.

The reason was simple.

“Did you cast the [Cognitive Interference] spell?”

Lucy realized.

Yes.

Leisha had cast the [Cognitive Interference] spell, affecting others’ perception of their presence, making them completely unaware of their existence, which was why they didn’t approach this corner.

Leisha had also cast this spell back in Larmigion.

It was under these circumstances that Leisha met, noticed, and got to know Shien.

Shien, with his [Magic Resistance] skill, naturally had resistance to magic that affected his cognition.

Therefore, Shien had long since discovered Leisha and Lasha’s presence, unlike the others in the hall.

No, Airi and Lilith must have also noticed Leisha and Lasha.

However, except for Airi and Lilith, everyone else was completely affected by Leisha’s [Cognitive Interference] spell, even a legendary-level expert like Rockto, showing how powerful this young lady’s magic was.

Shien knew this was because Leisha possessed a magic-related Unique Skill.

Her Unique Skill amplified the power and effects of her magic and even allowed her to use magic she hadn’t learned, even without chanting spells, showing how powerful this Unique Skill was.

However…

“You actually dare to come to a place like this.” Shien said with annoyance. “Aren’t you afraid of being discovered and instantly doomed?”

After all, this girl was a former member of the Old Demon Faction, someone who, along with the [Assassination Branch], infiltrated the royal capital and even the palace ten years ago, stealing something extremely important.

The Kingdom had been searching for her for ten years, but because of their apprehension about the “item” in her possession, they hadn’t openly acted against her. But if she was discovered to have infiltrated the palace again, she would definitely be hunted down relentlessly.

This was evident from Lucy’s silence and her intense gaze fixed on Leisha.

Clearly, Lucy had recognized Leisha and felt hostile towards her.

Leisha naturally noticed this.

“I say, Princess, can you stop glaring at me like that?” Leisha said helplessly. “I just thought it was boring, so I brought my maid in to get some food. I’m not planning to do anything.”

“…Really?” Lucy said calmly, “But your presence here is already a great offense to our royal family.”

The royal palace being infiltrated again by the thief from ten years ago was a matter of dignity, so it was no wonder Lucy felt hostile.

“It seems the princess doesn’t like me very much.” Leisha raised an eyebrow, then suddenly smiled. “Does Your Highness want to capture me here?”

“I do.” Lucy said honestly, “Unfortunately, I also know that with my current abilities, I can’t capture you.”

The fact that Leisha possessed Spatial Magic wasn’t a secret to someone of Lucy’s level.

Therefore, Lucy knew that although she might be stronger than Leisha, if Leisha wanted to escape, no one in the world could catch her, except for those at the level of the Three Goddesses and the Six Demon Lords.

No, perhaps even beings at the level of the Three Goddesses and the Six Demon Lords would have difficulty capturing her.

After all, Leisha’s Spatial Magic was very advanced, her magic skill level already high, coupled with the amplification of her Unique Skill. Probably, no one in the three realms had greater mastery of Spatial Magic than her.

Therefore, Lucy didn’t choose to act.

Especially on a day like today, Lucy didn’t want to cause any trouble.

However…

“You seem to have a good relationship with her.”

Lucy glanced at Shien, her hand, which was holding his arm, unconsciously moving to his waist.

“We’re just acquaintances.”

Feeling Lucy’s movement, Shien chuckled dryly and tensed the muscles in his waist.

His resistance skills had no effect on this princess, so Shien didn’t think Lucy couldn’t break through his defenses.

For the sake of his waist, he had to choose his side carefully at this time.

However, as if to retaliate against Lucy’s hostility, Leisha’s eyes darted around, and she suddenly grabbed Shien’s other arm.

“Our relationship is more than just acquaintances.” Leisha looked at Shien with seemingly affectionate eyes and said, “You’ve been to my house, and I’m now living under the same roof as you. We have a very good relationship, right?”

At this moment, Shien clearly felt the hand on his waist tighten, pinching a chunk of flesh.

Shien’s expression changed drastically, and he quickly pushed Leisha away before that hand could exert more force.

“That’s a different price… I mean, when did our relationship become so good?”

Shien almost steered the conversation in the wrong direction.

Leisha, however, didn’t mind at all and hugged Lasha beside her.

“I’m just telling the truth.” Leisha said to Lasha, “Right, Lasha?”

Before Shien could retort, Lasha spoke.

“I think this is a good thing.” Lasha said calmly. “With Milady sharing the burden, it will be much easier on the princess. Otherwise, with Mr. Shien’s size, some people just can’t handle it.”

These words silenced everyone.

“Pfft!”

Shien spat out blood.

“Huh?”

The smile on Leisha’s face froze.

