《The Princess and The Queen Want me as their personal Slave?》


 Chapter 2: Cross Dressing?!

    Chapter 2 - Cross Dressing?!


    She continued to watch my body with an eager gaze. I sighed helplessly. Back in the village, most of the girls were always eager to help me, especially when it came to washing by the riverside. So, I was used to it¡ªit didn''t bother me too much.


    But her touch... it was different. Every gentle brush of her hand against my skin sent a strange tingle through me. It wasn''t unpleasant, but it wasn''t something I was used to either. She washed every inch of my body with meticulous care, as if trying to memorize every detail. By the time she was done, my face had flushed a deep red. She gave a satisfied nod and began drying me off with a soft towel.


    Feeling awkward but curious, I broke the silence, my voice barely above a whisper, "Your Majesty, could you perhaps tell me... why did you help bathe me?"


    My eyes met hers with innocent curiosity, and I could tell she felt it¡ªmy sincerity was palpable.


    Her cheeks turned pink, and she looked away for a moment before gently putting some clothes on me. "Hmm... don''t ask questions unless I give you permission, okay?" Her tone was calm, but I could sense the embarrassment behind it.


    I simply nodded, choosing not to press further. Once she finished dressing me, she didn''t waste any time. Taking my hand, we walked through the hallways toward her private chambers.


    As we passed maids and servants, I could feel their amused stares. Their eyes lingered on me with a mixture of curiosity and mischief, making me feel self-conscious. I tried to keep my gaze low and make myself as small as possible.


    While walking, I realized that I barely reached her shoulder in height. That annoyed me slightly, but I kept my feelings to myself.


    When we finally reached her room, she closed the door behind us and turned to face me. Her cheeks were flushed again¡ªthis time with anticipation. Without warning, she pushed me gently onto the bed and began undressing me once more.


    "W-What are you doing, Your Majesty?!" I asked, my voice rising with panic.


    She gave me a slight smile, though there was a hint of irritation in her expression. "Didn''t I tell you not to speak unless I allow it?" Her voice took on a more authoritative tone, one that didn''t leave room for disobedience.


    Soon, she had stripped me down to just my undergarments. I shivered slightly, trying to cover myself from the sudden chill. She didn''t seem to notice¡ªor maybe she did¡ªand merely smiled again.


    Then, to my confusion, she grabbed a maid''s uniform.


    "What...?" I couldn''t finish my sentence before she started dressing me in it.


    My face turned bright red as she slipped the outfit onto me. The fabric was soft, yet the humiliation was hard to ignore. Still, I let her do it, helpless in her presence.


    Once I was fully dressed as a maid, she stepped back to admire her work. Her eyes sparkled with satisfaction before she pulled me into a tight embrace, her arms wrapping around me possessively.


    Minutes passed, her body pressed against mine, her warmth overwhelming. I felt increasingly uncomfortable, yet I couldn''t move. Her face still carried that flushed expression of excitement.


    Eventually, night fell. Moonlight poured into the room through her window. Finally, she released me from her grasp, stretching with a soft yawn, her body moving in a way that was both elegant and provocative.


    I groaned softly, my muscles sore from how tightly she had held me. She glanced at me with a look that said she wanted to hug me again, but instead, she spoke gently.


    "Can you tell me what happened?" she asked, her voice sincere. "Why did you become a slave?"


    That question hit me harder than I expected. I couldn''t hold it in anymore.


    Tears welled up in my eyes and started streaming down my face. She was startled, clearly not expecting such a reaction. Without a word, she pulled me back into her embrace, softer this time, warmer.


    "It''s okay," she whispered. "You can tell me everything¡ªyour sorrow, your pain, your sadness. I''ll listen."


    Her words pierced through the emotional wall I had tried so hard to maintain. As my crying slowly subsided, I began to speak¡ªhaltingly at first, but then more clearly.


    I told her everything. About the peaceful days in the village. About how, one night, everything turned to ash. How fire consumed our homes. How screams filled the air. And how, in the end, I was taken¡ªalone and afraid.


    Lucy listened quietly, her hand gently stroking my back as I spoke. When I finished, she let out a quiet sigh, her eyes full of pity.


    "You''re quite unfortunate, aren''t you?" she murmured. "But don''t worry. You''re in good hands now."


    Her words held a warmth that I didn''t know I needed. My heart, once heavy, began to lighten. Bit by bit, the clarity in my eyes returned. A faint hope flickered inside me.


    She smiled with satisfaction. Originally, her plan was simply to relieve her stress from the intense pressure of Expectations of others was really take a toll on her. She had grown cold from isolation, distant from everyone around her.


    But then I appeared¡ªan innocent boy with a painful past. And unexpectedly, she found solace in me.


    Eventually, she let me go and gestured for me to wait. A few minutes later, a maid entered, carrying a tray of food.


    The maid''s eyes widened when she saw me. Dressed in a maid''s outfit, my face still damp with traces of tears, I could feel her gaze soften with affection. A mix of curiosity and something else lingered in her expression.


    Lucy noticed too. Her face flickered with a bit of annoyance¡ªpossessiveness even¡ªbut she said nothing. With a small gesture, she ordered the maid to leave. The maid obeyed, though reluctantly.


    Once alone, Lucy sat beside me, her cheeks pink with excitement. She began feeding me gently, her fingers occasionally brushing my lips.


    "Good boy," she whispered, nuzzling my hair softly.


    I didn''t say anything. I was too hungry, too tired. I simply ate, savoring the warm food and the momentary peace.


    After the meal, she lay down beside me and pulled me into her arms again. This time, I didn''t resist. I returned the embrace, feeling a strange but welcome comfort.


    That night, for the first time in what felt like ages, I slept peacefully.


    As morning came and sunlight filtered into the room, Lucy stirred beside me. She stretched her alluring form with a satisfied sigh and smiled.


    Slowly, I opened my eyes too, feeling a little less broken than I had the day before.

 Chapter 4: Princess Training

    Chapter 4 - Princess Training


    Lucy calmly stored the shattered remains of the Talent Assessment Sphere into her spatial ring, leaving not a single trace behind. Before I could even process what had happened, she pulled out a new, identical sphere from storage and placed it on the pedestal as if nothing had ever happened.


    "Let them think you''re nothing special," she whispered with a smirk. "It''s safer that way."


    Then, as if the past few minutes of emotional whiplash hadn''t occurred, she grabbed my wrist and pulled me along through the palace halls.


    "Come," she said. "It''s time for breakfast."


    The corridors were as grand as ever¡ªpainted ceilings, golden pillars, sunlight streaming in through colored glass. Servants bowed as we passed, though many cast lingering stares at me. Their eyes often widened, some whispering behind cupped hands. I wasn''t sure if it was because I was still in a maid''s outfit... or because of my face.


    Either way, I wanted to sink into the ground.


    Eventually, we reached the grand dining hall¡ªmore of a banquet chamber, really. A table stretched long and wide like something out of a royal painting, lined with countless silver platters and dishes. Steam rose from roasted meats, sparkling fruit glistened under morning light, and rich sauces filled delicate bowls.


    Lucy took her seat at the head of the table with quiet authority, and I stood behind her like a proper servant... until she casually yanked me into the seat beside her. I nearly tripped over the hem of the maid skirt.


    To my surprise, another person was already seated near the far end of the table¡ªa girl who bore a striking resemblance to Lucy.


    She had raven-black hair that framed her pale, elegant face, and her piercing blue eyes glimmered with curiosity. Though different in coloring, the similarities between her and Lucy were clear in the shape of their lips, their poise, their air of nobility.


    Lucy gave her a small nod. "Sophia."


    "Big Sister," she replied in kind, equally formal. Despite being siblings, there wasn''t much warmth. It was cordial, respectful¡ªlike rivals who didn''t actively hate each other but wouldn''t share dessert either.


    But then Sophia''s eyes landed on me.


    Her interest visibly piqued, her aura brightened like a blooming flower. She tilted her head, smiling in delight. "Hmm? And who is this little thing?"


    Her gaze sparkled with amusement. "Where did you find such a boy?"


    Lucy sighed. "His name is Akashi. I bought him at the auction house. He was a slave... but he has potential."


    Sophia clapped her hands softly. "So pretty. He almost looks like a spirit summoned from a dream. How much for him? Twenty thousand gold coins?"


    Lucy didn''t flinch. Her tone was ice. "He''s not for sale."


    Sophia pouted, leaning forward with both charm and mischief. "Big sis, don''t be so heartless. What if I throw in a Purple-Talent knight as part of the trade? Loyal and strong. Deal?"


    Lucy didn''t even look at her. "I already said¡ªhe''s not for sale."


    With a dramatic sigh of defeat, Sophia leaned back and drank from her glass of juice. But as she did, Lucy lifted a delicacy with her fork¡ªsoft, golden pastry filled with cream¡ªand held it up.


    To me.


    "Open," she ordered, her tone playfully smug.


    Blushing, I opened my mouth. She fed me the pastry delicately, eyes locked with mine. Then, without a word, she took another bite from the same fork.


    Sophia choked.


    Juice nearly shot out her nose as she sputtered in shock. Her eyes widened, trying to process the scene. Lucy¡ªcold, untouchable, dignified Lucy¡ªwas feeding a boy like a doting wife and sharing utensils.


    Before leaving, Sophia walked past us, pausing by my side. Without warning, she leaned down and gently pressed her lips to my forehead.


    A soft kiss.


    "Akashi," she whispered, just loud enough for Lucy to hear. "Make sure to visit me when my Big sis is not treating you properly"


    Before Lucy could react, Sophia smirked, cast a teleportation spell, and vanished in a shimmer of blue light.


    The silence that followed was terrifying.


    Lucy''s aura burst outward, plates cracked, silverware trembled, and the roasted duck exploded in a puff of smoke. I sat frozen, unsure whether to run or hide under the table.


    She slowly turned to me, her eyes glowing.


    "That little sister of mine..." she growled.


    Then, before I could flinch, she grabbed my face and kissed my forehead exactly where Sophia had. Her lips were warm. The kiss lingered.


    "There. Mine."


    My mind broke for a moment. I didn''t know whether to be flattered or terrified.


    Still holding my face, she said coolly, "Come. Since you''re ''just a slave,'' we''re going to the training grounds. If people see me beat you a little, no one will ask questions."


    "W-Wait¡ªbeat me?"


    Her smile was far too serene. "Don''t worry. You might even enjoy it... a little."


    I couldn''t tell if she was joking. Probably. Maybe. Hopefully?


    We arrived at a private courtyard behind the palace. It was a training ground unlike any I''d ever seen: lush grass, floating practice targets, an ambient mana field gently vibrating in the air.


    She handed me a wooden sword and a basic mage staff, then took one for herself.


    "Today," she said, "we begin your real training. First, you need to feel mana."


    I nodded and sat cross-legged, eyes closed.


    "Focus," she instructed. "Feel the unnatural energy around you. It''s different from air, sound, heat. It''s like pressure¡ªpush against it, pull it toward you, and then shape it."


    I tried. At first, I felt nothing but the breeze.


    But gradually... something stirred.


    Minutes passed. Then an hour. Then two.


    And finally¡ªthere it was. A ball of warmth. Of light. Mana. Forming slowly inside my chest like a second heartbeat.


    My eyes opened, glowing faintly. "I... I think I did it."


    Lucy watched with calm admiration. "You formed a Mana Core already?"


    She raised an eyebrow. "That took me several days, even me with Orange Talent Most people take months or longer. You... really are dangerous."


    She explained more as I listened, still dazed. "Every stage have layers. Early, mid, peak. Right now, you''re early. Peak means you''re ready for the next stage¡ªtrue combat training."


    I nodded, but my legs were still nervous. "Wait... did you say combat?"


    She smiled and tapped the wooden sword in my hand. "Of course. You''ll need to be able to defend yourself."


    Then she winked.


    "And besides... if anyone''s going to bruise that pretty face of yours, it''ll be me."


    I gulped.


    Training had officially begun.


    And so had the danger.

 Chapter 6: Free Time

    Chapter 6 - Free Time


    She suddenly stopped and dried me off, despite only cleaning me for a few minutes. She exhaled, trying to focus and ignore the fire burning inside her.


    She exhales and tried to throw away all the inappropriate thoughts lingering in her mind


    she grabbed another maid''s outfit.


    I sighed helplessly and asked, "Not today, please, your majesty?" I thought to myself that I was probably just good looking at best.


    I looked at her, my eyes pleading. I tried to make myself as pitiful as possible, not wanting to be humiliated again.


    Lucy, noticing my pitiful act, became a bit flustered. He was too close, and she could feel his breath against her neck. She pulled away with a flushed face and reluctantly gave in.


    "Fine. Since I''ll need to leave tomorrow, I''ll at least let you have decent clothes," she muttered, still slightly embarrassed.


    She handed me a proper suit, which made my eyes light up. I''d seen this kind of clothing on the servants in the hallway.


    After I put the clothes on, she coughed awkwardly, satisfaction evident on her face. With the proper clothes, Lucy noticed my rather small frame, and the suit clung to my body, highlighting my lean physique. It only enhanced the otherworldly beauty of my face.


