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Chapter 31: What a Coincidence

Kailun opened his mouth to speak, but no words came out.

He chuckled and shook his head, gently stroking Carol’s hair.

He had intended to manipulate her, but she had turned the tables on him. He had underestimated her.

No, it was more accurate to say they had manipulated each other.

He glanced at the system interface and saw that her favorability had reached 85.

He suddenly realized that 100 wasn’t that far off. Did this mean he had a chance to obtain all of Carol’s future power?

His excitement was fleeting. He knew that making someone love him completely was far more difficult than making them hate him completely.

The remaining favorability points would be a long and arduous journey.

…

The Xiaoyao Street bustled with activity in the early morning. Men with weary faces hurried to work, skinny figures emerged from brothels clutching their waists, and peddlers openly hawked illicit potions.

Merchants replenished their goods on oxcarts, beggars staked out their usual spots, and children in tattered clothes played amongst themselves, their nimble fingers discreetly exploring the pockets of unsuspecting passersby.

Life was cheap here, as was labor. The only things of value were children with magical talent and beautiful girls. Everything else was worthless.

In the Xiya Kingdom, the average lifespan of a commoner was less than fifty years, while Rank 1 mages lived for over eighty.

The vast disparity in wealth and lifespan created an insurmountable class divide.

Anything that granted power came with a hefty price tag, making it impossible for ordinary people to even step onto the path of advancement.

Even those who managed to obtain a stepping stone were often blocked by the rigid hierarchy. To gain strength, they had to submit to the whims of the royal family.

This was the reality of the world, a reality Kailun had only glimpsed after his downfall in his past life.

“Shopkeeper Ella, you’re open so early today?”

“Have you gotten any new dresses, Shopkeeper Ella? My old one ripped, and I need a replacement.”

“Are you sure you won’t accept my proposal, Shopkeeper Ella? I’ll give you three shops if you say yes.”

Ella, a mature and intelligent woman of twenty-five, greeted her customers and admirers with a charming smile as she opened her shop.

Her efficient management kept costs low, giving her a competitive edge. In just a year, she had transformed her small shop into the largest clothing store on the street.

Her customers appreciated her affordable, durable, and stylish clothes.

Of course, at least half of the men crowding her storefront were there to admire her beauty.

Some even spent lavishly to catch her attention, like the Royal City Enforcement Squad Captain, Loston, who was currently slacking off from work.

“This one, this one, and this one. Wrap them all up.” He pointed at a rack of clothes, addressing the salesgirl.

“Right away, sir. Please wait a moment.”

The salesgirl bowed respectfully. As she prepared to wrap the clothes, Loston interrupted.

He smirked. “Actually, I meant everything except those three. Wrap up the rest. Did you not hear me clearly?”

He jingled his coin purse, emphasizing his wealth.

He had just received his salary and was feeling generous.

He believed that if he could win Ella’s heart with a bit of money, it would be a worthwhile investment.

If not for her considerable strength and mysterious background, he would have resorted to other methods instead of pretending to be a gentleman and a wealthy patron.

Faced with the powerful Loston, the salesgirl bowed even lower. “I apologize, sir. I’ll wrap them up immediately. Please wait a moment.”

“Go on, don’t be afraid. This is just a few days’ worth of my salary. It’s nothing to me.”

Loston waved his hand dismissively, trying to impress Ella with his generosity.

However, when he turned to face her, he found her engaged in conversation with a young man. If he hadn’t known that the boy was her nephew, who worked part-time at the shop on weekends, he might have had him taught a lesson.

Sensing Loston’s cold gaze, Paul lowered his voice and said to Ella, “Auntie, is he still bothering you? I told you to reject him firmly. Why didn’t you listen?”

Ella sighed. “I want to, but what if he retaliates? What if he has my shop investigated? What if he uses you and Anna to threaten me? Don’t worry about it, Paul. I can handle this. Once I earn enough money, these people won’t be able to touch me.”

She was confident in her ability to deal with these minor annoyances.

“Alright, I’ll trust your judgment.” Paul glanced at his arm, where two magic circles were now inscribed beneath his clothes.

However, he was still far from reaching Loston’s level of strength. He couldn’t even meet his gaze without feeling intimidated.

“Oh, by the way, you mentioned that Anna disappeared after going to a classmate’s house. I did some investigating, and it seems she never went there. Someone said they saw her heading east after school the day before yesterday, but no one knows where she went. I suggest you inform the academy. If something happened to her, I’ll never forgive you.”

The mention of Anna reminded Ella of her disappearance. She fixed Paul with a serious look.

“I know, I’ll report it when I return to the academy this afternoon.”

Paul nodded. He could return the forbidden scroll then as well.

Thinking of his missing sister, he cursed Kailun inwardly. With all his resources, he couldn’t even find one person. What a useless waste of space!

Ella smiled reassuringly. “Remember, Paul, family is always the most important. Strength can be gained gradually. Alright, it’s almost time to start work. Go to the back and get started. We have a lot to do today.”

“Understood.”

He made his way through the crowd towards the back of the shop.

“Clatter!”

As Paul reached the back, a luxurious carriage pulled up in front of the shop.

Ella watched in surprise as a distinguished-looking butler opened the door, and a young man and woman, dressed in expensive clothes, stepped out hand in hand.

Her eyes widened as she recognized the beautiful girl with white hair. She gasped, her hand flying to her mouth.

“Carol?”

Character:

Ella

Chapter 30: She Called Me a Good Person

The next morning, Kailun rose from Carol’s bony chest, gazing at the sleeping girl. He reached out and ruffled her hair playfully.

Last night, Carol had simply served as a bed warmer and a cuddle buddy. He hadn’t done anything untoward to her.

Yet, despite this, her favorability had increased by five points, much to his delight.

He could trick a pure soul like Carol into bed a hundred times!

Of course, “trick” was just a figure of speech. No one could deceive Carol, not with her innate ability to see through people’s hearts.