“…”

Lucy was silent.

The car that had almost veered off course suddenly sped up.

But Shien knew that this road led to a dead end.

In other words… he was about to crash!

Shien quickly said,

“We have to go greet the other guests. Excuse us. Please enjoy yourselves.”

Saying so, Shien grabbed Lucy’s hand and ran.

“Wait… wait! You bastard, what did you do to Lasha…!?”

Leisha’s enraged voice came from behind, but it couldn’t stop Shien.

Lasha seemed to be holding Leisha’s hand, calmly persuading her.

Could this maid be doing this on purpose?

Shien couldn’t help but think this.

Until…

“Explain this to me when we get back…”

A demonic voice echoed in Shien’s ear.

“Yes…”

Shien’s lips twitched, on the verge of tears.

Unbeknownst to him, Lucy looked at Shien, her heart filled with complex emotions.

Although Lucy didn’t strongly object to Shien taking concubines in the future, it depended on who they were.

Leisha and Lasha’s identities were truly special.

They were so special that the human race, the Divine Race, and even the Demon Race didn’t know how to deal with them.

In the end, the three races could only tacitly ignore them, letting them act freely for the time being.

Otherwise, the item Leisha stole was so important, why didn’t Airi, Anima, or even the Kingdom dare to act against her?

It was because Leisha herself was special, and after taking that item, she became even more special.

People didn’t even want to mention that item in front of Leisha.

Lucy was the same. Although she said she wanted to capture Leisha, it was just to warn her not to go too far and treat the royal palace like a place she could come and go as she pleased.

Now, Lucy was worried that Shien being so close to Leisha and Lasha might cause problems.

Perhaps Shien had already entered the sights of the Divine Race and the Demon Race because of this.

(It seems I need to remind him sometime.)

Lucy thought.

She didn’t want to see her beloved foolishly touch some taboo and become the common enemy of the three races.

Of course…

(Considering Shien’s identity, those two being by his side is actually the most reassuring thing.)

Lucy thought this as well.

Lucy didn’t know that Nadue, who was nearby, had been silently watching this scene and sighed.

“Letting the Hero interact with those two sisters, I wonder if that’s a good thing.”

Nadue felt somewhat worried.

But the next moment, Nadue’s expression suddenly changed, and she looked up.

“This is…”

Nadue seemed to sense something and was stunned.

At the same time, in the banquet hall, Airi, holding Lilith’s hand and looking bored, also suddenly looked up.

“This feeling…”

Airi’s expression tensed, a serious look appearing in her eyes for the first time.

“…”

Even Lilith seemed to sense something and turned her head sharply, looking towards the entrance.

There, a figure had appeared at some point, silently stepping into the royal hall.

Her presence instantly attracted everyone’s attention.

Chapter 449: This Seems a Bit Difficult…

The engagement banquet, amidst the joy of the host family and the heartbreak of most of the guests, proceeded to the celebratory stage.

After receiving everyone’s blessings (?), Shien and Lucy had to walk around the venue and greet all the attendees.

Frankly speaking, this was the part Shien disliked the most.

Putting on a fake smile and greeting these so-called dignitaries whom he didn’t even know?

This was undoubtedly at the top of Shien’s list of troublesome things.

The only amusement might be greeting some of the noble sons and seeing the even more forced smiles on their faces, their hands trembling as they shook his, wanting to crush his hand, yet not daring to exert any force.

This sight amused Shien quite a bit, and he even found some enjoyment in it, continuously taking Lucy around, greeting those noble sons with a smile, humbly saying “Please continue to support us in the future,” and watching them suffer in silence, a sense of pride welling up within him.

In short,

“I just like seeing you wanting to kill me, yet not daring to make a move.”

That was it.

Even Lucy had a smile on her face, holding Shien’s arm and following him closely as they greeted the dignitaries.

Her charming and gentle demeanor, rarely seen before, was truly captivating and heartbreaking.

Because the more they looked, the more those noble sons realized that this number one beauty of the human world, this princess, was already taken and didn’t belong to them.

If those noble sons who still refused to accept this reality and weren’t allowed by their families to attend this engagement banquet saw this, they would definitely explode and attack Shien.

Of course, for now, the noble sons present were filled with regret for not being absent like those others.

“Why did I come here to watch my goddess be taken away by another man?”

“Do I have nothing better to do?”

“Am I here to be tortured?”

The noble sons felt like they were vomiting blood.

Shien successfully gained a wave of deep-seated hatred.

However, it wasn’t that Shien didn’t greet anyone sincerely.

For example, when he reached Harvis, Shien didn’t provoke him.

“Are you satisfied, Prince Harvis?”