    She gulped and shook her head, trying to focus on something else. We walked down the hallway again, but this time no one was around since it was already night.


    We returned to her room, which was incredibly luxurious. She collapsed onto her bed and pulled me into an embrace, almost as if she wanted to combine our bodies together.


    A bit used to her aggressive hugs by now, I didn''t pull away. Hours passed, and eventually, her maids prepared her dinner. The delicious aroma filled the air, and I smiled, satisfied. I reluctantly left her embrace, and she sighed a bit, clearly annoyed, but she let go.


    The same maids from earlier were now shocked, pinching each other''s cheeks. The boy they had seen yesterday was no longer wearing a maid''s outfit, and his charm had increased tenfold, just by changing his clothes.


    Lucy sighed at their stares and gestured for them to leave. She smiled as she fed me some of the food. Hours passed as we ate, comforting each other with simple conversation.


    Slowly, we both fell asleep in each other''s embrace. Morning crept in, and I stirred, remembering that she had said she wouldn''t be available for the next few days.


    I smiled, not disheartened, but determined. I glanced at the book she had given me and began to study it. It didn''t take long before I could easily cast all the spells in the book.


    I first tried casting Fireball and then tried to manifest Water with my hands. I noticed the difference¡ªwithout a staff, my casting was much faster, but with a staff, the spell was more than double as strong, even though it was just an ordinary one.


    I played with the water for a while, but soon got bored. The next thing I decided to try was manifesting a barrier. I followed the instructions in the book and immediately felt my body become coated by a shield. However, it was weak. I punched myself, and the barrier shattered easily, though it did reduce the impact of the blow.


    Determined, I added another layer to the barrier. Then two... three... four... five layers. Finally, when I punched myself again, I barely felt it.


    Satisfied, I moved on to another spell: Wind Blade. It took me some time to comprehend it, but I eventually succeeded. I cast the spell, and the wind sliced through the desk like butter.


    My face faltered as worry crept in. Despite my success, I couldn''t help but feel concerned. I wanted to fix it, but I knew it wasn''t something I could change right now.


    Not wanting to destroy anything else, I left the room. As usual, people were staring at me, but now there was a hint of pride in their gazes since I wasn''t wearing maid clothing anymore.


    I walked through the garden and saw someone with gray eyes and golden hair¡ªsomeone who looked like Lucy, though her beauty was truly unprecedented.


    Even goddesses would pale in comparison to her. She looked at me, surprise flashing in her eyes at my charm. Having lived a long time, she had mostly seen handsome men, but they were always rough, tall knights. The boy in front of her was different¡ªhis beauty almost made him appear more cute than handsome.


    The more she looked, the more she thought he couldn''t be older than 14.


    Noticing her gaze, I smiled politely and gave a bow as I passed through the beautiful garden filled with flowers and grass.


    She smiled kindly and didn''t show any hostility. As I came closer, I spoke, bowing my head in respect.


    "Are you perhaps Lucy''s sister? I''m her servant, you could say." My tone was a little awkward, but it only seemed to add to my charm.


    She chuckled, surprised that she didn''t know me and decided to play along. "Yes, I am indeed Lucy''s sister. What is it you need?"


    I nodded, scratching my head. "Perhaps you know where Majesty went?"


    She nodded, amusement in her eyes. "She''s been tasked by the Queen to do something."


    I nodded, unaware that the Queen was standing right in front of me, ready to leave.


    At that moment, the book Lucy had given me fell from my waist, where I had been hiding it. I quickly grabbed it, intending to leave, but then I heard her voice.


    "You''re a mage, huh? That''s rare for a boy," she said with amusement and curiosity in her voice. "How about I teach you some spells?"


    I froze, my heart skipping a beat. This was an opportunity I couldn''t pass up.

 Chapter 9: Deep in the Forest

    Chapter 9 - Deep in the Forest


    After finishing my meal, I smiled and bid the maids farewell.


    With nothing else to do, a surge of restlessness stirred within me. I decided it was time to test my strength¡ªreally test it. Slipping out of the mansion unnoticed, I stepped into the sunlight and took a deep breath.


    Something was different. My body felt lighter, stronger... faster.


    Without much effort, I leapt upward¡ªand nearly flew. I soared over the outer wall in a single bound, landing with a roll in the open field beyond. The sheer height of that jump made my heart race. I wasn''t just stronger¡ªI was evolving.


    Before me stood a vast forest, thick with trees and untamed life. It was the perfect place to train without drawing attention. Without hesitation, I dashed forward, weaving between trees, pushing my speed to the limit. My feet barely touched the ground.


    But caution kicked in. I couldn''t afford to be reckless. Slowing down, I raised a barrier around my body¡ªthen another. Layer after layer, I reinforced them, carefully fusing them together with mana. I had no idea how many I could stack, but I felt nearly invincible.


    Still, I knew there were limits. If I kept adding barriers without pause, I''d run out of mana too fast. The power was exhilarating, but dangerous.


    I delved deeper into the forest, marking trees as I went to avoid getting lost. The further I ran, the denser the foliage became. That''s when I saw it.


    A massive bear, nearly the size of a carriage, stood ahead, its coarse fur bristling. Its sheer presence radiated menace. The beast had to be as strong as a mid-level 2-star.


    It locked eyes with me and roared¡ªan earth-shaking sound that echoed through the forest. I''d clearly invaded its territory.


    With a single swipe of its paw, a tree was reduced to splinters. My pulse quickened.


    I activated my Exorcist form. The power surged through me, draining mana rapidly, but I needed it. I had only around seven minutes before I ran dry.


    I cast a fireball. The explosion struck the bear head-on, and to my surprise, it staggered back, injured¡ªbut not dead.


    It lunged at me with brutal fury, claws slicing the air. I dodged, weaving around its attacks. But then¡ªit roared again. Louder. More savage.


    A skill.


    Fear gripped me. My knees buckled under the pressure of its killing intent.


    Then¡ªboom.


    Its claw slammed into my side, hurling me through the air. I crashed into a tree, the impact cracking its trunk. Blood sprayed from my mouth. My clothes were shredded, and deep gashes opened across my torso.


    If it weren''t for my layered barriers, I''d be dead.


    I coughed violently, crimson dripping from my lips. My vision blurred. The wound on my side throbbed painfully, and my head spun from the crash.


    That skill... That single strike proved it. This bear wasn''t just a 2-star¡ªit was a mid-level monster.


    I couldn''t win.


    Desperation flooded my thoughts. I turned, scanning my surroundings through hazy eyes. There¡ªmy tree markings. I still had a path back.


    I conjured a wall of energy, buying a few seconds. The bear slammed into it, roaring in frustration.


    That was my cue.


    I ran.


    Every step sent waves of pain through my body. I could feel blood soaking my clothes. My mana was dropping fast. I deactivated my Exorcist form to conserve what little energy remained.


    The bear didn''t stop. I could hear it crashing through the trees, getting closer and closer. I threw spells blindly behind me, hoping to slow it down. Small explosions echoed in the distance, but they barely hindered it.


    Then¡ªanother problem.


    Wolves.


    A pack of them emerged from the right, snarling and circling. Seven or eight, at least. Their eyes gleamed with hunger, jaws dripping with saliva. My wounds attracted them like moths to a flame.


    I was cornered. The bear was behind me. The wolves were flanking.


    I gritted my teeth, blood trailing from my lips. My mind screamed for a solution. I couldn''t die here.


    Think.


    Speed.


    Wind.


    I felt the breeze brushing against my skin. A sudden thought sparked¡ªwhat if I could use the wind? Not just to push, but to propel. To fuse it into my very being.


    Channeling mana, I shaped the wind around my body and pushed.


    First attempt¡ªfailure.


    Second¡ªanother failure.


    The bear''s breath was now on my neck. The wolves began to pounce.


    Third attempt¡ªdo or die.


    I closed my eyes. Everything slowed. I focused. No panic. No pain.


    Just wind.


    Mana surged through my limbs. The wind roared to life around me.


    Boom.


    I shot forward like an arrow, the ground tearing beneath my feet from the sudden burst of speed. I broke through the pack of wolves and left the bear behind, its roar fading into the distance.


    But it wasn''t over.


    The wolves still chased me, relentless. My speed began to fade, the wind spell flickering.


    Then I saw it¡ªthe back wall of the mansion.


    I had one shot left.


    With the last of my strength, I activated my Exorcist form again and combined it with the wind spell.


    Mana crackled violently through my body.


    I leapt.


    The air screamed around me as I soared over the wall. My body hit the ground hard¡ªrolling, tumbling, pain everywhere. I crashed into the garden.


    My vision dimmed. Everything blurred.


    Standing above me was a girl with raven-black hair that cascaded over her shoulders. Her icy-blue eyes widened in horror.


    "Sophia..."


    She rushed to my side, panic flooding her face. If her sister saw me like this... she might burn the entire forest down in rage.


    Without hesitation, Sophia scooped me into her arms and vanished with a flash of light.


    She appeared in front of a 5-star healer, his expression darkening the moment he saw me. He didn''t hesitate. His hands lit up, radiating healing light.


    "The wounds are severe," he muttered grimly. "And his mana... it''s nearly gone."


    My mind faded into unconsciousness as warmth spread through my chest.


    i really survive...

 Chapter 11: Lucy Worries

    Chapter 11 - Lucy Worries


    Sophia bit her fingers, frustration etched into her delicate features. Her usual bright and excitable expression, like a blooming flower under the sun, had withered into worry.


    Princess Lucy, who silently riding a carriage eyes scanning the Envelope and opening it looking at the letter in her hands.


    The paper contained devastating news¡ªAkashi had been found severely injured, teetering on the edge of death, and now lay unconscious in a coma.


    Lucy''s hands trembled as she gripped the paper tighter, crumpling it under the pressure of her fury and fear. She had fulfilled all her duties assigned by the Queen, had played her role perfectly,


    She wasted no time.


    With a flash of blue light and a storm of energy, Lucy spammed teleportation spells, warping through space over and over until¡ªbarely thirty minutes later¡ªshe arrived at the scene. Her breath was ragged, her mana thinned, but her concern overrode her exhaustion. As the bright glow of her final teleportation faded, she appeared in a quiet, sun-drenched room where Sophia and a healer stood solemnly near a bed.


    Her eyes fell on Akashi''s unconscious form, and her fury surged like a tempest.


    A crack shattered through the window glass, spiderwebbing outward from its center.


    Sophia stepped forward, raising her voice gently. "Big sis... I know he''s important to you, but please, calm down. You''re not helping anyone like this."


    Lucy took a long breath, her chest rising and falling as she struggled to control the storm within. Her hands clenched at her sides, her fingers twitching with restrained magic. Finally, she spoke, her tone low and tight. "What happened to him?"


    Sophia sighed, shaking her head helplessly. "I found him in the garden... It looks like he was attacked by a beast¡ªprobably a bear. There were large claw marks, and he had collapsed before anyone could find him."


    Lucy stepped closer, her expression softening slightly as she reached out and placed her hand over his chest. A soft golden glow enveloped her fingers as she channeled a healing spell, amplifying the efforts of the healer beside her. The wounds began to mend faster, and the tightness in his face loosened just a little. But something was off.


    Her eyes widened as she examined his mana core. It was utterly depleted¡ªdrained dry like a desert well. And yet... slowly, ever so slowly, traces of mana were beginning to reappear.


    Her mouth parted in silent astonishment. This... when did he break through to 2-Star? She whispered the question only to herself, keeping it hidden from Sophia. Her thoughts raced.


    If she realizes how fast he''s growing... she might become interested in him. She might even try to compete with me for his affection.


    That thought made Lucy''s stomach twist uncomfortably.


    Without another word, she lifted Akashi carefully into her arms and turned toward Sophia. "I''ll take him to my room. Don''t follow. Don''t disturb me."


    Sophia could only nod, watching in silence as Lucy vanished in another burst of teleportation magic.


    The spell strain was becoming obvious. Lucy staggered slightly as she landed in her room, her face pale, sweat beading her forehead. Even with her vast mana reserves, spamming teleportation spells for thirty straight minutes had taken its toll.


    She laid Akashi gently on her bed, then sat beside him, placing both hands over his chest. As his Master, she could scan his internal condition in full detail. What she saw left her breathless.


    Within just three days, he had learned a high-level spell¡ªnot yet fully complete, but still remarkable. Even more shocking, he had already mastered every spell she''d given him. Her perception of him soared with every passing second.


    How is he advancing so quickly?


    Her anger faded into a quiet frustration as she rubbed her temples. She needed answers. But for now, he needed rest.


    Days passed.


    One day... two days... three days.


    During that time, Lucy never left his side. Despite only knowing him for a week, she had grown deeply attached to him. She didn''t understand why, but his story, his despair, his smile¡ªit all tugged at her heart in ways no one else ever had.


    For the first time, she didn''t feel so alone.


    She, too, had burdens. People expected her to be perfect, to be a pawn in royal games. When others approached her, it was either for her beauty, her status, or her wealth. She could always see it in their eyes¡ªthat calculating glint.


    But not with Akashi.


    He was different. He was genuine. And now, seeing him lying there¡ªdefenseless, fragile¡ªmade something protective stir deep within her.