“Wake up, sleepyhead. It’s the weekend, so no classes, but we have a lot to do today.”

After waiting a few minutes, he finally resorted to pinching her nose to wake her up.

“…Sorry, I’m getting up.”

Carol blinked sleepily, her eyes still heavy with slumber.

The bed was so soft and comfortable, like a cloud. She had drifted off to sleep instantly and didn’t want to leave its embrace.

However, she hadn’t forgotten her duties. She gracefully hopped off the bed, her translucent nightgown clinging to her slender frame, leaving small indentations on the soft mattress.

She retrieved a few fresh clothes from the wardrobe and returned to his side.

“Please raise your arms, Master.”

“Please spread your legs, Master.”

“Please…”

Kailun basked in her attentive service, almost losing himself in the moment.

This was the future final boss, the legendary World-Ending Witch.

Who would have thought that she would become his personal maid?

This sense of accomplishment and conquest was even more satisfying than his attribute gains.

After dressing him, Carol fetched a basin of water and helped him wash his face and brush his teeth. The entire process took about fifteen minutes.

“Do you have any other instructions, Master?” She asked earnestly, wiping a bead of sweat from her forehead.

Kailun pointed to the wardrobe. “Go change into something nice. I’m taking you out to do something you’ve been looking forward to.”

“Really?” Carol’s eyes lit up at the thought of the beautiful dresses hanging inside.

“Unless you prefer to wear that ridiculously short maid outfit or just your nightgown.” He eyed her suggestively.

“…I’ll go change right away.”

Flustered by his gaze, she quickly retrieved a light blue dress from the wardrobe.

It was the most modest-looking garment among the collection. She paired it with a pair of white sandals.

The light blue complemented her pale skin, her exposed arms and legs drawing attention. The white sandals revealed her ten delicate toes.

Under Kailun’s watchful gaze, they curled nervously against the soles, as if awaiting his judgment.

He watched her change, his eyes lingering on her every move. “Not bad. Quite cute. If you drank more milk and ate more papaya, I might even have more adjectives to describe you.”

He gestured towards his arm, leaving a space just wide enough for her to slip hers through.

It took her a moment to understand his intention. Blushing furiously, she scurried over and linked her arm with his.

“Let’s go. We’ll have breakfast first, and then we’ll take care of that matter you’ve been waiting for.”

“The matter I’ve been waiting for?”

“That’s right.”

…

After breakfast with Carol and Anna, Kailun led Carol out of the manor. Anna’s knowing gaze as they departed amused him.

If he didn’t have so much to do today, he would have stayed and teased her further.

He helped Carol into the carriage. Accompanying them were Roden, Philip, two coachmen, and two assistants.

The coachman who had bumped into Carol had been dismissed.

“To the Xiaoyao Street, near the slums.” He instructed the coachman, peering out the window.

Roden and Philip exchanged surprised glances.

Xiaoyao Street was located at the border between the slums and the main city. It was a chaotic mix of black markets and the Royal City’s infamous red-light district.

Everything there was cheap, whether it was goods or services.

Their surprise stemmed from the nature of the place. However, they remained silent, adhering to their roles as obedient subordinates.

“What are we doing on Xiaoyao Street, Master?”

Carol was more familiar with the street than Roden and Philip. Her mother used to sew cheap clothes for a shop there.

She still remembered her mother working tirelessly from dawn till dusk, earning only a handful of copper coins each day. They were lucky if they could afford a few stale loaves of bread.

If the local thugs came to collect their “protection money,” they would go hungry.

Perhaps it was because of Carol’s white hair and red eyes, seen as a sign of bad luck, that even the thugs kept their distance, fearing they might be contaminated by her misfortune.

Carol was bad luck, while money was good luck. That was their belief.

Memories flooded her mind, bringing tears to her eyes.

Warm droplets trickled down her cheeks, only to be caught by a gentle hand.

Kailun wiped away her tears. “If you need to cry, come to me. I’ll offer you a shoulder to lean on. As for why we’re going to Xiaoyao Street? It’s for you, silly girl. Have you forgotten the promise I made when we signed the contract? Those who have caused you pain will face retribution. As the personal maid of a villain, you should understand this.”

He pulled her into his arms, instilling his philosophy in her.

They were both victims of the world’s cruelty. That was why he empathized with her.

They were both villains, one a pitiful and tragic figure, the other the world’s ultimate destroyer.

“No!”

Carol looked up at him, her eyes filled with distress. “In my heart, you’ll always be the best person. So please don’t be sad. Even if you become a villain, I’ll stay by your side.”

Sensing the deep sorrow emanating from him, she poured out her feelings, her tears flowing freely.

Chapter 29: The Erudite Kailun

“Good girl. That’s what a mother should be like.”

Kailun nuzzled her cheek. “Let me see what you’re studying. Oh, magic circle inscription. Interesting.”

“You recognize this?” Anna turned to face him, her lips accidentally brushing against his cheek.

She wanted to pull away, but remembering her promise, she settled for a quick peck before retreating.

“Of course I do. This method was popular many years ago. It even spawned a new school of magic. They were called Close-Combat Mages. However, as they inscribed more and more circles, they exceeded their bodies’ limits, causing their forms to change. This transformation was called ‘Fallen.’ Fallen humans were no longer human.”

Pleased by her earlier compliance, he added, “Later, someone attempted to improve this method, increasing the body’s tolerance. But the risks remained significant. I don’t recommend this path for you. You should focus on meditation and building a solid foundation. There will be safer shortcuts for you in the future.”

Anna stared at him, astonished. This eloquent and knowledgeable Kailun was a far cry from the one she remembered.

The more time she spent with him, the more she noticed his transformation. It was as if he had aged years in a single day.

This confidence and maturity were qualities the old Kailun lacked.

“Are you really Kailun?”

“Who else would I be?”