Shien, with Lucy, greeted the prince with a smile.

“Greetings, Prince Harvis.”

Lucy also greeted Harvis, a gentle smile still on her face, but nothing more.

But Harvis still couldn’t help but glance at Lucy, the breathtakingly beautiful Kingdom’s treasure, and sigh inwardly.

“Congratulations again, Viscount Buztout, Princess Lucy.” Harvis replied, then looked at Shien and whispered, “Wolram has already left the capital and didn’t attend your engagement banquet. I’ve sent people to follow him. We should be able to act soon.”

Only Shien, Rockto, who was standing silently beside him, and Lucy could hear these words.

“Act?”

Lucy was slightly taken aback, but didn’t say anything.

“Really?” Shien also remained calm. “Do you need my help?”

“No, it’s not to the point where I need your help yet.” Harvis shook his head, looked directly at Shien, and said, “Consider this my token of sincerity. After dealing with the Raifurut family, please cooperate with me.”

“Alright.” Shien readily agreed. “Then I’ll wait for your good news, Your Highness.”

Saying so, Shien left with Lucy.

Lucy then spoke.

“Are you going to deal with Wolram Raifurut?” Lucy asked softly. “Is it because of Diere?”

This princess was truly perceptive.

“Sort of.” Shien didn’t hide anything and replied casually as he continued walking, “Don’t worry. Leave this matter to the prince. He’ll handle it.”

“I’m not really worried.” Lucy looked at Shien’s profile. “I’m just wondering why he would help you deal with a noble family of his own country.”

Clearly, Lucy had started to guess Harvis’s intentions.

After all, Harvis’s performance in their previous duel had caught the attention of the Mitra royal family.

Lucy was also a bit concerned about that prince, seemingly worried that Shien would be tricked by him.

“Don’t worry.” Shien squeezed Lucy’s hand. “I know what I’m doing.”

Although Lucy was still a bit concerned, she didn’t say anything more and nodded, not asking any further questions.

Afterward, Shien and Lucy also greeted Yuler seriously.

“Thank you for coming, Your Holiness.”

Shien bowed to the Pope, whom he didn’t dislike.

“Thank you for coming.”

Lucy said respectfully.

“It’s my honor to attend your engagement banquet.” Yuler said kindly, as if looking at his own grandchildren. “You two are the most outstanding talents of our human race. I look forward to your future. The gods must also be watching over you. I hope you will continue to work hard and become pillars of the human race.”

Saying so, Yuler made a gesture of blessing towards Shien and Lucy.

Shien and Lucy accepted the blessing, smiling, but both had the same thought in their hearts.

(Pillars of the human race? My relationship with the Demon Race is much better than my relationship with the human race now. I hope you won’t worry about me destroying the human race in the future.)

This was Shien’s thought.

(I don’t want to work hard anymore!)

This was Lucy’s thought.

As the two were thinking this, Yuler seemed to remember something and suddenly said to Shien,

“Speaking of which, Viscount Buztout, you still have an opportunity to enter the inner sanctum of our temple, and you haven’t used it yet, right?”

Yuler’s words made Shien slightly stunned, then he also remembered.

That was the reward given to him by the temple after he subjugated the Old Demon Faction’s [Assassination Branch] and came to the capital for an audience.

Because of the [Assassination Branch]’s actions in the capital, the Divine Race, the human race, and the Demon Race were all paying attention to this matter and prepared to reward Shien for subjugating them.

On behalf of the Kingdom, Ancil allowed Shien to study in the underground magic library of the royal palace for a month.

On behalf of the Demon Race, Jacinta gave Shien a top-grade magic staff, which Shien used to set up the Buztout mansion’s defense system.

And then there was the Divine Race, represented by the temple, who gave Shien an opportunity to enter the inner sanctum.

Unfortunately, Shien forgot about it.

The reason was simple.

“Is there anything special in the temple’s inner sanctum?”

Shien didn’t know about it, so he didn’t pay much attention to it, to the point where he even forgot.

Only now, when Yuler mentioned it, did Shien remember.

Lucy, beside him, was surprised.

“You haven’t entered the inner sanctum yet?”

Lucy had an expression of “you missed out on hundreds of millions.”

“What’s in the inner sanctum?”

Shien was curious.

Lucy also knew that Shien had only been in this world for a short time and wasn’t very familiar with many secrets.

Therefore, Lucy explained to Shien,

“It’s a sanctuary within the main temple, only existing in the temple here in the capital of the Kingdom of Mitra. It’s said to be a treasure created by the Supreme God Omniis to enhance the strength of the human race and fight against the Demon Race.”

Lucy’s explanation surprised Shien.

“A treasure that can enhance the strength of the human race?”