    She reached out and held his hand tightly. I won''t let anyone take you from me, she thought.


    Even now, unconscious, his charm was overwhelming. His delicate features were beautiful, almost too much to be real. His skin was smooth and unblemished, his eyes¡ªwhen open¡ªalways seemed to shine with purity. She often found herself tempted... but guilt held her back.


    That night, she awoke with a jolt.


    Akashi was crying.


    Tears streamed silently down his face, and a storm of emotions swirled in his expression. Without hesitation, Lucy wrapped her arms around him, molding her soft body against his. She whispered softly into his ear, her voice like a warm melody.


    "Everything will be alright," she murmured, tightening her hold.


    Eventually, his breathing calmed. He slipped back into a peaceful sleep in her arms.


    By morning, his eyes slowly opened. Tiredness painted dark lines beneath them, but his charm still radiated effortlessly. When he saw her, a small smile played on his lips.


    "Can I rest a little more, Lucy?" His voice was soft, with a quiet sadness and determination laced within.


    She smiled back, brushing his hair aside and patting his head gently. "You can rest as much as you want. But tommorow, you''re telling me everything. No hiding."


    Her voice was firm, but caring. He nodded, and they embraced again. He fell asleep once more, comforted by her warmth.


    The next morning, he wriggled out of her embrace. As he stood and stretched, he felt it¡ªhis mana core had strengthened. He was officially a 2-Star now.


    Excitement filled his chest, but also a new resolve.


    Lucy stirred, her graceful form basked in golden morning light. The curves of her body were silhouetted by the sun as she opened her eyes.


    "If you try to leave without explaining everything..." she whispered with a dangerous edge in her voice, "I''ll cut off your limbs and keep you here forever."


    Her smile was sweet, but her eyes held no jest.

 Chapter 16: Banquet (4) {Difference}

    Chapter 16 - Banquet (4) {Difference}


    As the spider slowly stirred awake, still groggy from its interrupted evolution, it was at its weakest. A rare chance, but also a dangerous one. Without hesitation, I grabbed Alisa''s small, delicate body and slung her gently over my shoulder.


    I ran. And kept running.


    The light at the end of the cave seemed both close and impossibly far. Behind me, Alisa, regaining a shred of her strength, raised her hand and conjured a massive dark orb¡ªalmost the size of a Boulder.


    It shot forward like a meteor, colliding with a crumbling ancient rock formation. The spider dodged it effortlessly, but the blast disrupted its path, buying us precious seconds. Without it, we''d have been devoured. No doubt.


    Panting, I forcefully deactivated my Exorcist form. The exhaustion was overwhelming, threatening to collapse me on the spot. If I didn''t cancel it now, I''d be unconscious before we made it out.


    Alisa was in no better shape. Her breathing was shallow, her skin pale. She had used every drop of her remaining strength to help us escape. Still, she managed to smile weakly and hugged my neck from behind, whispering with gratitude.


    "Thank you."


    I only nodded, too focused on running to respond. But deep down, her gesture struck something inside me.


    She smiled bitterly, seeing my exhausted face. Would anyone else? she thought. Would a mere 2-star risk his life for someone like me... in front of a near-7-star beast?


    Her usual emotionless expression cracked ever so slightly with guilt.


    Eventually, we returned. Alisa, not wanting to cause a commotion at the banquet, sent a mental transmission.


    Because of our proximity, it reached quickly. Within moments, two figures materialized before us¡ªLorraine and Lucy.


    As my legs gave out, I collapsed straight into Lucy''s arms. Lorraine caught Alisa before she could hit the ground. Their expressions darkened instantly.


    Lorraine, a seasoned 7-star, would not let this offense slide. No one endangered her daughter and walked away unscathed.


    Between gasps for breath, I explained the bare essentials¡ªan ambush, a monstrous spider, and a narrow escape. I left out the two high-tier spells and the legendary one I''d obtained. No need to invite suspicion or trouble.


    The two women exchanged glances, sharp and knowing. If someone sent a spider of that caliber it''s impossible since the Akashi says True it was evolving which means it was not planned and the demons gotten eaten i guess


    word had already started spreading: a new human with a bright yellow talent had emerged.


    And they felt threatened.


    Alisa, thoroughly drained, drifted into unconsciousness in her mother''s arms. Lorraine vanished for a moment, reappearing in Alisa''s room and tucking her gently into bed.


    When she returned, her tied-up hair fell freely down her back, suddenly glowing a fierce, burning red. She activated a skill silently, power radiating off her in waves


    And manifest a Burning sword in her hands


    Lucy, meanwhile, cast a subtle spell. Her eyes turned sharp and calculating.


    She turned to me. "Wanna come along?"


    I blinked. "Wait, what?"


    Before I could process it, she grabbed the back of my clothes and erected a barrier around me. "To protect your skin," she said casually.


    A moment later, we were back at the spider''s cave.


    She placed me in a safe zone and cast a second barrier around me, just in case. And then, all hell broke loose.


    The cave shook with deafening roars. Skills clashed in the air, spells exploded like fireworks. From my protected perch, I watched in awe.


    This... Really the World is really Vast


    Their strength was beyond my comprehension¡ªlike Heaven and Earth, with me buried miles beneath the dirt.


    The battle raged on for hours. Half the forest was obliterated in the crossfire. The ground was scorched, trees erased, and not a single trace of the spider remained. Without the barrier, I would''ve been reduced to ash.


    Even Lucy and Lorraine, breathing heavily, had to take a moment to recover. Lucy, as a support mage, stayed mostly behind, while Lorraine did the heavy lifting¡ªwielding her wrath like a divine blade.


    Staring at the devastation, my heart pounded.


    But instead of discouragement, I felt a strange fire light up inside me.


    I want to become stronger.


    Lorraine turned and gently patted my shoulder. "Kid," she said softly, "thank you for saving my daughter. Tell me... is there anything you wish for?"


    Lucy didn''t seem surprised. She simply waited for my answer with a faint smile.


    I hesitated, then asked, "Is there anything that could accelerate my growth?"


    Lorraine nodded. "Our kingdom is rich with resources. I''ll grant you a Divine Fruit."


    Lucy bit her lip slightly. She didn''t say anything, but I noticed the jealousy. This fruit¡ªwhatever it was¡ªwas rare. Very rare.


    Even Lucy, a princess, had only received it once in her life.


    "It will permanently double your mana capacity," Lorraine explained. "And you can take two bites."


    She continued, "Not only that, but it also speeds up your breakthroughs¡ªby more than double, at least."


    My eyes widened. I bowed in respect, overwhelmed by her generosity.


    She smiled again and gently ruffled my hair. "Don''t worry. My daughter''s life is worth far more than a fruit."


    Before leaving, Lucy cast a legendary-tier healing spell. A soothing green light covered the ruined battlefield, restoring much of the forest. She wobbled slightly, clearly drained.


    Soon after, we returned to the banquet grounds. Only a few guests remained, the festivities winding down.


    Lorraine stepped forward and gave a short speech, thanking everyone, before politely dismissing the attendees.


    When only we were left, she approached me again, holding a small fruit in her hand. It was no bigger than my pinky, shaped like a tiny banana, but it glowed with a brilliant golden hue.


    "This is it," she said with a gentle smile.


    Her hair was tied up again, her demeanor calm. A far cry from the blazing goddess I had witnessed in battle.


    She suddenly hesitated, then asked, her voice awkward but sincere, "Are you perhaps... into that outfit?"


    There was no mockery in her tone¡ªjust curiosity. She had probably wanted to ask for a while but didn''t want to embarrass me publicly.


    My eye twitched, and I glanced at Lucy, silently pleading for help. She said nothing¡ªbut the look on her face told me everything.


    Say it.


    Humiliated, I nodded, my face flushing bright red.


    Lorraine chuckled awkwardly, clearly not expecting that. "So you''re into that, huh? No judgment from me."


    Lucy turned away, her shoulders shaking as she tried not to laugh.


    Trying to escape the moment, I asked, "Where''s Alisa''s room? I should stay with her for a while, right?"

 Chapter 19: Leaving

    Chapter 19 - Leaving


    Alisa had grown noticeably closer to Akashi over the past few days. The more she talked with him, the more she seemed to like him. There was a gentleness in her tone when she spoke to him now, and her eyes lingered a bit longer whenever he smiled.


    We ate dinner slowly, sitting beside each other. I fed her piece by piece, and it felt oddly familiar¡ªalmost like how Lucy used to feed me.


    "So this is how Lucy felt..." I thought, glancing at Alisa. Honestly, she was adorable. I couldn''t help myself¡ªI began to gently play with her cheeks.


    She didn''t resist, smiling faintly. Her expression remained unreadable, but she clearly didn''t dislike the attention. In fact, she leaned into it slightly, as if enjoying the moment. But after a while, as my fingers continued squishing her cheeks, her face turned bright red, and she suddenly slapped my hands away.


    "Ow," I said, blinking in surprise. Then I saw her flushed cheeks and burst out laughing.


    That only made it worse. She pouted, then leaned forward and bit my arm¡ªnot hard, but enough to make me flinch.


    "That tickled," I said with a grin, laughing even more.


    Though her expression remained mostly blank, there was a subtle, smug glint in her eyes before she turned away, satisfied with her revenge.


    Night crept in slowly, and with it came the realization that I''d have to leave the next morning. Lucy was scheduled to pick me up at sunrise. I tried to ignore the looming farewell, but Irish¡ªwho''d been unusually clingy all day¡ªclung to me even tighter as bedtime came around.


    I smiled and gently whispered to her, "Don''t worry. I''ll come back next month."


    She didn''t reply. She just closed her eyes and pretended to be asleep. But I saw it¡ªthe faintest smile curling at the corner of her lips. It made me feel strangely relieved.


    The Next Morning


    She was still glued to my chest, nuzzling herself into my shirt like a stubborn kitten refusing to let go.


    That was when the door creaked open.


    Lucy and Lorraine stepped inside.


    "Oh my," Lorraine said with a soft chuckle, her voice laced with playful sarcasm.


    Lucy didn''t say a word. Her face was unreadable, and her eyes shifted to Alisa with a hint of disapproval. Silently, she walked over and tried to pull Alisa off my chest.


    Alisa, now half-awake, blinked at Lucy. When she recognized her, she instantly glared and clung to me even tighter.


    "Alisa..." I said gently, my eye twitching from the awkwardness, "I have to go. I promise I''ll come back next month."


    Still, she refused to let go.


    Lorraine, sensing her daughter''s growing stubbornness, sighed and spoke in a firm tone, "Alisa. Let him go."


    After a long pause, she finally released me. But to everyone''s surprise... she began to cry. Her shoulders trembled as soft sobs escaped her lips.


    "Next month... visit quickly, okay?" she said, her voice quivering between sobs.


    Lucy, despite her usual stoicism, was visibly taken aback. She didn''t say anything, though. It wasn''t that she was surprised by their growing closeness¡ªno, she had seen it coming¡ªbut perhaps she hadn''t expected such an emotional goodbye.


    As she looked at me, she noticed that my clothes had already changed. I was now dressed in a formal suit, clearly prepared for travel.


    Lucy sighed softly and reached for the back of my shirt like someone holding onto a stray pet. "Wanna join the Queen''s Selection Tournament?"


    Before I could respond, the world spun. She had already teleported us.


    Back in castle, Lorraine hugged Alisa tightly, whispering comforting words. The girl''s sobs began to soften.


    Now sitting beside Lucy in a carriage, I blinked to reorient myself. "Right. So... whoever wins the competition becomes Queen?"


    She shook her head. "No. This is just the first competition. There are five each year. We''ll be competing in all of them."


    She explained calmly, "Each one represents something. This first one is about Loyalty¡ªand how strong the Queen''s chosen Servant is."


    I leaned back. "So it''s not just about brute force?"


    "Correct," she nodded. "The second is Leadership. Each candidate will command 5,000 soldiers and lead them into demon territory."


    "Whoever conquers the most territory with the fewest casualties wins," she added. "As for the third and beyond... I don''t really know the exact details."


    I smiled bitterly. "I suppose I''ll join, if it helps."


    She nodded without surprise. "Good. When should we head over?"


    I yawned, rubbing my eyes. "Can we eat first? I''m starving."


    She smiled. "Sure."


    She halted the carriage and directed it to a luxurious restaurant within the heart of the kingdom. As we stepped in, every gaze turned to us. The chatter died down.


    Lucy sighed, clearly annoyed by the attention, and guided us to a secluded corner.


    Just as we were about to order, two burly men approached our table. Both were bald, muscular, and covered in tattoos.


    Lucy narrowed her eyes. The disgust was evident in her gaze.


    The man closest to us slammed his palm on the table and leaned in toward Lucy, grinning like an idiot. "How about you date a real man for once?" His voice was deep¡ªand immediately irritating.


    They were likely 3-Star level warriors, and with Lucy concealing her aura and me appearing only at 2-Star, they must''ve assumed we were easy prey.


    Lucy''s hands twitched. She was clearly trying hard not to lose control. If she exploded, this entire place would turn to rubble.