He chuckled and pulled her onto his lap, his hands finding their way beneath her clothes, exploring her sensitive spots. A soft moan escaped her lips as he grazed her skin.

While her heart remained unconquered, her body had been thoroughly molded to his touch after a night of “diligent effort.”

“Tell me, am I still the same Kailun?” He squeezed her gently.

“Pervert…” she whispered, her voice trembling.

Her eyes glazed over as his touch overwhelmed her senses. She leaned against his chest, seeking support.

His strong heartbeat calmed her unexpectedly.

She was undeniably alluring at this moment, a captivating blend of youthful innocence and mature sensuality. Her increasingly heavy breathing stirred his desires.

He traced patterns on her smooth thigh, savoring the feel of her soft skin. Each gentle press elicited a delightful bounce.

Of course, different areas yielded different responses.

To verify these variations, he diligently explored every inch of her, meticulously cataloging the subtle differences.

Perhaps he got carried away, but a bolder idea took root in his mind. He cast a small soundproofing spell, ensuring their activities remained private.

“Whoosh!”

He swept the precious forbidden scrolls off the table, creating a space for her to lie down.

“Slap!”

He swatted her most responsive area. “Now, lie down and study diligently. I’ll teach you some new knowledge.”

He picked up a random scroll and placed it in her hand.

Anna: “？？?”

She initially wondered what he was planning to teach her, but as she lay on the table, her legs and buttocks exposed, realization dawned.

Before she could protest, she felt a chill as her skirt was pulled down.

A cool breeze made her instinctively clench her legs. This exposed feeling was not pleasant.

Thankfully, the chill was short-lived. It was quickly replaced by a burning heat.

Kailun stood behind her, his posture confident. “To help you understand this new knowledge, read the text on the scroll aloud.”

“Hmm… The magic circuit is… hmm, the pathway for mana transmission. This pathway is… tight and difficult to expand. Therefore… forceful mana output can cause… slight damage to the circuit, often accompanied by pain.”

Anna clutched the scroll, her body rocking back and forth on the table, her voice strained and broken, as if suppressing something.

“However, if the mana output is stable and controlled, the magic circuit will experience a comfortable flow. Each cycle of mana accumulation and release is a process of compression. Only by compressing it to its limit can one unleash powerful magic…”

It was the same process, but this time, Anna experienced it in a completely different light. She finally understood the importance of mana control.

[Anna’s favorability towards you has increased by 10 due to your dedicated teaching. Current favorability: -30.]

…

An hour later, Carol woke up.

She clutched the coat Kailun had draped over her, her heart warming at the sight of him reading a scroll at the table.

However, Anna’s behavior puzzled her. She was meticulously wiping the table with a towel, her face flushed, as if she had a fever.

Noticing Carol’s curious gaze, Kailun said, “Carol, you can warm my bed tonight.”

“Huh? Me?” Carol looked down at her still-undeveloped body, her confidence wavering.

Kailun chuckled and flicked her forehead. “What are you thinking? I just need a warm body to cuddle. I told you, I won’t touch you until you’re healthy.”

The main issue was Anna’s weak constitution. Her magic circuits could barely handle his mana output. A simple replenishment was enough to fill her to the brim. If he got carried away, she might actually break.

“Oh…”

Carol felt a twinge of disappointment.

Even she had to admit that her current figure paled in comparison to Anna’s. She wanted him to see her at her best, not as a mere obligation.

As they chatted, Anna set down the towel and touched her stomach.

Although hidden beneath her clothes, she could feel the slave mark pulsing with heat.

And she finally understood the source of that strange fullness in her abdomen…

Chapter 28: Anna’s Flexible Bottom Line

“Inscribing magic circles on one’s body is indeed powerful, but the side effects are significant. If not controlled properly, one could be consumed by magic and reduced to ashes. More importantly, it can lead to corruption by a strange force, causing mental instability. But what exactly is this strange force? I’ve examined countless forbidden scrolls, and none of them explain it.”

Anna sat surrounded by a mountain of forbidden scrolls, containing not only secret information but also dangerous and forbidden knowledge.

Kailun had granted her access to these scrolls, fulfilling his promise to provide her with the resources she desired.

However, the deeper she delved into her research, the more she sensed something deliberately concealed.

It seemed the forbidden scrolls held a true taboo.

Initially, she had shared Paul’s ambition, planning to inscribe magic circles on her own body. But after extensive research, she discovered the inherent risks and abandoned the idea.

Immersed in her studies, she had even forgotten about her predicament as Kailun’s slave.

Her sorrow gradually faded as she lost herself in the pursuit of knowledge.

Kailun returned to the garden and found Anna engrossed in her research, while Carol lay asleep on the table. He quietly approached and draped his coat over Carol.

He gently stroked her hair, a fatherly smile gracing his lips.

If only everyone was as pure and kind as Carol. Then he would be the only villain in the world.

Anna sensed his presence and glanced at him.

Seeing his genuine smile, she couldn’t tell which version of him was real.

Could a devil truly smile like that?

She closed the scroll, lost in thought.

Kailun, noticing her gaze, walked over and embraced her from behind. His hands rested on her flat stomach, his fingers tracing patterns on her skin.

“Your brother asked me to help find you today. He said you were missing. It seems he cares about you quite a bit. He didn’t even want to involve the academy. I wonder if he has something to hide. Oh, and he even offered to split his scholarship with me to find you. Quite generous, don’t you think?”

His words were like a devil’s whisper, his sharp tongue slicing through her defenses.

“Don’t try to sow discord between us. Do you really think I’d believe you?” Anna retorted coldly.

He chuckled, pleased by her icy glare. “I’m not interested in your belief. I’m more curious about your brother’s reaction when he sees you with a big belly in ten months. Hmm, not only did I help him find his sister, but I also gave him a niece or nephew. I’m such a good person. Buy one, get one free. Not everyone can offer such a deal.”