Shien looked at Yuler.

Yuler smiled slightly.

“It’s a treasure bestowed upon our human race by the gods, managed and protected by the temple since ancient times.” Yuler also explained, “Its function is simple: it allows those who enter to directly connect with the [World’s Logic] and sense its existence, making close contact with it.”

Lucy continued Yuler’s explanation.

“After making contact with the [Logic], we will gain insights we didn’t have before, directly perceiving everything about ourselves, even the entire world.” Lucy said seriously, “After such an experience, those who enter the inner sanctum will grow, some increasing their levels, some learning new skills, some even awakening Unique Skills. It’s a very precious opportunity, only once in a lifetime.”

Hearing this, Shien’s heart was moved.

So, he actually had such a valuable opportunity?

He had truly missed out before.

Especially when Yuler added,

“Many powerful figures in the human race gained extraordinary insights after entering the inner sanctum, breaking through their previous limits and reaching a whole new level. For example, the Commander of the Royal Knights, the head of the Elvenbein family, His Majesty’s knight, the strongest existence in the Kingdom, Master Aldia, it was after entering the inner sanctum that he broke through from level eighty-nine to level ninety, becoming a legendary expert.”

Therefore, the opportunity to enter the inner sanctum was extremely rare and precious for the entire human race, and no one would disregard it.

If Shien had known about this, he would have gone long ago.

But perhaps this was also a blessing in disguise.

“There’s only one chance to enter the inner sanctum. Even if there’s a second chance, you won’t be able to connect with the [Logic] again. Therefore, many people only go there when they feel their strength can no longer improve, having reached a bottleneck and their limit, seeking transcendence and breakthroughs.”

Lucy said.

“Since you haven’t gone yet, you can consider saving this opportunity for later, when your strength growth slows down, and try it then.”

In fact, Lucy was like this.

She naturally had the opportunity to enter the inner sanctum, but she hadn’t gone yet.

Shien nodded and kept this in mind.

However… was it possible for his strength growth to slow down?

This seemed a bit difficult…

Chapter 448: The Luckiest Thing in My Life

If Shien and Lucy were the protagonists of this engagement banquet, then the host was undoubtedly Ancil.

Ancil nodded at Shien with a seemingly satisfied expression, then looked around the hall.

“First of all, please allow me, on behalf of my daughter Lucy and the Kingdom of Mitra, to welcome you all and thank you for accepting the Kingdom’s invitation and attending this engagement banquet.”

Ancil’s voice brought those captivated by Lucy’s beauty back to reality.

“Today is the engagement day of my daughter, the Kingdom of Mitra’s Second Princess, Roselucia Mitra.”

“She is my treasure, and also the Kingdom’s treasure. She has been exceptionally talented since childhood, unmatched in the human world, not only recognized by the ancestral Holy Sword but also blessed by the Goddess of Fate, favored by the Divine Race.”

“I believe there is no one in this world more outstanding than my daughter, and no one with such achievements.”

“For this, I sincerely thank the gods for giving me such an outstanding daughter, and I have been proud of her for seventeen years.”

“I believe I will continue to be proud of her until the day I die.”

“I also believe that everyone in the Kingdom, like me, is proud of my daughter, adores her, and sincerely praises her.”

“Now, my outstanding daughter has finally found a husband worthy of her.”

Saying so, Ancil held Lucy’s hand with one hand and Shien’s with the other, facing everyone present.

“His origins aren’t noble, but with his own abilities, in just a few months, he transformed from a mere adventurer into a hero admired by the Kingdom and all races.”

“He tamed the legendary black dragon, subjugated the Old Demon Faction, and repeatedly foiled the conspiracies of fallen nobles, standing out among the many heroes of the human race, becoming the most outstanding one.”

“If there’s anyone in this world worthy of our Kingdom’s treasure, I believe it’s him.”

“Therefore, today, I officially entrust my daughter to him, betrothing my Kingdom’s treasure, the royal family’s precious jewel, to this equally outstanding man.”

Ancil placed Lucy’s hand in Shien’s.

Shien and Lucy held each other’s hands, almost instinctively tightening their grips.

They seemed to see no one else but each other, their eyes locked.

Ancil smiled, his heart filled with mixed emotions.

He remembered that he had once decided that if Shien and his daughter showed any signs of a relationship, he wouldn’t agree unless Shien completely became a part of the Kingdom.

Who would have thought that things would change so much? Now, it wasn’t a matter of whether he agreed or not.

His precious daughter would inevitably be taken away.

This made Ancil feel melancholic these past few days, but he had come to terms with it.

Ancil then announced loudly,

“From this day forward, Shien Buztout is officially engaged to my daughter, Roselucia Mitra.”