    I could''ve easily handled them, but at that moment, just beating them felt... unsatisfying.


    "Please don''t interrupt us," Lucy said, her voice cold and razor-sharp.


    The first man smirked and reached for her neck.


    Then it happened.


    A sharp burst of mana erupted from Lucy.


    The man''s hand was severed instantly. Before the second man could even draw his sword, his head hit the floor with a dull thud. The first man, now clutching his bleeding stump, collapsed in horror as Lucy slowly stepped forward.


    Everyone froze.


    She smiled, but there was nothing kind in it. "I needed to vent anyway," she said softly.


    She didn''t stop there. Each of the first man''s limbs was sliced clean off in an instant. The restaurant filled with invisible pressure. No one dared to move, let alone scream.


    She raised her hand, casting a spell. The blood, limbs, and bodies vanished as if they were never there.


    The room was spotless once again. Silent. Tense.


    Lucy turned back to me calmly.


    I shivered.


    She was scary honestly.


    I sighed. Around us, not a single soul dared to meet our gaze.


    After witnessing a 3-Star get dismantled like a doll, no one was foolish enough to interrupt our meal again.

 Chapter 24: Danger (Final)

    Chapter 24 - Danger (Final)


    Despite the chaos, the people did not falter. They continued fighting, pushing back against the overwhelming tide of death. But the main force had been fractured¡ªat least 500 soldiers had switched sides in desperation or confusion.


    They tried to repel the unexpected horde of zombies, but it was too late. The closest section of the wall had already been breached. Screams echoed in the distance. Blood painted the streets.


    The houses closest to the breach had become slaughterhouses, soaked in crimson. But those who had defected, those who now stood with the invaders, noticed something strange amidst the carnage.


    Not a single child had been harmed.


    Adults and teenagers were the primary victims¡ªlimbs torn, bodies shattered, lives ended in horrific ways. But the children... they remained untouched, as if an unspoken law had been cast over them. Something intentional. Something sorrowful.


    Those who had switched sides hesitated. For the first time, doubt flickered in their eyes.


    And then, the defensive lines were formed. Three barriers were quickly reinforced as the defenders rallied, holding the front.


    At the center of it all stood the Mad Mage¡ªElanora.


    Her silver hair flowed like moonlight in the darkness, and her eyes glowed with a deep, sorrowful madness. She stood on a broken tower, surrounded by swirling mana and the stench of death. Her lips curled into a bittersweet smile as she controlled the undead with effortless precision. Around her, the tortured screams of retired knights echoed through the night.


    These were the same knights responsible for her daughter''s death.


    But she didn''t grant them mercy through death. No, she had something far crueler in store.


    Their limbs were severed, then healed. Then severed again. The cycle continued endlessly¡ªflesh torn, bones shattered, wounds sealed, only to be broken once more.


    Their minds cracked. Sanity dripped away like blood from a wound.


    She smiled softly and whispered to the cold night air, "Do you hear it, my sweet daughter? Their screams... their pain. It''s too bad your father and I are the only ones left to hear it."


    As the words left her lips, a sudden surge of mana exploded on the battlefield.The one with 6 Star Peak Layer roared into the heavens and made a breakthrough¡ªachieving the power of a 7-Star Knight.


    Gasps rippled through the ranks. His body burned with divine energy, silver light shattering the shadows that clung to the field.


    Elizabeth, her Raven hair drenched in sweat and blood, gritted her teeth and unleashed a powerful high-level spell. A wave of radiant Spell burst from her hands, obliterating hordes of zombies in a single flash.


    Inspired by her, the Queen''s summoned 1000 Knights held the line. Though they were outnumbered, they were unshakable¡ªtrue steel in human form.


    The kingdom''s flanks had been breached, yes¡ªbut not destroyed. Not yet.


    I could barely breathe. My mana was nearly depleted. I had been controlling over 200 swords, casting spells nonstop for what felt like an eternity. My vision blurred. My legs trembled.


    Everyone around me was drained. Still, we stood. We endured.


    Two hours passed. The night grew darker, heavier. The stench of blood soaked into the earth. The sky wept.


    But then¡ªmusic.


    A song, clear and beautiful, drifted across the battlefield. It came from the distant grasslands¡ªwhere ten thousand knights and mages now stood, their arrival cloaked in silence until now.


    The melody resonated through our hearts.


    And something incredible happened.


    Everyone felt stronger. Not just inspired¡ªtruly stronger. Our mana surged. Our fatigue vanished. The zombies grew sluggish, weaker, as if their strings had been cut.


    At the front of the newcomers stood a woman with cascading red hair and mesmerizing amber eyes. Her robe shimmered with divine runes, each glowing softly like stars in the night. Her smile was gentle, playful, and impossibly beautiful¡ªher very presence as breathtaking as Evelyn''s, who was known as one of the most stunning women in the world.


    The woman spoke, her voice like a lullaby wrapped in velvet. "You really had it rough, didn''t you?"


    Evelyn paused mid-battle, her eyes lighting up with warmth. "Took you long enough."


    The tides of battle shifted.


    The Sword Kingdom''s elite had arrived.


    With precise coordination and terrifying power, they tore through the undead ranks. The red-haired woman and Evelyn fought side by side¡ªlike sisters in arms. In truth, they were best friends, bonded by countless battles fought together in years long past.


    As the red-haired mage sang once more, her voice became a weapon. Every note struck the zombies like a hammer to stone. Their bodies twisted, then crumbled into ash. Her presence alone was that of a 7-Star Mage.


    The Mad Mage paused. Her lips parted slightly, her expression unreadable. A bitter smile tugged at her mouth.


    She had expected all of this¡ªthe retaliation, the strength of the Kingdom, the arrival of powerful allies. She had accounted for it all.


    She had achieved her revenge. The knights who failed her daughter had been broken. The kingdom had suffered.


    And yet... it felt empty.


    So devastatingly empty.


    As the final notes of the melody drifted across the field, Elanora froze. Her eyes, glowing with fading power, widened.


    In that moment, she saw them.


    Her husband. Her daughter. Their home¡ªwarm, filled with laughter and life.


    They smiled at her. They opened their arms. And she... smiled back.


    Tears traced down her pale cheeks.


    A burden she had carried for so long¡ªfinally lifted.


    She whispered, voice trembling, "Thank you..."


    Aira, the red-haired songstress, looked at her with deep pity. She had felt Elanora''s pain in her song¡ªhad absorbed it. She had never felt sadness like this before. It was incredibly. Heavy. It had been building for years.


    And now...she was in peace.


    Elanora''s head fell from her shoulders, cleanly severed.


    Silence followed.


    Rain began to fall softly from the sky, soaking into the broken kingdom.


    No one cheered. No one moved.


    They only stood still, couldn''t do anything all of them are mix with emotions

 Chapter 28: The Song Kingdom (Izumi Spell?)

    Chapter 28 - The Song Kingdom (Izumi Spell?)


    The rhythmic clatter of wheels against the cobblestone path echoed softly within the luxurious carriage. Velvet cushions lined the seats, and the faint scent of perfume hung in the air. Lucy had invited Izumi to join us on this ride Since she would lived on the mansion when we cameback


    Izumi had accepted with a polite smile, sliding gracefully into the seat across from us. Now, with Lucy seated beside me and Izumi in front, the carriage gently swayed as it carried us toward the Queen''s mansion.


    Despite the calm setting, I couldn''t relax. My senses stayed sharp, my eyes flicking between the two girls. I remained on guard, silently watching, listening.


    Lucy leaned in ever so slightly, her tone friendly but probing. "So, Izumi... where do you live? What''s your background?"


    Izumi''s hands rested delicately on her lap, her posture composed and unthreatening. Her voice, soft and airy, matched her delicate appearance. "I grew up alone. Orphaned as a child. I''ve been living on the streets ever since... earning money through street performances." She paused, a wistful smile on her lips. "Then... I awakened something inside me."


    Lucy blinked slowly, absorbing every word. "A power?" she asked, intrigued.


    Izumi nodded. "Yes. Something strange, something I still don''t fully understand."


    Lucy seemed to believe her¡ªor at least she didn''t show doubt. But me? I wasn''t buying it. Her story was too clean, too rehearsed. Something about her didn''t add up.


    Still, I forced a slight nod and pretended to listen, wearing a mask of passive interest.


    Izumi smiled gently, and for a moment, she looked like an innocent child¡ªlike someone who had just been accepted into a warm orphanage after years of loneliness. It was disarming, almost heartbreaking... but that made me even more suspicious. No one who lived on the streets their entire life would smile like that. Not unless they were hiding something behind that smile.


    The rest of the ride passed in relative silence, interrupted only by the clatter of wheels and the occasional creak of the carriage frame. Finally, we arrived at our destination¡ªthe Song mansion.


    As always, when I stepped out, eyes immediately turned toward me. Their stares were sharp, hungry, almost predatory, as though I were some exotic animal on display. I''d grown used to it by now, even while still wearing the ridiculously frilly maid outfit. It no longer embarrassed me¡ªit had become a shield, a distraction, something to lower others'' guards.


    The mansion was grand, similar in architecture to Lucy''s own estate. In the center of the main hall stood a long banquet table adorned with silverware and brimming with delicacies¡ªroasted meats, jewel-colored desserts, fruits glistening with syrup. It looked like a feast pulled straight from the dreams of the starving.


    Lucy wasted no time. She approached the Queen and Princess with practiced elegance, securing their support with soft diplomacy and quiet confidence. It seemed everything was going smoothly.


    And yet... I couldn''t eat. My appetite had vanished, smothered by the tension that clung to my thoughts. I kept my eyes subtly on Izumi, who wandered nearby with that same gentle smile. Despite her beauty¡ªethereal and doll-like¡ªno one seemed to notice her. Not even a passing glance.


    It was like she didn''t exist.


    No noble tried to speak to her. No servants asked her to move. No guard even acknowledged her presence.


    That was what made it eerie. It was as if she were a ghost, a phantom gliding through the room. That unsettling thought dug deep into my mind. Who was she really?


    Then, for a brief moment, someone passed between us, blocking my view. When the crowd parted again, our eyes met.


    She was looking directly at me.


    Time seemed to freeze.


    Though a blindfold still covered her eyes, I felt her gaze¡ªpiercing, unblinking, unrelenting. And then she smiled. A slow, delicate smile that sent chills crawling up my spine. It was beautiful, almost haunting, like the kind of smile you''d see in a dream just before waking up in terror.


    Then, reality snapped back.


    A noble¡ªfat, red-faced, and drunk on his own arrogance¡ªtripped and stumbled into me, his wine spilling slightly onto his tunic. He snarled.


    "How dare a lowly slave like you be here?!" he roared, his voice laced with disgust and entitlement.


    I blinked, trying to regain composure. A scene was already forming. The crowd parted, their eyes wide with curiosity and judgment.


    I looked around¡ªIzumi was gone.


    Vanished.


    The unease in my chest deepened. She had disappeared just like that¡ªno sound, no trace. And I knew then: she was leading me somewhere.


    The fat noble raised his arm to strike me, and I instinctively reacted. With a flash of movement, I summoned my staff. I hadn''t intended to hurt him¡ªonly stop him¡ªbut the power surged too fast. Shadow Sentinels formed beside me, slicing through the line between us.


    His scream echoed across the hall.


    Blood splattered. His arm fell to the ground.


    People shrieked. Some gasped. Guards rushed forward, but I didn''t wait.


    I ran.


    I didn''t care about the consequences. I didn''t care about the noble. I only knew she was out there¡ªluring me. She knew something about me, maybe even about my dream. And I had to know what.


    Behind me, chaos erupted. Lucy, the Queen, and the Princess turned to see me bolting out the main entrance at full speed.


    I pushed my mana reserves to their limit, dashing faster than I ever had before. The world blurred around me as I followed the faint traces of Izumi''s energy¡ªdeliberately left behind, like breadcrumbs in a trap.


    Trees rushed past as I plunged into the forest. Shadows grew longer. The light faded.


    Suddenly, the trees ended, and I found myself standing before a wall of pure darkness.


    I tried casting a spell¡ªLesser Fireball. The flame barely flickered, swallowed instantly by the gloom. This wasn''t normal darkness. It was alive. It wanted to keep me blind.


    I hesitated. My instincts screamed at me to call Lucy for help. But before I could act, I stepped forward.


    Click.


    The world spun.


    In an instant, I was falling¡ªhurtling through space from an impossible height. Wind roared past me. My body twisted. I summoned every spell I could: Air Cushion, Exorcist Barrier, Shadow Step. None of it was enough.


    I crashed with a thunderous impact. Pain shot through my side. Not fatal¡ªbut not minor either.


    Groaning, I pulled myself up and looked around.


    I was no longer in the forest.


    Before me stretched a vast labyrinth¡ªdark, ancient, reeking of something wrong. It wasn''t just a maze. It pulsed with a sinister aura. Something inside... something massive, dangerous. I could feel it.


    A 6-star, maybe 7-star creature... or worse.


    Was this where she meant to bring me? Did I walk into her trap? Or was this part of something greater¡ªsomething tied to that creature from my dream?


    My mind spun with questions. There were no answers. Not now.


    All I knew was that I had to survive.