Fear flickered in Anna’s eyes. She looked down at his hand on her stomach, wondering if she could actually be pregnant.

She had felt a strange fullness in her abdomen all day. Could it be…

The more she thought about it, the more terrified she became. She only had to serve him for a year to gain her freedom. During that time, she could not only improve her strength but also earn a considerable amount of money. She could convince herself to endure it.

But what if she was truly carrying his child?

What would happen to the baby if she left?

Should she get rid of it?

No, that was too cruel. The child was innocent. It was all Kailun’s fault.

Should she give it up for adoption?

Equally cruel. What if the adoptive parents were terrible?

Should she raise it alone?

A childhood without a father was incomplete. Wouldn’t that be repeating her own childhood trauma?

As her thoughts spiraled, a subtle shift occurred. She even started brainstorming potential names for the child.

If only Kailun knew what was going through her mind. He would have laughed for a year.

“Don’t worry, I’ll raise the child after you leave. I’ll give her the best education, the best clothes, the best food. And I’ll tell her that her mother was a bad woman. A bad woman who toyed with my heart and then abandoned me, leaving me all alone. I’ll tell her all sorts of terrible things about you, making her hate you for the rest of her life…”

He whispered in her ear, nibbling on her earlobe, his gentle voice delivering the cruelest words, piercing her heart.

Trying to numb herself with self-deception?

He wouldn’t give her that luxury.

“No!”

As he predicted, his words finally broke her.

Freshly transitioned into womanhood, her heart was at its most vulnerable. His words struck a chord, triggering her maternal instincts.

She could be cruel to others, even to him, but she couldn’t be cruel to her own child. It was an innate instinct.

Having been deprived of maternal love herself, this instinct had grown stronger over time, becoming her Achilles’ heel.

“You can’t be so cruel! Do whatever you want to me, but don’t do this to my child!” Her icy facade crumbled, replaced by a desperate plea.

But begging a villain for mercy was a futile endeavor.

He traced a circle around her navel with his finger. “If you don’t want me to do this, then obey me. Don’t look at me like I owe you a fortune. Don’t be sarcastic or cold. When I return, greet me properly. Massage my shoulders when I’m tired. Offer me a lap pillow when I’m sleepy. Have the kitchen prepare food when I’m hungry. And warm my bed at night. And most importantly, do all this willingly.”

He could force her to do all this through the contract, but it was far more satisfying to have her serve him willingly.

Thanks to his unique talents, he realized that pushing her favorability to its lowest point was no longer feasible. He might as well enjoy her company.

“I… I understand.”

After a fierce internal struggle, Anna finally relented.

[Anna’s favorability towards you has increased by 10. Current favorability: -40.]

It seemed that after breaking her bottom line, she no longer had one.

The possibility of a child had significantly increased her tolerance for him.

Chapter 27: Kailun: Paul, You Must Study Hard!

He had managed to push her favorability to -50 in a single day. At this rate, they might even have a child by tomorrow.

He had tormented Vivian and enjoyed himself in the process. Such mutually beneficial outcomes were his favorite.

He withdrew his slightly damp finger and placed it on Phils’ thigh. As a true playboy, he believed in equal opportunity, at least in appearance.

However, Phils didn’t appreciate his gesture. She blocked his hand with a fierce determination.

Sensing the lingering moisture on his finger, she shot him a reproachful look.

He mentally labeled her as “too immersed in her role.”

He spent most of the hour-long lesson engaged in a silent battle beneath the table, finding a strange amusement in toying with the girls.

Afterwards, he even invited Vivian and Hilna to his house, but both declined.

He was disappointed. If they had agreed, he could have achieved a double kill tonight.

With both sisters under his control, he wouldn’t have to carry dangerous magic scrolls for protection when dealing with Hilna.

As a cautious villain, Kailun was always prepared.

He left the office with a lingering sense of satisfaction. Phils, after exchanging a glance with Hilna, followed him out, leaving the two princesses alone.

“You’re a liar! You tricked me!” Vivian glared at Hilna, her face devoid of its usual cheer.

“You’re still too young, Vivian. You don’t understand. If I hadn’t done this, we might have faced a far worse fate. Do you want to be sold as a courtesan in some back alley?” Hilna accepted her sister’s hatred with indifference. As long as Vivian obeyed her, she was still useful.

After all, she was a princess. Even as a mere plaything, she held a certain allure.

Vivian’s petite and adorable appearance appealed to many hidden desires. Why not exploit that to her advantage?

“You’re a liar! I hate you!”

“If hating me makes you feel better, then hate me all you want…”

…

“Kailun, did Princess Hilna lose her mind? Why is she suddenly being nice to you instead of targeting you?” Phils asked, clinging to his arm as they left the office.

Their earlier reactions had been mostly for show. She wasn’t truly angry, and even if she was, her emotional intelligence wouldn’t allow her to reveal it.

“Before I answer that, you need to figure out who’s behind the Youlan(Orchid) Castle.”

“Who?”

“The Second Prince, Lodis.”

“It’s him?!”

Even Phils couldn’t help but gasp. Realizing that she had almost asked Kailun to take her to that banquet, a blush crept up her neck.

The Second Prince was notorious not only for his backing from the Divine Church but also for his scandalous lifestyle. Countless individuals in the Royal City considered it an honor to attend his parties.

Phils’ beauty had once caught his eye, but he had demanded that she gain some “experience” before approaching him. She had, of course, politely refused.

She may have been ambitious, but she wasn’t willing to degrade herself for it.

Then, a more pressing matter occurred to her. She tightened her grip on his arm. “You’re not actually planning on attending his banquet, are you?”

The thought of him attending such a depraved event filled her with unease. She didn’t mind him having multiple wives and concubines, but she couldn’t bear the thought of him entangled with those unsavory women.