“They will be engaged until they walk down the aisle and become husband and wife.”

“Please offer your most sincere blessings to this engaged couple.”

Everyone present looked at Shien and Lucy, holding hands and gazing into each other’s eyes, as if no one else existed, their hearts filled with reluctance.

Especially the noble sons, seeing Lucy, more beautiful than ever, their resolve to give up began to waver.

Not only them, but even the current dignitaries hesitated.

Should they really give up?

Such a beautiful princess, the most outstanding descendant of the Hero in the entire human race, a truly blessed woman, could they really give her up?

If their family could form a marriage alliance with her, what a blessing it would be.

The dignitaries from various countries, who had originally decided to give up, all wavered.

Even Harvis smiled wryly among the crowd.

“Even I’m starting to regret giving up so easily. Roselucia Mitra is truly a formidable person.”

With such a person as his rival, no wonder his sister was so stressed and neurotic.

Almost everyone present had similar thoughts to Harvis, feeling that they had given up too early.

But it was too late to regret now.

“Clap—clap—clap—clap—”

A round of applause suddenly rang out.

Everyone turned their heads and looked, then they were stunned.

Because the one clapping wasn’t anyone else, but Airi.

Yes.

Airi was leading the applause.

“The Kingdom’s treasure, truly lives up to her reputation, worthy of my applause.”

Airi glanced at the surprised Shien and clapped.

Beside her, Lilith immediately imitated her, clapping seriously with a small face.

Vivian and Diere exchanged glances, then one smiled, the other’s expression softening, and they also started clapping.

Even Lumia and Melika, one quickly following suit, the other smiling after a moment of silence, as if relieved, joined the applause.

Seeing this, the people present began to clap along.

“A truly well-matched couple, may the gods bless you.”

Pope Yuler smiled and clapped, leading the temple priests to applaud as well.

The members of the Demon Race also did the same, following Airi’s lead without hesitation.

Harvis smiled wryly and clapped with Rockto.

The others couldn’t hesitate anymore and could only clap reluctantly, the applause growing louder and louder, filling the hall.

However, as the noble sons clapped, their hearts bled.

Looking at Lucy’s beautiful, goddess-like figure, and seeing that only Shien was in her eyes, a smile she had never shown before gracing her face, the noble sons were driven mad with jealousy, wanting to kick Shien away and take his place beside Lucy.

Ancil, however, smiled happily.

Then, he looked at Shien.

“I, Ancil Mitra, in the name of the thirteenth king of the Kingdom of Mitra, bestow upon you the honorary title of Earl.”

Ancil carried out the final task.

“From this day forward, you are no longer just a viscount, but an Earl of the Kingdom, a high-ranking noble, truly entering the upper echelon of the nobility.”

“I hope you will treat Lucy well, strive for progress, and reach even greater heights.”

“Earl Buztout.”

After saying that, Ancil let go of their hands and stepped back, leaving the stage to Shien and Lucy.

Shien and Lucy finally smiled at each other.

Especially Lucy, whose eyes were filled with both happiness and relief.

Because she knew that she had finally bid farewell to the past, no longer needing to live such a boring and meaningless life.

From now on, she didn’t need to live to meet others’ expectations, nor did she need to work so hard to hide herself.

Although today was just their engagement, not their official wedding, Lucy, with the [Blessing of the Goddess of Fate], had a premonition that her life, from this moment on, had truly changed.

Thinking of this, Lucy couldn’t help but tighten her grip on Shien’s hand.

Shien, for once, didn’t act like a fool, as if only this beautiful princess was in his eyes, his face filled with a gentle smile.

Shien seemed to see the scene of the first time he met Lucy in the square in front of the palace.

Lucy at that time was so beautiful, so dignified, that Shien was stunned and held his breath.

However, what truly made Shien understand Lucy was that decisive scene.

Even now, Shien could still vaguely hear her words from that time.

“Why are there so many troublesome things happening? Can’t I just rest?”

“My daily schedule is already so full. Not only do I have to make public appearances every day, but I also have to deal with those nobles proposing marriage. I don’t even have time to have fun. I finally get to stay in the capital for a while, why do these world-altering events have to happen? How much work does God want me to do?”

“I don’t want to work! I don’t want to work! I want to go out and play!”

“I want to eat the desserts from Lilith’s shop! I want to eat the food from Isis’s restaurant! I don’t want to keep eating the cold food from the palace!”

“Waaah… that idiot Vivian… why did she bring me such troublesome matters? What do these people want from me?”

“Aaaaaah… so troublesome… so troublesome…”

Recalling her voice, her words, and Lucy lying on the bed, rolling around and complaining about her situation, Shien couldn’t help but smile.