    I summoned my staff again, casting Fireball. The light flickered faintly, enough to reveal jagged stone walls stretching endlessly in all directions.


    And so I stepped forward, into the maze.

 Chapter 29: Prophecy (Izumi Spell)

    Chapter 29 - Prophecy (Izumi Spell)


    i walked in the Maze. guided only by the faint glow of a light I conjured. Darkness pressed from all sides like a suffocating blanket, cold and infinite. The maze around me was maddening¡ªtwisting corridors and


    Countless routes that branched like the veins of a dead god. I didn''t wander aimlessly. I chose a path and kept walking straight, hoping that stubborn resolve would guide me through where logic failed.


    Hours slipped by unnoticed, marked only by the growing ache in my legs and the flickering pulse of my Mana. Then, without warning, calamity struck.


    It didn''t announce its presence. It simply was¡ªan enormous monster, no, something far beyond monstrous. Its sheer size defied reason. It towered above the maze, its limbs wider than the corridors themselves. Its eyes glowed an eerie ocean-blue, vast and deep, as if they held the soul of the sea.


    One of its fingers alone was larger than my entire body.


    My breath caught in my throat.


    I didn''t move.


    I didn''t breathe.


    I became stone.


    The creature didn''t look at me, but I knew¡ªone flinch, one twitch, and I''d be nothing more than blood and memory. I tried to stay still, but my knee betrayed me, nudging ever so slightly against the stone floor. A sharp sting followed. I had skinned it.


    Blood began to drip, warm and vibrant. I didn''t dare cry out. If I moved again¡ªif I even whimpered¡ªI would die.


    I stood there, unmoving, for what felt like an eternity. In reality, perhaps thirty minutes passed. Time was meaningless in that place.


    Eventually, the behemoth left, its steps shaking the maze as it vanished into the deeper dark. I let out a breath I hadn''t realized I was holding. I immediately cast a weak healing spell, closing the wound on my knee, but I didn''t dare use my full Exorcist form. It consumed too much mana¡ªmana I couldn''t afford to waste against beings like that.


    Even if I activated it, I wouldn''t stand a chance.


    I resumed walking, every step now more cautious, my heartbeat pounding like a war drum in my chest.


    The walls around me were massive¡ªancient structures etched with symbols I couldn''t read. As I brushed my hand against one of them, I froze.


    Something wet.


    A tongue.


    A monstrous tongue slithered from the stone, coiling tightly around my wrist like a serpent. I recoiled instinctively, but the pressure only increased, as if I had triggered it. It wasn''t just gripping¡ªit was pulling, sucking me in like a black hole.


    But I didn''t panic.


    I held my breath and eased my hand, relaxing every muscle. As I suspected, the resistance began to wane. This was no ordinary beast. If I had to guess, it was somewhere between Five to Seven Stars in strength¡ªdangerous beyond compare.


    But every monster here had a weakness. A blind spot. Something.


    As I remained calm, the tongue loosened. I didn''t jerk away. I waited¡ªcounting every heartbeat¡ªuntil it fully released me. Only then did I gently pull my hand back.


    Relief washed over me.


    Then I felt it¡ªhot breath on the back of my neck.


    A cold shiver ran down my spine as a sharp tongue licked my skin.


    Another monster. No¡ªmonsters. Not one, but two.


    I could feel their jagged teeth brushing my neck, pressing ever so slightly into my flesh. The slightest movement, and they would tear through me like paper.


    My heart was screaming, but I kept my body still. It was a miracle I didn''t faint. My face betrayed nothing. I knew¡ªshow weakness, and I die.


    When I tried to move just an inch, the tongue from earlier lashed out once again. My hand¡ªmy actual hand¡ªgot sliced, blood gushing down my arm. But I didn''t cry out. I bit my lip until I tasted iron and stood frozen like a statue, trembling only on the inside.


    Every second felt like a lifetime. I couldn''t think. I couldn''t blink.


    Despair gnawed at my sanity.


    Pain confirmed this wasn''t an illusion. It was all too real.


    Finally, after what felt like hours compressed into minutes, they vanished¡ªleaving me alone, broken, bleeding.


    I collapsed to my knees, suppressing the scream that burned in my throat. My hand throbbed with pain, the wound deep. I activated my Exorcist form briefly, using a low-tier healing spell. It barely worked, but it slowed the bleeding.


    Still, the mana cost of activating Exorcist form stacked with my injuries was immense. My reserves were draining quickly, and I hadn''t even fought yet.


    I stood again and walked.


    One foot in front of the other. Regaining my composure, my breath, my sanity.


    The bleeding slowed after a few hours. That alone gave me hope.


    Hope that I might survive this hell.


    But the maze wasn''t done mocking me.


    After six more grueling hours, I realized I had returned to the same spot where I had first collapsed.


    Back to where the blood dried on the stone.


    Despair tried to rise again, but I crushed it.


    I couldn''t afford to wallow. My understanding of the layout had improved. I adjusted my course. Every corridor, every turn¡ªI memorized them.


    Time passed.


    A day.


    Maybe two.


    And then I saw it.


    An eye.


    It rested atop a velvet pillow enshrined in a shallow altar. A single, pure-red eye that shimmered with sorrowful tears.


    The moment I laid eyes on it, I felt something strange.


    Temptation.


    An overwhelming urge to take it¡ªto place it into my own eye¡ªwelled up within me.


    I fought it. I really did.


    But the longer I stared, the stronger it grew. No ordinary person could resist this pull.


    My body moved on its own. My hand reached out and took it.


    I pressed it into my own eye as if possessed.


    Pain shot through my skull like lightning. I screamed silently, trembling. My vision blurred in that eye. The world slowed.


    And then I saw a note beneath the pillow.


    > Satan Eye


    The eye of a fallen demon. Grants the ability to perceive the world at half its normal speed.


    Side effect: Mana cost increases fourfold during usage.


    I sat there, panting, eye burning, mind racing.


    I was relieved. It wasn''t cursed. Not exactly.


    But it came at a price.


    A steep one.


    Still... the power to see everything in slow motion?


    In a place like this?


    It might just be the edge I needed to survive.


    I stood again, wiping the blood from my cheek, and pressed forward into the unknown maze

 Chapter 30: Prophecy 2 (Izumi Spell)

    Chapter 30 - Prophecy 2 (Izumi Spell)


    I didn''t even try to activate the Satan Eye¡ªmy mana was already dangerously low, and I couldn''t afford to waste even a single drop of it.


    Still, a more primal need began to surface: hunger. Despite being a 2-Star, I could still feel the gnawing ache of starvation. Only those who reached 4-Star and beyond were said to be immune to such mortal cravings.


    My legs dragged beneath me, sore and trembling, but I pushed forward. One step. Then another. The pain in my body felt like tiny knives with each movement, and yet¡ªI endured. I had to.


    That''s when I felt it.


    A new presence.


    It wasn''t just another monster¡ªthis one was fast, unnaturally fast. My instincts screamed louder than any conscious thought. I didn''t hesitate. I activated Satan Eye, slowing time around me just enough to react.


    Even so, it wasn''t enough.


    The creature''s speed still broke through my perception like thunder through silence. In a split second, I summoned the Levitating Technique, flinging myself upward, aiming for the high wall beside me. My battered body scraped against the stone as I flew, barely stabilizing in the air.


    Then I saw it.


    A massive beast, as wide as the road itself, hurtling forward like a living boulder¡ªa force of nature that crushed anything in its path.


    It came closer and closer. If not for the Satan Eye, I would''ve been obliterated. But somehow, by sheer luck¡ªor fate¡ªI survived.


    My mana, however, was draining rapidly. I struggled to keep levitating, my vision flickering with black spots. At last, I managed to reach the top of the wall.


    Just as I landed, the beast brushed past me¡ªtoo close. Far too close.


    A sharp, searing pain shot through my foot. I looked down and realized one of my toes had been sliced clean off.


    I was already bleeding from a gash on my arm, and now this. My body was falling apart.


    But it wasn''t over.


    As I caught my breath, I looked up¡ªonly to see a monstrous vulture, its massive wings blotting out the dim light. Its talons were already descending.


    I flung myself flat against the stone. The vulture''s claws missed me by mere inches, slicing the air where my chest had just been.


    Panting heavily, I realized I had just survived two brushes with death in the span of moments. I could barely move, but I couldn''t afford to stop. The vulture circled above, preparing to dive again.


    I leapt.


    The monster on the ground had moved on, but my body was already broken. I hit the earth hard, pain flaring through every nerve.


    But I didn''t despair.


    Not yet.


    I dragged myself forward, step by agonizing step.


    One more day passed. Or was it two? Time blurred inside this maze. The will to survive began to wither. Every breath felt like it might be the last. I wanted to lie down. To close my eyes.


    But I didn''t.


    I kept walking. Staff in hand. Blood dried on my skin. Mana almost gone. I figured I had an hour¡ªmaybe less¡ªbefore I collapsed.


    Then, in the dark, I saw something.


    Not light.


    A staff.


    Pure white. Radiating a faint glow, even in this oppressive shadow.


    At first, I was cautious. But the Satan Eye revealed no danger. The bleeding had mostly stopped by now, but the damage to my hand and foot was real. I''d need help¡ªeventually.


    I reached for the staff.


    The moment I touched it, something clicked in my chest. It bonded to me instantly, sinking into my soul like it had always belonged there.


    It wasn''t just a staff.


    It was ancient.


    I noticed a note etched into its surface, written in a language I somehow understood.


    ---


    > Lord Staff


    One of the strongest weapons in existence. Capable of shapeshifting into any form the wielder desires. Power amplification: up to 100x upon full mastery.


    Reduces mana cost by 70%.


    ---


    For the first time in what felt like forever, I smiled.


    I conjured a small fireball¡ªbarely a flicker¡ªand watched it dance in my Staff. The mana cost had truly dropped. The staff worked. It would become my sword, my bow, anything I needed.


    Right now, I could only harness 4x amplification, but with training, I''d unlock its full potential.


    Then, without warning, a voice echoed¡ªnot in the air, but inside my heart.


    "kneel."


    Confused, I froze. But something deep within urged me to obey.


    And then I saw it.


    A statue¡ªno, a knight, massive and armored¡ªmoved in front of me. Towering above the walls, it radiated solemn power.


    I knelt, just as the voice instructed.


    The knight, in turn, bowed its head. Paying respect to me.


    And then, just like that, it vanished.


    My mana wasn''t draining as rapidly anymore, and another hour passed. Finally, I saw it¡ªlight at the end of the corridor.


    I ran.


    Despite everything¡ªmy wounds, my exhaustion¡ªI ran.


    What I found wasn''t salvation. It was a prophecy carved into stone:


    A tsunami devouring a kingdom.


    A weeping devil watching it unfold.


    Ruins all around¡ªsymbols I couldn''t understand.


    And standing there, bathed in silver glow, was Izumi.


    She smiled. But it was a bitter, heart-wrenching smile. Her blindfold covered her eyes, yet she seemed to see everything.


    Then she spoke, voice cold and distant:


    > "So you really are the Hero... the one destined to save the world."


    I stood there, silent, bloodied and battered. Her words left a chill in the air.


    > "The Song Kingdom will be consumed," she continued, "by one of the Emotions. To suppress its rise... there are two choices."


    I furrowed my brow, confused.


    > "Emotions? What emotions?"


    Izumi didn''t flinch.


    > "You can either sacrifice half the Song Kingdom, which I can do myself... or..."


    She paused. Her next words hit me like a thunderclap.


    > "Sacrifice someone... the Hero loves dearly."


    I reeled.


    "What? Who? What the hell are you talking about?! What emotions?!"


    Izumi said nothing more. Just stood there, with that bitter smile, as if she already knew what choice I would make.


    And deep in my heart, a storm began to stir.

 Chapter 32: Are you crying? {R18}

    Chapter 32 - Are you crying? {R18}


    I Kept running¡ªbarefoot, breathless, heart pounding¡ªuntil I finally crossed the borders of the Song Kingdom.


    No sooner had I entered than a squad of Knight Mages surrounded me. I froze, startled. Were they... searching for me?


    Not long after, word must have reached Lucy. she looked relieved¡ªbut also furious. Angry. Annoyed. Frustrated.


    They escorted me to her temporary quarters, where she had been staying during her time in the Song Kingdom. My steps slowed as we reached the door. I hesitated, unsure of how she would react after everything.


    When I stepped inside, Lucy was sitting silently on the edge of the bed, her back straight, hands clenched on her lap. The dim light revealed her pale face and the dark circles beneath her eyes.


    I opened my mouth cautiously. "Where... where is Izumi?"


    I couldn''t help but ask. I didn''t think Izumi would leave without a word, not after everything, and especially not that the Song Kingdom is in danger.


    Lucy bit her lower lip.


    Really? That''s what he asks me first? she thought bitterly. After being gone so long?


    Still, she responded¡ªcoldly.


    "She''s in the room next to ours."


    Then she stood up. Her movements were slow, controlled. But I could see it¡ªher weariness. Her pain. Her fury. The eyebags beneath her eyes were harsh and deeply carved, evidence of countless sleepless nights.