“I’m a bit curious, but I prefer beautiful and clean women. I won’t throw myself away for a party like that.” He chuckled, enjoying her anxious expression. “Besides, haven’t you figured it out yet? Where’s the clever Phils I know?”

“You mean both the Second Prince and Princess Hilna are trying to win you over?!”

Kailun’s subtle hint was all she needed. “That explains Hilna’s strange behavior today. It makes sense with the Second Prince involved. Poor Vivian. She’s just a pawn in Hilna’s game. She looked like she was about to cry when you were bullying her earlier.”

“This is just the beginning. There are even better days ahead for them. Bad girls will eventually become slaves!”

His words carried a hint of malice, directed partly at her.

She was baffled. She hadn’t done anything to offend him, had she?

She couldn’t understand.

After leaving the academy, Kailun escorted Phils home before checking on their shop. He confirmed that Philip remained loyal and then headed home.

…

“Ugh!”

Paul coughed up a mouthful of blood in his room.

However, his pale face was lit up with excitement.

After countless attempts, he had finally succeeded. Using the knowledge from the forbidden scroll, he had successfully inscribed a small magic circle on his body.

“Windwalk!”

He chanted, his body glowing with a faint blue light as mana coursed through him.

With a light step, he floated forward, his speed several times faster than an ordinary person.

As expected of the protagonist. His talent for magic was undeniable. Even Kailun was envious. Perhaps the only one who could truly surpass him was Carol, the final boss.

“The success of Windwalk proves that this path is viable. With some modifications, I can inscribe even more magic circles on my body. This will not only eliminate casting time but also significantly reduce mana consumption. If I add mana storage and large-scale attack circles, I’ll become a true weapon of war!”

He muttered excitedly, forgetting about his missing sister and his drunken father.

At this rate, with enough magic circles and resources, he could achieve an incredible rate of growth. This was the key to his rise to power.

…

[Due to Paul’s diligent study and practice, you have received 100 free attribute points based on your favorability ratio.]

Kailun received this good news the moment he stepped through his front door.

Chapter 26: Vivian’s Transformation

Even Hilna, who had been trying to ignore the situation, couldn’t pretend any longer. She cleared her throat and said impassively, “Vivian, didn’t you mention wanting to attend a banquet to unwind? I just heard that Kailun is going to the one at the Youlan(Orchid) Castle. Why don’t you go with him? What do you think, dear brother?”

Vivian’s jaw dropped. She knew Hilna’s intention was to publicly display their closeness to Kailun, severing any possibility of cooperation between him and the Second Prince.

But that banquet was a den of iniquity!

Sending a pure and innocent girl like her to such a scandalous event was a recipe for disaster!

She would be corrupted! Ruined!

“Sure, I happen to need a companion. I’d be happy to be the princess’s escort.” Kailun grinned, his arm still wrapped around Vivian’s waist.

He had no intention of “soiling” her. He simply wanted to use this opportunity to torment her further.

Kailun possessed a strong possessive streak. Only he was allowed to bully those he claimed. Anyone else who dared to harbor such thoughts would face dire consequences.

If he played his cards right, he could harvest a substantial amount of negative favorability from this.

Vivian froze, her petite body trembling like a shattered statue.

She hated her family, and she hated Kailun even more.

‘I will never forgive this devil…’

A vow of vengeance took root in her wounded heart.

“What about me? What about me?” Phils, in stark contrast to Vivian’s despair, looked at Kailun expectantly.

Unaware that the banquet was hosted by the Second Prince, she desperately wanted to go with him.

“Maybe next time.”

“How mean! You’re leaving me behind? I won’t forget this!”

Phils swatted his hand away from her thigh, preventing him from further exploration.

Ripped stockings were a minor inconvenience, but her wounded pride was a different matter.

“Then I’ll entrust Vivian to your care. Please ensure her safety. If you perform well, I can, on behalf of my father, promise you her hand in marriage.” Hilna seized the opportunity to solidify their alliance.

“But I don’t want to get married so soon.” Kailun feigned reluctance, his hand still lingering on Vivian’s waist.

“A concubine would suffice. Your relationship with Vivian concerns not only yourselves but also the bond between the royal family and the Duke’s family. Both my father and I hope you’ll marry her, or at least take her as a concubine. Are you truly unwilling?”

Hilna gritted her teeth. To secure Kailun’s allegiance, she was willing to sell out her own sister.

Yesterday, she was plotting to imprison him. Today, she was trying to win his favor. Events were unfolding far more rapidly than she anticipated.

Why was everything going wrong?

Since yesterday, her plans had crumbled one after another. Individuals who shouldn’t have appeared at this stage were making their moves. Her carefully laid plans were falling apart, leaving her at a disadvantage.

Phils was no longer a useful pawn. She could only keep her close to Kailun for now, waiting for the right moment to strike.

As for Vivian, she was merely a tool to be used in emergencies.

This wasn’t a discussion; Vivian had no right to refuse.

She held no power within the royal family. Unloved and unwanted, she was destined to be a pawn in their political games.

Even if she wasn’t offered to Kailun, Hilna would eventually marry her off to someone else. She felt no guilt whatsoever.

As Kailun had observed, Hilna was a woman consumed by her own ambition.

“But Vivian doesn’t seem very happy about this.” He moved his hand from her waist to her face, pinching her cheeks playfully.

This little devil had explored every inch of his body in his past life. Now it was his turn.

Hilna crossed her arms. “Her opinion is irrelevant, isn’t it?”

“That’s not very nice…”

“Vivian, I’m asking you, are you willing to give yourself to Kailun? If you agree, I’ll grant you your freedom. After a month, you can do whatever you want. I won’t interfere.”

Hilna used freedom as bait. It was the key to swaying Vivian.

In her mind, a month was more than enough time to eliminate all her obstacles. By then, both Kailun and the Second Prince would be dead.

Their demise would mark her ascension to the throne.

“You already said it yourself, sister. My opinion doesn’t matter, does it?”