Shien leaned close to Lucy’s ear.

“Do you still think meeting me was a troublesome thing?”

For some reason, Shien asked this question.

Lucy seemed to know where this question came from and, as if also recalling that time, looked at Shien with exasperation.

However…

“Meeting you is the luckiest thing in my life.”

Lucy, following her heart, answered with a bright smile, each word spoken with sincerity.

That smile once again stunned everyone present.

Shien also couldn’t help but be momentarily dazed, then he smiled gently.

Glancing at the beautiful Lucy, then at the noble sons around them, their eyes filled with envy and jealousy, Shien’s smile turned mischievous.

Then, Shien tightened his grip on Lucy’s hand.

“Ah!”

Lucy exclaimed and fell into Shien’s arms.

Shien embraced the princess, then without hesitation, lowered his head and captured her lips.

“Whoa!”

Everyone present gasped.

“Crack!”

The hearts of all the noble sons shattered like glass.

“Wh-what!?”

Vivian, Diere, Lumia, and Melika were stunned.

“That guy…”

Airi’s clapping stopped, her face twitching.

Even the smile on Ancil’s face froze.

In front of everyone, Shien kissed the Kingdom’s treasure, the most beautiful woman in the human world, announcing to the world that this princess now belonged to him.

Lucy finally reacted, both angry and flustered.

But then, Lucy’s body softened. She wrapped her arms around Shien’s neck, closed her eyes, and entrusted herself entirely to him, letting him do as he pleased.

This was also a declaration.

A declaration that she had already become this man’s possession.

She was devoted to him, infatuated with him, not for a political marriage, nor for any other considerations, but simply because she loved this domineering man who was kissing her.

“Aaaaaah!”

Finally, someone in the hall couldn’t take it anymore, screaming and fainting.

Others felt dizzy, their hearts empty, their souls lost.

“Really…”

Even Nadue, hidden in the shadows, couldn’t help but be amused.

As for Lia, who had been silently watching from the side, now looking at the kissing couple, her heart was filled with both relief and complex emotions.

“Princess Lia…”

Charl called out to Lia, her eyes filled with envy and longing as she looked at Shien and Lucy.

“I’m fine.” Lia shook her head and whispered, “Lucy has finally found her happiness, found someone who truly loves her, and whom she truly loves.”

Lia no longer felt jealous.

But she still felt envious.

“Princess Lia has already broken off her engagement with the Lucica family. She will also find her own happiness.”

Charl, as the person closest to Lia and who understood her the most, naturally knew Lia’s past worries and her current feelings.

“Hopefully.”

Lia didn’t have her usual bitter expression, but smiled.

She knew that she still couldn’t compare to her sister.

Even though her engagement with the Lucica family had been dissolved, as a royal princess and the first in line to the throne, she would likely still end up in a political marriage with someone she didn’t love.

Without Lucy’s special status, or Shien’s special circumstances, there were very few things she could decide for herself.

But at least, now, she no longer felt as hopeless as before, right?

Therefore, while grateful to Shien for giving her this hope, Lia couldn’t help but say,

“I have a wish, Charl.”

Lia suddenly said these words.

“A wish?”

Charl was stunned, then seemed to understand.

Lia said, both happily and playfully,

“I want to fall in love.”

She didn’t ask for a passionate or unforgettable love, just to meet someone, love him with all her heart, and have him love her back just as sincerely.

Even if they couldn’t be together in the end, it wouldn’t matter.

This was her wish—Liadella’s wish.

Chapter 447: The Undisputed Center of Attention

“Roar—!”

The dragon’s roar echoed over the royal capital, causing the celebrating citizens to look up at the sky.

Yulin roared triumphantly, flying towards the palace under everyone’s awestruck and complicated gazes.

People pointed and whispered.

Because they knew that the protagonist of this nationwide engagement banquet was currently on the dragon’s back.

“Riding a dragon to his engagement?”

“It has to be said, that’s quite impressive.”

“Seeing this, I can only say, he’s indeed worthy of Princess Lucy.”

“Yeah…”

It seemed that only at this moment did people truly realize and accept that the person about to ascend to the throne envied by all was a hero beyond their reach.

Compared to him, they were nothing. What right did they have to object?

The people of the capital thought this with mixed feelings.

Shien didn’t know that his actions had actually had such a positive effect.

But even if he knew, he probably wouldn’t care, right?

He was starting to get used to people’s reactions.

As Yulin flew, Shien and his group finally arrived at the palace.

The black dragon, bathed in everyone’s gaze, soared across the night sky, across the vast lake, and finally reached the heart island, descending towards the palace below.