    "We''re leaving," she said coolly, her voice devoid of warmth.


    I blinked in surprise.


    I hadn''t expected that reaction. She seemed colder¡ªher once bright eyes now dull and hollow. I stepped forward, wanting to ask her what was wrong, wanting to explain, but she turned away without a word and walked toward the carriage.


    Izumi appeared as well, having heard we were leaving. Apparently, Lucy had decided to let her stay in the mansion.


    The ride back was... painfully awkward. I sat across from Lucy and Izumi, my thoughts a storm of guilt and confusion. There were so many things I wanted to say, so many explanations to give¡ªbut with Izumi there, the silence between us only grew heavier.


    Lucy didn''t speak. Didn''t hug me. Didn''t even glance my way. The only thing I noticed was how tired she looked. How her eyes, once full of life, were now empty. She hadn''t slept. Not for a long time.


    I swallowed the lump in my throat, suppressing the guilt that threatened to choke me.


    Izumi, meanwhile, remained quiet. I didn''t fully trust her¡ªbut she wasn''t a threat. At least, not now. If she hadn''t told me the Song Kingdom was in danger, I might never have made a decision and and the whole kingdom will be gone


    A sacrifice to save the whole, I told myself. But... still. Those were human lives.


    The rest of the journey passed in silence, the weight of it pressing on all sides. I scratched my head helplessly, wondering how I would ever make this up to Lucy.


    Finally, we reached the borders of the Auxiliary Kingdom. An hour later, the carriage pulled up in front of the mansion. It was raining¡ªcold, steady, unforgiving. Night had already fallen.


    Lucy, barely saying a word, gestured for the servants to prepare a room for Izumi. They obeyed without question. Then she turned to me.


    Her gaze was like ice. My spine shivered under it.


    Before I could speak, she grabbed my wrist¡ªher hand cold as frost¡ªand with a blink, she teleported us.


    The world spun for a moment, then I found myself in the mansion''s massive bathtub. Steam rose around us.


    With a snap of her fingers, my clothes vanished.


    I gasped, stunned. "Lucy¡ª!"


    She didn''t answer. She began to wash me in silence. Her hands were cold¡ªunusually rough¡ªrunning along my skin with no hesitation, no shame.


    Her fingers lingered longer than necessary on my most intimate parts, touching me more than expected, and I couldn''t help but respond. My body reacted involuntarily, growing harder under her touch, painfully so.


    But her eyes... were still ice.


    There was no warmth. No teasing. No softness.


    Just silence.


    She didn''t stop. She washed me thoroughly, firmly, as if trying to scrub away more than dirt. Her movements were mechanical, almost punishing.


    My face flushed deeply, both from embarrassment and the strange mix of emotions flooding me¡ªshame, guilt, desire, pain.


    After what felt like an eternity, she didn''t let me dress. Instead, she teleported us again¡ªthis time to our bedroom.


    The rain continued to fall outside, drumming softly against the windows. The cold seeped into my skin.


    I tried to cover myself, especially my lower half, feeling far too exposed. But just as I reached for the blanket, she moved.


    With a flick of her wrist, my arms were pinned above my head¡ªrestrained by invisible force.


    I gasped. "Lucy¡ªwhat are you¡ª"


    She climbed onto the bed, her gaze unreadable. Then, wordlessly, she wrapped herself around me like a blanket.


    Her body was warm. Softer than I remembered. Comforting. And yet, I still felt so vulnerable. Her thighs pressed against me, grinding just enough to make me squirm.


    Suddenly, I felt something wet against my neck.


    Tears.


    She was crying.


    I felt her body tremble as she held me tightly, her mouth pressing against my skin. Then¡ªshe bit me.


    "Stupid," she muttered, voice choked with emotion. "Stupid... stupid..."


    Her teeth pressed into my neck again. She clung to me like I was going to vanish any second.


    My heart clenched. Guilt flooded me in waves.


    I hadn''t realized... just how much pain I''d caused her.


    "I''m sorry," I whispered, breathless. "Lucy... I didn''t mean to make you worry."


    She didn''t respond. She kept muttering, biting, grinding her thighs slowly against me. My body was stiff beneath her touch, my breath coming in ragged pants. But I couldn''t stop her. I didn''t want to.


    Finally, she spoke again, her voice raw and shaking.


    "I thought you were dead," she whispered.


    Her tears hit my cheek again, mixing with the rain sounds outside and the heat between us.


    Then her voice shifted¡ªdeeper, colder.


    "If you ever leave again without telling me... I''ll cut off your limbs and keep you in my room forever."


    A chill ran down my spine.


    I looked up at her, wide-eyed. But in her gaze, beneath the fury and sorrow, was desperation. She wasn''t trying to punish me. She was trying to keep me. Protect me. Hold on to something she thought she had lost.


    "I''m not going anywhere," I whispered.


    She kissed me, finally¡ªdeeply, desperately¡ªas though trying to carve those words into her soul.


    And that night, in the warmth of her arms and the storm of her emotions, I finally understood just how deeply she loved me. And how badly I had hurt her.

 Chapter 33: Extreme Punishment {R18}

    Chapter 33 - Extreme Punishment {R18}


    She pulled back from our kiss, breathless. Her lips were trembling, face flushed a deep red, and her palm pressed gently against my chest, feeling the rapid beat of my heart.


    Her gaze wandered over me¡ªmy face, my body, and the way I looked at her. There was a wild glimmer in her eyes, something untamed, something... desperate.


    It was as if something inside her had snapped. She could no longer restrain herself.


    Her voice dropped to a sultry whisper, low and dangerous.


    "I''m going to punish you," she said, lips brushing my ear. "I''m going to...Fuck you."


    I blinked, stunned.


    Punish me?


    Before I could speak, she looked down at me, her expression shifting from desire to exasperation¡ªlike I was a clueless fool.


    Then, without warning, her hand slid lower, grasping me through the fabric.


    I gasped, squirming at the strange but not unpleasant sensation.


    Her expression darkened with hunger, like a predator ready to devour her prey.


    She stared down at what she held, now fully hardened, her breath hitching. For a moment, she hesitated, eyes widening as if questioning whether it would even fit.


    But the curiosity and craving in her eyes won out.


    She gripped it tighter, testing my reactions.


    I tried to hold back, but every squeeze forced a soft moan from my lips.


    Then, in one swift motion, she stripped off her clothes, revealing her body¡ªglistening with sweat and flushed with heat.


    Despite the boldness of her actions, her cheeks were burning. It was clear... this was her first time.


    "You should feel honored," she said arrogantly, even if her voice trembled slightly. "This... this is my first."


    Leaning down, she placed her hands on my chest for support. Her body trembled, but her eyes were locked onto mine, as if drawing courage from the storm in her heart.


    Slowly, she began to lower herself, wincing at the unfamiliar sensation. I felt her tense, her breath growing shallow.


    My mind was spinning. I didn''t understand why she was doing this¡ª. But even in my confusion, I didn''t push her away.


    Something inside me stirred. A craving. A need.


    I wanted more¡ªI needed to feel her, to ease the storm building within me.


    And then, in a single motion, she slipped all the way down.


    Her eyes widened in shock, a strangled sound escaping her lips as her thighs quivered. She collapsed against my chest, clinging to me as if her legs could no longer support her.


    I could feel her trembling, hear her ragged breathing.


    Her walls were tight, warm, and I noticed a trickle of blood¡ªbut I didn''t pull away.


    She looked up at me, dazed and flustered, but before she could say anything, I moved¡ªslowly, instinctively.


    With a gentle thrust, I buried myself inside her again.


    Her eyes fluttered. She bit her lip, trying to resist¡ªtrying to stay in control.


    But with every slow, deep movement, her resistance melted into moans.


    "You... idiot," she tried to whisper, but her voice broke mid-word.


    She sank her teeth into my neck, not out of rage, but from helpless frustration. Her nails scratched down my back, drawing red lines of pain that strangely only heightened the pleasure.


    I didn''t stop.


    The pleasure was overwhelming¡ªalmost painful. Her pride and arrogance slipped away with every thrust, replaced by raw emotion.


    Time blurred. The hours passed, our bodies moving as one.


    Moans, gasps, whispered names¡ªonly those sounds remained in the dimly lit room.


    Two hours later, I lay on the bed, breathless and aching. My body bore the marks of her¡ªbite wounds, scratches, bruises.


    She had collapsed into my arms, exhausted and flushed, her breathing shallow. Despite everything, she was still clinging to me tightly, as if afraid I might vanish.


    I groaned in pain¡ªour aftermath was intense. She had been too aggressive, too overwhelming. Yet even with the ache, I couldn''t deny it.


    I felt satisfied. I felt... something change between us.


    Next morning...


    Lucy woke up early seeing the scene of the aftermath made her hungry it was her first time but surely


    in our next battle she would take control atleast she thought


    Looking at my vulnerable body and almost otherwordly face made her hunger on the roof again


    Then she called out for a Maid for some food but she didn''t let the maid open the door and just left it out side the door


    Once the food is given she get it immediately then wait for me too wake up She wanted too feed him


    And also do it while she eat Licking her lips dangerously as she noticed that I''ve woken up


    She also noticed the Marks she had given making her eyes Flash with hunger Possessiveness that she fully


    Have him and marked him...

 Chapter 34: Training with The Queen{R18}

    Chapter 34 - Training with The Queen{R18}


    Opening my eyes, I saw her.


    My vision was still blurry. My eyelids felt heavy, as if they were made of stone. My whole body was sore and aching, utterly exhausted from... whatever just happened.


    She looked at me with a bright, almost angelic smile. I was about to say something about last night¡ªmaybe ask if she had finally calmed down¡ªbut before I could get a word out, she shoved food into my mouth.


    "Mnph¡ª!"


    She seemed impatient. Her cheeks were faintly flushed, and her eyes... they weren''t normal. They were glinting with a dangerous obsession that made me gulp involuntarily. There was hunger in those eyes¡ªand not the kind that food could satisfy.


    As she continued feeding me with a gentle smile that didn''t match her fervent gaze, I felt it again.


    A hand suddenly grabbed my "Excalibur."


    "Agh¡ª!" I moaned in surprise, almost choking on the bite in my mouth.


    Stunned, I tried to retort¡ªto tell her to stop¡ªbut I was too drained. My body felt like it had been put through the wringer. My energy reserves were practically empty.


    Then she licked her lips and straddled me again.


    "Did you really think I''ve forgiven you just like that?" she whispered, her voice laced with annoyance and desire.


    I sighed helplessly and tried to stop her. "I''m too tired... please, not now..."


    She didn''t stop. Even when I begged, she only got more excited. My exhaustion seemed to fuel her fire instead of extinguishing it.


    Three hours.


    Three whole hours passed as she dominated everything, taking complete control. I lost count of how many times I nearly blacked out.


    Later, as I lay slumped in the bath, she was humming cheerfully while bathing me. Meanwhile, I was focused on the intense soreness in my waist. Even my healing spells struggled to fix it.


    Lucy, on the other hand, looked positively radiant¡ªrefreshed and satisfied. At least she had the decency to dress me properly afterward: a black suit with a crisp white shirt and matching pants. It fit perfectly. A reward, maybe?


    I yawned. "Guess it''s time to train with her..."


    She wouldn''t be accompanying me for a few days, which left me strangely sad. And Izumi, that mysterious girl,is still not within her room i don''t really what''s going on with that mind of her''s


    Just thinking about the choices ahead of me gave me a headache.


    Eventually, I reached the Mansion garden. There, standing like a painting come to life, was Evelyn.


    Her golden hair was tied up neatly, and her golden eyes shimmered like they reflected the sun itself. Her blue dress hugged her figure in all the right ways, making her curves more prominent than usual. That tiny waist of hers... I had to shake my head to clear the thoughts.


    Lucy had really tainted me.


    I activated "Calm Sea" to purify my mind.


    Evelyn noticed me and blinked in surprise. I rarely showed up on time¡ªor at all. As I approached, she asked casually, "What happened to you Last week?"


    I gave her a summarized version. I didn''t tell about the decision i have too make, the mysterious maze, and Izumi entirely.


    She sighed, then suddenly pinched my cheek¡ªhard.


    "Ow¡ª!"


    "Brat," she said, pulling back with a smirk. "You really know how to get into trouble."


    I grumbled under my breath, rubbing my swollen cheek with a minor healing spell. Then I looked up at her and asked curiously, "Um... do you have spells for healing? I mean, like real recovery and regeneration magic?"


    She looked surprised for a moment, then smiled. Most youths these days only asked for flashy attack spells.


    "''Ten Extreme Healing,''" she said, then began explaining the essence of the spell.


    With my improved comprehension skills, I was able to grasp some of the spell''s foundation. While I couldn''t use it at full strength, even my weak version was stronger than any standard healing magic I''d seen.


    Curious, I asked what Tier it belonged to.


    When she replied, my stomach dropped.


    Legendary Tier.


    I gulped. The second Legendary spell I had somehow comprehended. I barely had proficiency with the first. This was too much.


    She stared at me like I was some kind of monster, then slowly began to smile. She had made up her mind. She would pass down her legacy to me.