Vivian fought back tears, her heart twisting with a newfound intensity, far exceeding the turmoil she had felt upon meeting Kailun.

If she had the chance, she would turn Hilna into her own pet, forcing her to beg for scraps.

She would even have Hilna’s most hated enemy torment her, breaking her spirit and twisting her into something grotesque.

Her hatred blossomed, directed not only at Kailun but also at Hilna and the entire world.

Thanks to Kailun’s “nurturing,” Vivian was evolving in an unpredictable direction.

Kailun, familiar with her true nature, saw the darkness brewing in her eyes and discreetly wrote a message on her thigh with his finger.

‘Want to see your sister become a dog?’

Vivian’s eyes widened in shock as she deciphered the message.

‘If you do, squeeze my finger with your thighs. I’ll grant your wish.’

Her mind, already reeling, struggled to process this new information.

Kailun had designs on her sister?

He wasn’t as simple as he appeared?

What was he planning?

Countless questions swirled in her head, but the allure of his promise proved too strong. She discreetly placed his hand beneath her skirt, trapping it between her thighs.

“If there are no objections, I’ll continue the lesson. Please refrain from making any more strange noises.” Hilna glanced at them before turning her attention back to the blackboard.

Kailun had no objections. He was currently enjoying the unique sensation of Vivian’s touch.

Her feet were small, soft, and fragrant, a completely different experience compared to other girls.

To maximize her discomfort, he slowly slid his fingers up her inner thigh. If not for her desperate defense, he would have already reached her untouched territory.

But even the most vigilant defenses had their weaknesses. He finally reached her most sensitive spot and gently wrote a message on it with his finger.

Each stroke made her squirm and gasp, her eyes clouding with desire.

Her petite body was experiencing an intense awakening, a mixture of shame and fascination.

As he finished the last word and gently poked her, she froze.

‘You’ve been tricked, you fool~ (poke)’

[Vivian’s favorability towards you has decreased by 10 due to your lie. Current favorability: -50.]

Chapter 25: The Desire to Lead His Sister

“You’ve heard about the incident at the Magic Shop, haven’t you?” Hilna asked casually as they walked, her tone light and conversational.

“The Magic Shop? Yes, Roden mentioned it this afternoon, but I wasn’t paying much attention. Is there something I should know?” Kailun feigned ignorance.

He acted as if he genuinely didn’t care, which put Hilna at ease.

If he was still the same incompetent Kailun, all she had to do was prevent him from being swayed by the Second Prince.

Of course, the ideal scenario would be to instigate a conflict between them, letting them weaken each other. That would be the most beneficial outcome for her.

“Well, I wanted to explain the situation. It was all a misunderstanding. My subordinates…” She trailed off, tucking a stray strand of hair behind her ear, revealing her elegant profile.

“I trust you, Teacher Hilna. Surely a teacher wouldn’t harm her student, right?” Kailun interrupted, his gaze innocent and trusting.

His eyes held both admiration for her beauty and respect for her as a teacher. This blend of emotions made his expression seem incredibly genuine.

Despite her supposed animosity towards him, Hilna found herself averting her gaze.

A pang of guilt stabbed at her heart.

As an instructor, she had always fulfilled her duties diligently.

In the past, she could easily justify her actions with various excuses. But facing Kailun now, her hypocrisy was laid bare.

She was, after all, a selfish person.

“I’m glad you think so. If you don’t mind, you can call me ‘sister.’ It would be an honor to have such an outstanding younger brother. What do you say? Would you mind having a sister like me?”

She met his gaze, her rose-scented perfume filling his senses.

Her beauty was flawless. Even at such close proximity, he couldn’t find a single imperfection.

Her cold, regal features stirred a primal urge within him.

He wanted to dominate her, to leash her, to parade her around his garden like a prized possession.

She was exquisite, a beautiful and thorny rose. Anyone who dared to approach would be pricked and used.

Vivian wanted a pet, while Hilna treated everyone like one.

His gaze traveled down her slender neck, past her delicate collarbone, to the hint of cleavage peeking from her blouse. He swallowed hard, his throat bobbing.

He pretended to be overwhelmed by her charm, averting his gaze. “Of course I wouldn’t mind… but…”

“There are no ‘buts.’ You have to believe in your potential. Why else would I go through all this trouble to tutor you?” She gently patted his head, her lies practically dripping from her lips.

If not for the need to maintain this charade, he might have kissed her right then and there. At this distance, she wouldn’t stand a chance.

However, gaining a “sister” was a welcome development. It would make his revenge all the more satisfying.

“…I’ll do as you say.”

Hilna had been tempted to seduce him herself, but the cost was too high.

In her mind, everything had a price. She could achieve the same result using Phils and Vivian. There was no need to sacrifice herself yet.

“Good. Then let’s begin your lesson, dear brother.”

She released his hand and led him towards her private office, her emotions carefully masked.

Kailun seized the opportunity to squeeze her hand, his fingers tracing patterns on her palm.

She maintained her serene smile, unfazed by his boldness.

Hilna thought too highly of herself. Even his subtle advances failed to elicit any emotional response, let alone affect her favorability.

Her composure dampened his enjoyment.

As they reached the office door, she released his hand.

“Kailun’s here. Let’s begin our lesson.”

She entered the office, addressing Phils and Vivian, who were already waiting.

Phils greeted him with a barely perceptible smile, while Vivian shot him a disdainful look.

If not for Hilna’s orders, she wouldn’t be caught dead in the same room as him.

So far, everything was proceeding normally. Hilna set up a small blackboard and briefly explained the reason for the extra lesson before launching into her lecture.

Kailun, Phils, and Vivian were seated on the same long bench, with him strategically placed between the two girls.

This wasn’t a lesson; it was a blatant seduction attempt.

Kailun rested his hand on Phils’ thigh and nodded approvingly. He appreciated such straightforwardness. If only Hilna would join them on his lap, it would be perfect.