This engagement banquet, due to the large number of guests, many of whom were dignitaries, and its high prestige, was held directly in the royal hall.

The royal hall, usually used for audiences, was now decorated with various ornaments and luxurious tables and chairs. Steaming dishes and drinks were served on white tables by palace maids, the nobles mingling amongst themselves.

Of course, the topic of their conversations was the protagonist of this engagement banquet.

“After today, the Kingdom’s treasure will officially be taken.”

“To think we competed for so long, yet we lost to an adventurer-turned-viscount who only became a noble a few months ago.”

“It can’t be helped. He has the Divine Race and the Demon Race backing him.”

“If I had the support of the Divine Race and the Demon Race, I would have also risen to prominence long ago.”

“We’re all losers today.”

The noble sons, and even the royalty from various countries, gathered together, their conversations filled with sourness and emotion.

At this moment, whether they were dignitaries with competing and opposing national interests, or nobles from different countries who were political rivals, they shared a rare sense of camaraderie and shared misfortune, drinking heavily together, seemingly ready to drown their sorrows.

The noble sons allowed to come here were basically those who had already accepted reality, abandoned their fantasies, and given up on opposing Shien.

Otherwise, their families wouldn’t allow them to attend, lest they cause trouble and create a disaster.

Therefore, today, these noble sons were here for one last reminiscence, gathering together and sharing their feelings.

The other dignitaries from various countries also gathered and chatted.

The topics of their conversations were much more sophisticated than those of the noble sons.

“After the Kingdom’s treasure and Viscount Buztout are officially engaged, the Kingdom of Mitra will also have forged a deeper relationship with the Divine Race and the Demon Race, right?”

“In the past, the Kingdom already received a lot of help from the Divine Race because of the Hero Mitra and Princess Lucy. Now, with a marriage alliance with someone closely related to a Demon Lord, they might surpass the Ragna Empire and become the strongest nation in the human world.”

“Could this be the reason why the Mitra royal family chose Buztout?”

“Who knows? Although Ancil is known for doting on his daughter, he’s also a pragmatist. Perhaps he really is calculating the benefits.”

“It seems the Kingdom of Mitra will become increasingly powerful in the future.”

“Don’t be so sure. It’s the Ragna Empire that should be worried.”

“Indeed.”

These dignitaries turned their gazes to Harvis, who was chatting with others.

Harvis, seemingly unaware of everyone’s gaze, continued to chat, his gentle smile making many noble ladies in the hall blush and their eyes shine.

However, at this banquet, many important figures were present, and Harvis wasn’t the most dazzling one.

Even Yuler, the Pope of the temple, had come to attend with a group of priests and was now being greeted respectfully by many. He appeared kind and approachable, without any airs. However, Yuler and his group were undoubtedly the center of the most prestigious and respected circle today.

As the representative of the Divine Race in the human world, the temple held a special position among humans, and the Pope was on equal footing with the king of a nation, even higher in status than many kings of smaller countries.

Building a relationship with the temple personnel would definitely be a great thing for the dignitaries of various countries active in the human world.

Therefore, after Yuler appeared, he immediately became the most sought-after figure. Since his arrival, people hadn’t stopped greeting him. Even Harvis, with Rockto, went up to greet him respectfully, showing the temple’s special status.

And Yuler, who had never attended any banquet personally in the past, actually came to Shien and Lucy’s engagement banquet in person. This showed that in his eyes, Shien and Lucy also held a special position.

After all, both Shien and Lucy had a significant connection with the Divine Race.

With this connection, Yuler didn’t dare to put on airs, and he had to attend this engagement banquet.

He basically represented the Divine Race here, showing that they were also paying attention to this engagement banquet, to Shien and Lucy, even offering them their blessings.

Because of this, many people from the Demon Race Embassy also came, as if competing with the Divine Race, becoming another dazzling circle in the hall.

For this engagement banquet, representatives from the Divine Race, the human world, and the Demon Race were all present.

No wonder others thought that this would be the most sensational and high-profile engagement banquet in history.

Under such circumstances, Shien and his group finally made their appearance.

“Tap—”

When this clear footstep echoed in the royal hall, the entire venue fell silent.

Shien slowly walked in.

He wore luxurious ceremonial attire.

He held Airi and Lilith’s hands, one on each side.

Behind him, like blooming flowers, Vivian, Diere, Lumia, and Melika lined up, following him like his companions and attendants.

This entourage instantly overshadowed all the nobles and dignitaries present.

Especially the appearance of Airi, dressed in a bright red dress and holding Shien’s hand, made many people’s expressions change.

Soon…

“Greetings, Viscount Buztout! Greetings, Dragon Demon Princess!”