    Honestly, she had only planned a week of basic training. But with her daughter away for a few days, it seemed like the perfect time.


    She gave me a strange look I couldn''t quite interpret¡ªsomewhere between warmth and something more dangerous. I wasn''t sure if I should feel excited or afraid.


    "We''re sparring this time," she said calmly.


    I nodded. Thanks to "Calm Sea," I could analyze things more clearly, and I felt more composed.


    She summoned her staff. I summoned mine.


    Pure white.


    She raised an eyebrow but said nothing at first. "Why is it white?" she finally asked, more curious than suspicious.


    I said nothing.


    But then... the staff spoke to me in my mind.


    "Oh, you''re going to try and beat her? You might as well kill yourself," it grumbled, voice heavy with annoyance and disdain.


    My eye twitched. "It''s just sparring," I replied mentally.


    The staff sighed. Audibly.


    "Don''t blame me if you get wrecked. I can feel her intent. It''s bad. Really, really bad..."


    Before I could ask what it meant, the world shifted.


    My jaw dropped.


    We were no longer in the tranquil academy garden¡ªbut in a vast black domain. The air trembled with mana.


    And surrounding me¡ªfloating ominously¡ªwere not three... not four... but five massive orbs of destructive energy. High-tier spells. Each one capable of leveling a building.


    All aimed directly at me.


    "...This isn''t sparring," I muttered.

 Chapter 35: How I’m Supposed To Survive That?

    Chapter 35 - How I''m Supposed To Survive That?


    I looked at her.


    The spell she had just summoned crackled in the air like a living sun. Just sensing the mana radiating off it made my knees wobble.


    That thing was too much¡ªfor someone like me, a mere 3-Star Mage.


    I gulped.


    My eyes twitched involuntarily.


    "My Queen... isn''t this a bit much?" I said, trying to keep my voice calm. There was a clear plea in my tone, though. I couldn''t help it.


    She smiled at me.


    It was beautiful, almost divine¡ªbut it carried something dangerous underneath. A smile that could warm the sun or incinerate a city. Her gaze bore into mine, mesmerizing and terrifying all at once.


    "Hmm... sure," she said sweetly. "But first¡ªtell me. How did you obtain two more high-tier spells?"


    My heart skipped a beat.


    I stood frozen, completely stunned.


    How could she tell?


    She tilted her head, her tone remaining soft, almost motherly, but with a hint of suspicion that cut like a dagger.


    "Tell me... what are you hiding, child?"


    I gulped again, my throat dry. How could she see the Calm Sea spell? I hadn''t even Let it radiates outside. Just let a flicker out for stabilization...


    But of course¡ªshe was an 8-Star Mage. No joke at all.


    A sigh escaped my lips. I could barely bring myself to speak.


    "And you can''t just learn a Legendary Spell in a short amount of time," she continued gently, yet firmly. "Unless, of course, you already understood one before. And that Spell is Far harder too comprehend."


    She paused. Her eyes sharpened.


    Her voice, still melodic, carried a chilling weight. "Answer me."


    I looked at her, stunned. I sighed inwardly.


    I really needed to be more cautious around her. She was... terrifyingly smart. Being with her was like walking a tightrope over a volcano. One wrong move, and I''d end up extra crispy.


    "Y-yes... I have a Legendary Spell," I admitted quietly.


    I raised my hand and activated the spell. At once, a translucent, jelly-like barrier wrapped protectively around my body.


    She stared.


    The massive fireball floating above her staff dimmed and dissolved instantly.


    She walked closer, observing the shimmering, fluid barrier around me. It wasn''t a normal shield. It pulsed softly, as though it were alive. The mana flow within it was complex, beautiful¡ªeven mesmerizing.


    She didn''t ask how I got it. Not right away. No lecture, no interrogation. Instead, her eyes twinkled like she had just found something interesting


    Without a word, she conjured a smaller fireball¡ªblue, compact, dense. I immediately recognized it as a high-tier spell. But in her hands, it could carry the strength of a 4-Star mid-layer attack... or worse.


    Before I could even ask what she was planning to do, she shot it.


    Straight. At. Me.


    No warning. No countdown. No "brace yourself."


    I barely had time to flinch.


    The fireball struck my jelly-like armor dead-on. I flew backward from the impact¡ªbut strangely, I didn''t feel pain. The spell''s power had been absorbed and neutralized by the barrier. The force was redistributed across the shield, and it rippled like water, swallowing the fireball whole.


    Before I could slam into the black training wall behind us, the barrier''s elasticity bounced me gently to a stop.


    I panted heavily. My body felt shaky but intact.


    She smile Gently but dangerously She knew that I''m not ordinary even Bright Yellow Talent is not my Talent it is above that


    "This... at just 2-Star Peak Layer?" she murmured.


    There was only one thing on her mind now: She had to have me.


    No, not romantically. At least, I hoped not. But she wanted to keep me. To mold me. I wasn''t ordinary¡ªthat much was obvious. She had suspected I was a purple-tier talent when we first met.


    But now? Now she was beginning to realize that my potential is almost unlimited


    If she didn''t act now, she might never get the chance again.


    She smiled¡ªsoft, gentle, affectionate. it was honestly Strange too see that obsession side of her..


    She raised her staff.


    Three more fireballs appeared¡ªeach one high-tier and crackling with ferocious power.


    I stared at them.


    I sighed. Loudly.


    There was no way I could survive this.


    The staff I held¡ªan ancient artifact with its own cold, snarky personality¡ªspoke in my mind again, its voice as calm as ever.


    "Just use Shadow Sentinel and Levitate to control the trajectory of the fireballs. If one''s going to hit you¡ªredirect it. You do have a brain, yes?"


    "...Thanks for the vote of confidence," I muttered under my breath.


    Still, the staff was right. I had options.


    Time to use everything I had.


    I activated Satan''s Eye,Slowing everything atleast 50%. Patterns of mana, trajectories, angles¡ªthey all became clear to me.


    I summoned Shadow Sentinel.


    Two identical shadows appeared at my sides, each one mimicking my stance and holding a spectral version of my staff.


    My jelly-like barrier pulsed, adapting its shape slightly. I layered Calm Sea over it for strategic analysis and mental clarity.


    Mana consumption spiked¡ªdrastically. I could feel it draining like a sinkhole. But thanks to the staff''s stabilizing effect, I wasn''t immediately depleted.


    I could keep this up¡ªfor maybe an hour. If I was lucky.


    Then came the storm.


    She began her barrage.


    Flames danced through the air. Shadows weaved in and out. The ground shook beneath my feet. I parried with the shadows, redirected two of the fireballs with Levitate, and absorbed one with the barrier. It was a deadly dance, and I barely held on.


    Time blurred.


    At some point¡ªI don''t know when¡ªthe black training domain finally faded.


    We were back in the garden. Peaceful, quiet, serene.


    I collapsed onto the soft grass.


    My Clothes was torn in several places. Smoke curled from the edges of my sleeves. Burn marks painted my arms and legs, and every bone in my body ached.


    She stood above me, chuckling softly.


    She crouched down, brushing my face gently.


    I blinked in surprise.


    Warmth flowed from her palm. My injuries began to heal. I could feel the pain melting away, slowly but surely. I looked up at her and smiled, grateful beyond words.


    She smiled back¡ªsoft and teasing.


    Then, she placed her hand on her cheek in an exaggerated, dramatic gesture.


    "Truly a pity," she sighed. "I can''t lock you up and train you in secret. My daughter would be furious."


    I froze.


    Wait.


    What?


    Did she just say¡ªlock me up?


    I glanced at her again.


    For a moment, I saw it.


    That same glint in her eyes¡ªpossessive, hungry for potential. The exact same glint Lucy had when she was being... well, Lucy.


    I gulped.


    Was this some kind of hereditary trait? Possessiveness and danger wrapped in beauty?


    Still smiling, she reached into her Dress and handed me a scroll.


    "This contains the basics of the Ten Extreme Healing techniques," she said gently. "Study it well. I expect results next time."


    I took it with both hands, bowing slightly.


    "Thank you, my Queen."


    As I looked at her smiling radiantly under the sun

 Chapter 36: More Training With The Queen

    Chapter 36 - More Training With The Queen


    I looked at the scroll


    The Queen gave i felt strange emotions as i try too comprehend it


    I had just taken a bath, trying to wash away the fatigue clinging to my body like grime. The water helped, but not enough. Now, I was in Lucy''s room.


    She hadn''t returned for a few days. Her presence was absent, but her scent still lingered faintly on the pillows. That made me feel... guilty.


    I sighed, sitting cross-legged on her bed.


    "I''ve really messed up her plans, haven''t I?"


    Even though she wasn''t here, I could still feel her expectations. Her presence haunted the space in the form of neatly arranged books, a half-finished charm by the windowsill, and the locked drawer I never dared open.


    But what''s truly troublesome... is the decision looming ahead.


    The first competition of the Queen selection is starting soon.


    And yet, here I was, tangled in politics, prophecies, and people who could summon tsunamis with a flick of their wrist.


    I chuckled dryly.


    "Am I really thinking of fighting that person? The one whose spells can sink mountains?"


    I shook my head. It sounded so absurd even to myself.


    And yet, something inside me whispered: Maybe... just maybe... if I train hard enough this month, I can defeat that ''emotion'' she mentioned.


    Was it a metaphor? Or something more literal?


    I didn''t know. But I knew better than to ask.


    I sighed again, deeper this time, and held the scroll in my hands. I decided to study it through the night. If nothing else, I could get stronger¡ªeven if I couldn''t find answers.


    ---


    By the time dawn broke, I hadn''t slept at all.


    Instead, I had spent hours comprehending the Queen''s scroll. The Ten Extreme Healing Techniques weren''t just impressive¡ªthey were revolutionary. Unlike standard healing spells that patched wounds slowly, these could regrow limbs and restore entire muscle systems mid-battle.


    One spell even let you regenerate while taking damage. It was insane.


    And it was perfect for me.


    By the time the sun crept over the horizon, I felt drained but satisfied. I tucked the scroll away and got dressed.


    When I stepped into the garden, I found Evelyn standing there.


    She looked radiant as always. Golden eyes shimmered in the light, and her golden hair cascaded down her back like flowing silk. Even from a distance, her perfume reached me¡ªlight, floral, and captivating.


    As I approached, she turned and smiled gently.


    "Hmm... did you sleep well?" she asked. Her voice was warm¡ªlike a mother checking on her child.


    I smiled wearily. "Well, I comprehended the Ten Extreme Healing Techniques. Isn''t that better than sleep?"


    I chuckled softly.


    She raised her hand to her flawless cheek in an exaggerated manner and sighed dramatically. "You know... rest is more important than you think."


    Before I could even respond, she pressed something¡ªa black sphere, hidden within her robe.


    And just like that, reality warped around us.


    We were back in the training domain.


    That familiar black void surrounded us. The Queen''s twisted training playground.


    She chuckled, her lips curling into a teasing smile.


    "Since you grew stronger again in just one day... how about we double your training to ensure continued growth?"


    Her voice was sweet.


    But I could feel the danger behind her words. It wrapped around me like a vice.


    I immediately summoned the white staff¡ªthe sentient artifact that had become my reluctant companion.


    Its cold, mocking voice echoed in my mind.


    "Kid, be careful. Her intent this time is different. She doesn''t care if you get injured anymore."


    The staff''s tone was detached, but its warning was clear. I gulped.


    "Wonderful," I muttered under my breath. "Just what I needed..."


    Still, what choice did I have?


    Until Lucy returned, I had to survive.


    ---


    One week passed.


    In the blink of an eye, it was gone¡ªdevoured by Evelyn''s monstrous training schedule.


    Every single day, she pushed me past my limits. Heat spells, lightning chains, endurance tests that Exhausted me again and again.


    She wore a gentle smile while doing it, of course.


    But I knew better. That smile was more dangerous than any fireball.


    By the time the week ended, I had somehow reached 3-Star Early Layer. My body was stronger, my reflexes sharper, and my mind more focused.


    But my soul? My soul felt tired.


    Now I lay sprawled out on Lucy''s bed once more, the softness of the mattress a welcome relief after the torture Evelyn had called "sparring."


    Tomorrow, Lucy would be back. At least, I hoped so.


    Despite everything, I missed her.


    Evelyn''s warmth was a beautiful illusion, like sunlight in the middle of a blizzard. But Lucy''s presence was different. Calmer. More grounded.


    Yet I couldn''t sleep.


    Something gnawed at the edge of my mind¡ªunspoken dread.


    Then I felt it.


    A shift in the air.


    I opened my eyes slowly.


    And there she was.


    Izumi.


    Her white hair floated gently, carried by winds that didn''t exist. She stood near the window, and her blindfold had changed¡ªnow shimmering with blue sigils.


    She was watching me.


    Or... maybe sensing me.


    I blinked. I rubbed my eyes.


    But she didn''t vanish.


    She was really there.


    Her voice, soft and almost soothing, broke the silence.


    "You have one week left," she said. "Tell me¡ªhave you made your decision?"


    Her words seemed warm on the surface.


    But in my heart, they felt like ice.


    A deep, hollow coldness seeped into my chest. I couldn''t respond.