[Vivian’s favorability towards you has decreased by 10 due to your inappropriate behavior. Current favorability: -40.]

Vivian, seated to his right, noticed his wandering hand and glared at him.

Before she could even formulate a mental complaint, his arm snaked around her waist, his fingers gently caressing her side.

She shot Hilna a pleading look, but the princess ignored her.

Creep! Scum! Pervert!

Her eyes conveyed her silent accusations. However, her expression only fueled his excitement.

‘Yes, yes, yes! That’s the look! I must have looked the same way back then!’

Lost in his enjoyment, he unconsciously tightened his grip on Phils’ thigh, ripping her stockings.

Rip!

“Hmm~”

The sound of tearing fabric and Phils’ soft moan echoed through the small office.

All eyes turned to Kailun. Phils blushed and lowered her head. Vivian glared at him with disgust. Hilna sighed in exasperation.

If only he had been more discreet, she might have pretended not to notice.

Chapter 24: An Invitation to a “Party”?

“Kailun, Kailun, have you heard anything about my sister?”

Paul rushed over the moment Kailun entered the classroom.

He was far from the confident and charismatic figure he would become in the future. Right now, he was just an ordinary boy with a touch of cunning.

Perhaps that was why Kailun wasn’t particularly interested in him. He preferred toying with Paul’s sister and childhood friend.

“I’m sorry, Paul, but I haven’t received any news about Anna yet. But don’t worry, I’ve sent out a lot of people to look for her. I’ll contact you immediately if we find anything. And if anyone dares to harm her, I’ll…” He paused, his voice hardening. “I’ll make sure they suffer the same fate.”

“Huh?”

“I mean, if anyone dares to hurt Anna, we’ll make them pay.” Kailun calmly corrected himself.

“No, Kailun, you’re too kind. If anyone hurts my sister, we should kill their entire family!” Paul clenched his fists.

As expected of the protagonist. Always resorting to genocide. Kailun decided to take notes.

“I understand. Next time we encounter an enemy, we’ll kill their entire family. No, that’s too merciful. We’ll kill all the men and enslave the women. Especially the pretty and clean ones. We’ll take them home and keep them for ourselves.”

Kailun’s intense gaze sent a shiver down Paul’s spine. He felt like Kailun was targeting him.

But they were friends. They hadn’t had any disagreements. He couldn’t understand why Kailun would target him. He dismissed the feeling as a mere illusion.

Paul and Anna shared a deep-seated hatred for nobles. When they were young, their beautiful mother had been abducted by a minor noble. Their father, threatened by the noble’s power, had done nothing.

After just half a month, their mother was returned, broken and battered. She died a few days later.

They had reported the incident to the enforcement squad, but nothing came of it.

This was the source of their hatred, and Kailun understood it.

However, the irony was that their revenge wasn’t directed at the noble who had wronged them. Paul’s future justification was that the culprit had left the Xiya Kingdom and held a high position, making him untouchable.

This “untouchable” excuse made Paul’s supposed hatred seem laughable. The most amusing part was that he eventually became the very thing he despised: a noble.

Looking at the self-righteous “hero” before him, Kailun almost questioned his surname. Why did the future Paul constantly bring up his deceased mother?

Perhaps it was due to their differing ideologies that Paul and Anna eventually parted ways.

Anna continued her path of revenge, while Paul remained the pure and noble hero.

He was called the protagonist, but Kailun saw him as a clown.

It was a shame he hadn’t witnessed the moment Paul was crushed by the final boss, Carol. That was his biggest regret from his past life.

He had left the stage too early, missing out on many interesting events.

“Kailun, my friend, I’ll leave my sister in your capable hands. Don’t worry, when we find her, I’ll put in a good word for you.”

Unable to bear Kailun’s intense gaze any longer, Paul excused himself and returned to his seat.

Kailun chuckled knowingly. Paul was still too boring at this stage.

…

The afternoon classes were uneventful. Kailun struggled to stay awake as he listened to the simple and straightforward lessons.

As he left the classroom after school, he bumped into a flamboyantly dressed woman.

She wore a revealing outfit and heavy makeup, like a courtesan from one of the Royal City’s shady establishments.

Her pungent perfume made him wrinkle his nose and take a step back.

“Lord Kailun, would you do me the honor of attending a banquet at The Youlan(Orchid) Castle tomorrow evening?”

She leaned closer, giving him a generous view of her cleavage.

His first thought was, “She’s inviting me to an org*.”

His second thought was, “Seriously? With those assets?” Did she really think he was a naive virgin?

He had tasted Anna, one of the Five Great Beauties of the Royal City. This woman was far from his league.

“Thank you for the invitation, but I’m afraid I must decline. I’m a student at the Royal Magic Academy, and my only focus is on my studies.” He took another step back. He had no interest in attending such events.

“Are you sure? This banquet is hosted by His Highness. He specifically requested your presence.” She was surprised. Few dared to refuse the Second Prince.

“Is it an org* hosted by the Second Prince? I mean, is the banquet hosted by the Second Prince?” His thoughts had slipped out.

He couldn’t believe someone was actually inviting him to an org*.

The Second Prince had a peculiar taste. He disliked innocent girls, preferring experienced women. Not quite “married women,” but definitely “worldly.”

He was known for hosting extravagant and scandalous parties. He was practically the king of org*es in the Xiya Kingdom.

“The Youlan(Orchid) Castle is His Highness’s private residence. Naturally, he is the host.”

“Alright, I accept.”

Realizing the Second Prince’s motive, Kailun agreed.

He wasn’t attending out of curiosity. He was simply using this opportunity to bait a bigger fish.

If the Second Prince was trying to befriend him, what would Hilna do?

He was eager to find out.

“Do you need a companion, Lord Kailun? If not, I can introduce you to someone. I guarantee you’ll have an unforgettable experience.” She winked suggestively.