Lia, with Charl, came to Shien and his group and bowed respectfully.

Everyone suddenly snapped back to reality.

“””””Greetings, Viscount Buztout! Greetings, Dragon Demon Princess!”””””

At this moment, whether they were royalty from various countries or high-ranking nobles, they all bowed to Shien and Airi.

Yuler and the priests from the temple also did the same, abandoning their usual aloofness and lowering their noble heads.

And the members of the Demon Race, needless to say, upon seeing Airi, all knelt down in panic.

Clearly, no one had expected Airi’s presence.

Airi didn’t even glance at these people, just held Shien’s hand indifferently.

Although these people were all of high status and noble birth, in Airi’s eyes, they were no different from ordinary people.

Therefore, Airi wouldn’t give them a second look, nor would she respond to their greetings.

Only Shien, glancing around, looking at these dignitaries from various countries, all of whom were undoubtedly powerful and influential in this world, and who were now bowing their heads to him, felt a bit emotional.

Others were amazed that Shien, just an adventurer a few months ago, had now risen to such prominence, finding it unbelievable.

But what about Shien himself?

Shien had always considered himself an ordinary and mediocre person, not a protagonist, not the center of the world.

Even in his past life, although Shien had forgotten who he was then, judging from his current mentality and values, he was definitely not someone rich or noble.

Such a person like him, actually standing among the dignitaries of various races in just a few months, making everyone bow to him, it was impossible for him not to feel emotional.

(No wonder otakus dream of reincarnating into another world or transmigrating into anime.)

It was because of this feeling of becoming someone destined for greatness that people were so passionate about it, right?

Unfortunately…

(I’m still a mediocre person, an ordinary salted fish.)

Shien smiled, the emotions in his heart dissipating.

His adaptability had always been strong.

Therefore, in just a second, he had completely recovered.

“Greetings, Princess Lia.”

On such a formal occasion, Shien didn’t act too casually and also bowed to Lia.

This was his engagement banquet, after all. No matter how much Shien liked to act out, he wouldn’t do so at his own engagement banquet.

However, Shien wasn’t overly polite either.

“Where’s Lucy?”

Shien went straight to the point.

Lia smiled slightly, turned around, and directed everyone’s attention to the throne.

There, from a side path, two figures slowly approached, appearing before everyone.

It was Ancil and Lucy.

Ancil held his daughter’s hand, like a father about to give his daughter away, his face kind and gentle.

But at this moment, everyone’s gaze was focused on the figure beside Ancil.

Shien was the same.

The reason was simple: Lucy today was simply too beautiful.

She wore a white veil, a pearl necklace, and jade earrings. Although she wore no makeup, her skin was as white as snow, smooth and alluring.

She wore a pure white dress, like a wedding gown, with off-shoulder sleeves and an open back, exuding a breathtaking beauty.

Today, she had neither the Holy Sword nor her usual imposing aura by her side, only a captivating beauty.

Especially the faint smile on her face, and her crimson eyes, like gemstones, curved into crescents, adding a gentle and charming touch she didn’t usually have.

This was the true princess.

This was the goddess in everyone’s hearts.

The most beautiful woman in the human world, the Kingdom’s treasure, under everyone’s gaze, appeared in her most beautiful form.

Everyone was stunned.

Everyone’s hearts skipped a beat.

At this moment, Lucy was undoubtedly the center of attention.

No one could compare.

“Truly blessed…”

Nadue, who had been following Shien, looked at Lucy like this and couldn’t help but sigh in admiration.

“I see. She truly deserves to be acknowledged…”

Even Airi seemed to look at Lucy with new eyes, murmuring.

Vivian, Diere, Lumia, and Melika also looked at Lucy, their hearts filled with amazement, admiration, and relief.

Even Lilith seemed to find Lucy charismatic, glancing at her a few times.

Ancil led Lucy like this, coming to Shien and Airi.

“Greetings, Dragon Demon Princess.”

Ancil bowed to Airi.

Ancil hadn’t expected Airi’s presence either.

But he was undoubtedly pleased.

Because this meant that the Demon Lord was paying attention to this engagement banquet, to their Mitra royal family. This was something to be happy about.

Airi glanced at Ancil.

“I’m just here to watch.” Airi gave Ancil some face and said indifferently, “Don’t mind me. Carry on with your own matters.”

“Yes.” Ancil naturally had no objections.

Ancil then turned his gaze to Shien, his eyes somewhat complicated, but also filled with relief and satisfaction.

Although he was startled by Shien’s displayed abilities, even feeling apprehensive, he had to admit that such a person was a good match for Lucy.

Therefore, Ancil had no regrets.