    How had she gotten in here? I hadn''t even noticed. No spells, no energy flares, nothing.


    Just silence.


    Just her.


    What was she?


    No 2-Star mage could slip past my senses like this. Even Evelyn couldn''t appear undetected, and she was an 8-Star monster.


    Izumi... was something else.


    And her question hung heavy in the air.


    A choice.


    One week from now.


    Either I would sacrifice half the people in Song Kingdom¡ªor someone precious to me.


    That''s what she had warned before.


    And now... the moment was approaching.


    I clenched my fists.


    "What''s happening to me?" I whispered. "Why does this choice even exist? Why me?"


    My helplessness screamed louder than my words. For a moment, I felt like I was crumbling¡ªshattered into a thousand pieces.


    I didn''t know what to do. Didn''t even know what I felt anymore.


    That''s when the staff spoke again.


    Its voice cut through my mind, sharp as a blade.


    "You really are pathetic," it said. "You can''t save anyone. You can''t even make a proper choice. My new master... is a disappointment."


    The words stabbed deeper than any Words.


    I sat there, hollow.


    What was the point of comfort? It was just a temporary escape from a cruel reality. Nothing more.


    I didn''t need warmth. I didn''t need soft words.


    I needed answers.


    And power.


    My gaze turned cold.


    My breathing slowed.


    The light in my eyes dimmed, shadows filling the void left behind.


    I''ve made my decision


    No more hesitation.


    No more fear.


    [idk extra Chapter TvT]

 Chapter 37: Bitter Sacrifice? {1}

    Chapter 37 - Bitter Sacrifice? {1}


    I looked at her with a sigh, eyes heavy with emotion, my gaze laced with an expression that could only be described as mournful. Then, I spoke slowly, my voice purposefully low and cold, crafted to fool her.


    "I''m sorry, Lucy..."


    Her lips curled into a gentle smile behind that mysterious blue blindfold. Despite the blindness, she always seemed to see through everything.


    "Good. It seems you''ve finally made your decision," she said softly, her voice calm and understanding, but tinged with something more¡ªperhaps sadness?


    She stepped forward, her footsteps soundless as she approached. Then she explained in a tone void of emotion, like she was reciting a ritual.


    "You need to obtain at least one of her belongings. Just one. And only one life can be sacrificed."


    And with that, she vanished again, like a shadow at sunset. The white staff by my side said nothing. It remained still and silent, as if agreeing with her, as if convinced that I had already chosen.


    I looked up at the ceiling in silence.


    I should enjoy my time for the next week... No. Not enjoy.


    Train.


    I needed to get stronger¡ªfaster.


    I let out another sigh and sat down cross-legged, closing my eyes as I began to comprehend my spells. Slowly but surely, their depth unfolded before me, layer by layer. Throughout the night, every Spell I had learned, became more refined¡ªmore efficient.


    The Exorcist Form... it was finally complete. I had achieved perfect comprehension.


    With this form, my Power will be 6x Stronger


    Morning came quietly. Golden sunlight streamed into the room. As I sat immersed in the flow of mana, my focus absolute, I heard rapid footsteps. Then a body slammed into mine with a tight embrace.


    "Akashi!" Lucy''s voice sang as she hugged me tightly, her tall frame engulfing mine like a protective cocoon.


    I smiled bitterly but kept my expression warm. Slowly, I asked, my voice soft and genuine, "Can you give me... your most important belonging? Maybe... a lucky charm you keep?"


    My tone was laced with sincerity and warmth¡ªso perfectly faked that even I almost believed it.


    It was a fac?ade I had practiced over the sleepless night. The black lines around my eyes, now well-hidden beneath the surface, were invisible to her.


    It was all an act. A necessary deception.


    Even as she held me tightly, her face buried into my neck, sniffing me possessively, I couldn''t stop the thoughts that plagued me.


    Does a million lives truly outweigh what I''m doing?


    Why I''m Fated hero? Isn''t a hero supposed to protect everyone?


    I clenched my fists, suppressing the trembling in my hands.


    Then, slowly, she pulled away and held out a small ring. Its silver surface gleamed faintly under the morning light.


    "I found this when I was a child... It came in a pair. One had the image of the moon, the other of the sun. I kept them both, always."


    She smiled, genuinely. It was a beautiful smile¡ªpure and unguarded.


    I looked at the ring. Hers had a golden sun etched onto it, while mine bore the soft glow of a silver moon.


    I smiled back¡ªthis time, not bitterly.


    "Thank you," I whispered and hugged her back tightly, as if afraid to let go.


    Then I leaned close, brushing my lips near her ear. "Can you help me forget everything again?" I asked in a voice that was both teasing and seductive.


    She froze. She''d never heard me speak like that. It startled her¡ªand yet, it drew her in.


    Still holding me, her breath caught slightly. Her hands trembled. Something inside her warned her that this wasn''t right. Something felt... off. But when she looked at my face, all she saw was warmth.


    A smile spread across her lips, and then she kissed me¡ªsoftly, suddenly.


    And I surrendered to that kiss.


    The week passed in a strange blur. A fragile illusion of peace.


    Lucy stayed by my side, giving me comfort, trying to shield me from whatever weighed on my heart. We shared laughter, warmth, even moments of intimacy.


    But I didn''t waste time.


    I pushed my body past its limits, pouring everything I had into my training. I broke through, reaching the early layer of 3-Star rank. I was already nearing the mid-layer.


    I perfected nearly all of my spells. Only two remained¡ªthe legendary ones, which were my Proficiency is still 50% at best


    Lucy told me I didn''t need to participate in the upcoming 1st competition anymore.


    Since I''ve already Won in the 2 Star Round which mean she won the first Round


    She invited me to watch the competition anyway, hoping we could enjoy it together.


    But I shook my head.


    She insisted, but I remained firm. My tone was final.


    She sighed, clearly disappointed, but accepted it in the end. Before leaving, she kissed me on the cheek. After she was gone, I touched the spot where her lips had brushed my skin, and I smiled bitterly.


    Night came.


    And so did Izumi.


    She appeared without warning, standing in front of me. She smiled as she saw the ring on my finger, her blindfold shifting slightly as if she were staring at it.


    "Good. It''s good that you''ve already made your choice," she said, her voice filled with warmth for the first time.


    I nodded, cold and unreadable.


    I still didn''t know if she was truly the enemy. Maybe she wasn''t. Maybe she, too, was simply playing a part in a tragedy written long before us.


    She gave me a choice¡ªone final choice.


    The real enemy wasn''t her. It was the Emotions.


    Suddenly, everything changed.


    We were teleported again¡ªto the site of the prophecy. The ancient ruins. A desolate place haunted by fate.


    In the center, a vast pit yawned before us. A hole so deep and dark it felt like it could swallow the world. Next to it was a large, glowing red button.


    Two choices.


    Press the button¡ªand half a million lives would be lost.


    Or throw the ring into the abyss¡ªand sacrifice the one I cherished most.


    Izumi stood behind me, silent now. She had said everything she needed to say.


    I laughed suddenly. A hollow, bitter sound that echoed through the ruins.


    Izumi flinched. She didn''t expect that.


    I walked toward the hole. Step by step. The ring tight on my finger.


    "Stop...!" she shouted. Her voice trembled.


    Even without eyes, her expression turned to panic.


    "NO! DON''T TELL ME¡ªSTOP!!"Before she could restrict me on moving


    it was already too late.


    I stepped off the edge.


    And fell.


    Into the darkness.


    A single sacrifice. That was the rule.


    Lucy would live.


    The ring would be along with me for my Lucky Charm it was a Gamble but atleast


    the millions of Lives... would survive.


    [Anyway would love y''all Opinion so Far TvT]

 Chapter 38: Bitter Sacrifice? {2}

    Chapter 38 - Bitter Sacrifice? {2}


    Suddenly, I found myself once again in the endless white light.


    It was blinding and infinite, stretching in every direction without end. I stood there, lost and weightless¡ªuntil I saw someone ahead. My eyes narrowed.


    It was... me.


    But not quite. This version of me stood tall, cold, and emotionless, his gaze sharp as a blade. He stared at me with an intensity that chilled my bones, like he wanted to tear my skin apart and feed it to wild beasts.


    Then he spoke¡ªhis voice void of warmth.


    "You''re stupid. Really... stupid."


    Before I could react, his hand shot out, gripping my throat tightly. I gasped. My lungs ached for air, but nothing came. His grip tightened, choking me with terrifying ease.


    I don''t know why, but I was completely powerless in this place. I couldn''t move. I couldn''t even feel my body. It was like I was trapped in a dream where I no longer existed¡ªjust a hollow shell.


    "What a ridiculous dream," he sneered, his voice colder than ice.


    His fingers clenched even tighter around my neck as he lifted me into the air. I dangled helplessly, unable to speak, unable to resist.


    "Sacrificing yourself... for the sake of others?" he mocked.


    His words struck something deep inside me. They rang true. Even as everything began to blur, and my consciousness faded, I could still hear him clearly.


    "Do you think your so-called talent can save you?" he whispered harshly, eyes glowing with contempt. "Don''t tell me you''ve already grown arrogant... just because you''re a little ''special''?"


    His voice was pure frost. Unforgiving.


    "It''s a pity... That my past self would be foolish enough to make such a decision."


    He dropped me.


    The fall never ended. I tumbled through nothingness until the light vanished¡ªand I was swallowed by an endless, suffocating darkness.


    ---


    Now, I was underwater.


    Strangely, I could breathe. My mind was hazy, heavy like it was drifting on the edge of sleep. I floated silently in the depths, shadows swirling around me.


    Then I saw it.


    A creature¡ªno, a colossus. It was as massive as a mountain. Compared to it, I was nothing but a speck, an ant.


    Its eyes glowed an eerie blue, illuminating the murky water. I couldn''t see its entire body. It was too vast, too otherworldly¡ªjust a silhouette that stretched beyond comprehension.


    And then... it laughed.


    A deep, thunderous sound that rumbled through the waters.


    "I am Sadness," it said, voice ancient and resounding. "And yet... I laugh. How amusing."


    It paused, then added with dark humor, "The Hero... sacrificing himself? That''s new. Never¡ªnever¡ªin all the generations of Heroes has one done that."


    Its eyes locked onto me. I trembled, feeling like a fragile insect under its stare.


    Then it pointed at me.


    There was something mysterious about all this. I had to ask.


    "What... are the Emotions?" My voice was cold as ice, steady despite my fear.


    The creature sighed. A heavy, echoing sound.


    "Emotions... We are a Great Calamity," it said. "Our power surpasses even the highest known levels. Beyond the 8-Star rank you humans chase so blindly."


    Its lips twisted into a smile, but the sight chilled my soul.


    "I could turn you into my Core, but... you are the Hero. And for that, I will offer you a deal instead. Return to me my original Core. The one that was sealed long ago."


    My heart thudded. This wasn''t just some strange dream. It was real¡ªand there existed a power beyond 8-Star. Far, far beyond.


    "I... I understand," I said slowly, processing the enormity of what I had just heard. I had no choice. For now, I could only obey.


    Suddenly, a starfish appeared above my head. With a flick of its finger, a massive surge of water erupted, crashing around me.


    I looked up at the towering being once more. "How will I retrieve your Core?" I asked, my voice still cold, unwavering.


    It chuckled, the sound reverberating through the water. "You''ll have to enter a place where only the Hero may tread. Do not make any foolish moves... or that starfish will stop your heart instantly."


    I nodded silently, my eyes growing sharper¡ªcolder.


    Then, the staff within me pulsed with warmth and... amusement?


    A voice spoke inside my mind¡ªdeep and delighted.


    "Hmmm... you''re lucky. Use the Legendary Spell and protect yourself using the Jelly. You can defy that stupid command."


    I blinked, surprised. The staff had spoken before, but this time its tone was different. I focused on it, speaking mentally.


    "Just what are you?" I asked. "Are you... an ally?"


    It chuckled again, softer this time. "Yes, you could say that. I''ve chosen to become your ally. Your decision earlier¡ªit surprised even me."


    It paused, then added with a trace of emotion, "A true Hero... must be ready to sacrifice everything. Even themselves. For everyone else."


    ---


    Meanwhile


    Izumi paced restlessly, biting her fingers, her heart filled with dread.


    Had he really sacrificed himself?


    That choice... it could cost everything.


    Her eyes welled up with emotion, but she didn''t let the tears fall. Her goal¡ªher only goal¡ªwas to save him.


    To stop him from destroying himself.


    To protect the one she held dear, even if it meant breaking herself in the process.


    She had regressed time itself¡ªjust for him. Everything she had done, every risk she had taken, was for Akashi.


    To help him.


    To save him from the fate he was too ready to embrace.


    She knew his heart. She knew that if anyone dear to him were sacrificed, it would leave scars he could never heal.


    And yet... he was still Akashi.


    The one who would walk into death for someone else''s sake.


    She clenched her fists.


    But he wasn''t dead. Not yet.


    That meant there was still hope.


    And so, she took a deep breath and whispered to herself, "I need to risk it all..."


    She smiled faintly, the trace of sadness still in her eyes, and began to form a plan.