“I have a companion.” He replied coldly.

He brushed past her, dismissing her as a mere messenger.

“Well, well, well. Teacher Hilna, are you waiting here to tutor me?”

He rounded a corner and found Hilna waiting for him.

Learning of his acceptance of the Second Prince’s invitation had unsettled her. If Kailun sided with the Second Prince, her position would become precarious.

She had no choice but to force Vivian’s hand.

“Let’s go. It’s time for your lesson. But today, you’ll be joined by Vivian and Phils. I expect you all to get along.”

Chapter 23: Complex and Twisted Emotions

The girl was none other than Vivian, Princess Hilna’s half-sister.

Personality-wise, she was Hilna’s polar opposite. Beneath her innocent and kind exterior lay a cunning and mischievous heart.

Kailun had suffered greatly at her hands in his past life, especially during his imprisonment. For some reason, the little princess had taken an interest in him, subjecting him to countless pranks and torments.

Driven by curiosity, she had forced him to play with various “toys,” leaving him with nothing but unpleasant memories.

Thankfully, she had only indulged in superficial experimentation, never truly crossing the line. Otherwise, he might have broken long ago.

He loathed her for her actions.

However, this loathing paled in comparison to his hatred for Hilna. The reason for this discrepancy lay in the twisted and perverse nature of their relationship.

While Vivian constantly tormented him, she also brought him delicious food, kept him informed about the outside world, and became his sole source of information.

She would chat with him, joke with him, and even teach him advanced magic.

In a way, she had been a crucial mentor in his life. With her alluring lips, nimble fingers, and silk-clad feet, she had opened his eyes to a whole new world.

He had to admit, it had been… enjoyable.

This twisted pleasure had become his only outlet during his long imprisonment, leaving him with a complex mix of emotions towards her.

He saw her as a deviant, but not one he found entirely repulsive.

The phrase he heard most often from her during that time was, “Be my dog, won’t you?”

Unfortunately, she never received a positive response.

After his release, he rarely heard from her. Hilna, now Queen, had announced her intention to marry Vivian off to a prince from a neighboring kingdom.

However, just days after receiving this news, he learned of Vivian’s sudden death from illness, the day before she was to be sent away.

He never investigated whether these two events were connected, as he was preoccupied with other matters at the time.

However, one thing was certain: his hatred for her had diminished significantly from that moment on.

Even now, he couldn’t decipher his true feelings for her.

He loathed her, yes.

But he also felt a strange sense of closeness. After all, she had been his first, in a way. He had experienced everything but the final act.

It was precisely because of these complex emotions that he was so stunned to see her.

The difference now was that the roles were reversed.

To avenge her past torments, he would bully her relentlessly, striving to push her favorability to its lowest point.

And if possible, he would then raise it again.

Bad girls deserved to be punished. As for rewards, those would have to wait until her favorability turned positive.

Kailun, the villain, had set his sights on a new target. A triumphant fanfare echoed in his heart.

“You must be Kailun. My sister has told me so much about you.”

While Kailun observed Vivian, she was doing the same to him. After a brief eye contact, she skipped over to him, her dress swirling around her.

Despite being of legal age, she looked like a child, radiating innocence and charm.

Without prior knowledge, no one would suspect the twisted mind hidden beneath her sweet exterior.

Kailun believed that it was the corrupt environment of the royal palace that had warped her. In his past life, he had likely been her outlet for frustration.

In the depths of that dark dungeon, she had broken taboos, defied expectations, and indulged in acts that contradicted her angelic appearance.

“Hello, I’m Kailun. And what exactly did your sister say about me?” He suppressed his emotions and crouched down to her level, like a kind older brother.

“How rude! Asking a girl about another girl’s opinion of you! You must have no female friends!” Vivian raised an eyebrow, her large, expressive eyes blinking rapidly. Upon closer inspection, she resembled a younger version of Hilna.

Kailun puffed out his chest. “You’re wrong. I have plenty of female friends. And even a few female slaves.”

[Vivian’s favorability towards you has decreased by 10 upon learning of your promiscuous lifestyle.]

As expected, her favorability dropped effortlessly.

“Oh? Really? My sister was considering betrothing me to you to strengthen the bond between the royal family and the Duke’s family. But it seems that’s no longer an option.” She feigned disappointment.

Kailun reached out and patted her head. “Don’t worry, it won’t affect anything. I still have plenty of concubine positions available. If you’re interested, Princess, you’re welcome to claim one. In fact, I’ll have my father write to the king tonight to request your hand in marriage. You may be small, but you’re quite adorable.”

[Vivian’s favorability towards you has decreased by 20 due to your creepy behavior. Current favorability: -30. You have received a 30% attribute bonus.]

“No, no, I have to go to class now! It’s about to start! Goodbye!”

Vivian’s smile turned stiff as she hurried away.

She had researched Kailun beforehand, believing he might be an interesting target. That was why she had agreed to Hilna’s request.

However, upon meeting him, she found him to be a vulgar and promiscuous individual. He wasn’t even worthy of being her dog!

“I didn’t expect that little devil to be an important character. But why did she disappear so early in my past life?” Kailun mused, watching her retreating figure.

His probing had revealed her true purpose. It was Hilna’s doing, as he suspected.

However, his creepy behavior had scared her off. She was unlikely to harbor any romantic notions towards him now.

But this wasn’t over. Just because she wasn’t interested in him didn’t mean he couldn’t be interested in her.

If she hadn’t used that knife in his past life, he wouldn’t have felt such strong aversion towards her.

“Young Master, have you taken a liking to the little princess?” Roden, noticing the uncontainable smile on Kailun’s face, chuckled. “Once your plan succeeds, both princesses will be yours for the taking. No one will be able to defy your commands.”

Kailun quickly composed himself. “You misunderstand, Roden. I simply find this amusing.”

Character:

Princess Vivian