Chapter 97

Author's Note: Discord Server Link: 6JA46z23bw

"It seems like Princess Aqualina is really interested in the Saintess position, but I am sorry to say this... We already filled the quota, and also we cannot accept a person from another empire," the Archpriestess raised her hand and waved, her voice echoing with authority in the grand hall.

The followers nodded solemnly and disappeared into the shadows, their presence fading into the background like ghosts. However, one of the hooded figures lingered for a moment longer, casting a piercing gaze at the Princess before vanishing into obscurity.

"Sigh, I guess I have gone overboard," the Princess said with a hint of resignation, then posed another question, "How about a Holy artifact that heals any wounds?"

The Archpriestess stared at the Princess for a few minutes, her gaze unwavering as she processed the proposal. It was evident that the Holy Artifact had been the Princess's target from the very beginning. By raising the bar, the Princess gave the impression of lowering herself, yet in reality, it was a clever business-trading strategy.

The Archpriestess was well aware of this tactic. She cast a quick glance at the Empress, thinking, 'She just raised another bitch...' before refocusing on the Princess. Initially inclined to decline, the Archpriestess paused when the Princess proposed,

"How about a piece of land in your empire?" a move that seemed to lower her own expectations.

Now, the Archpriestess hesitated, uncertainty flickering in her eyes. As much as she desired the Aether, she had already arrived with other arrangements. However, in this moment, she couldn't shake the feeling that this might be her lucky day.

Observing the slight hesitation, the Princess concealed a smug smile, resolved to achieve her goal.

It wasn't that there was a shortage of land or resources in her empire; obtaining land within their empire.... Princess could get free entry to another land.

!~Ding~!

Survival rate: 2.9%↓

Aether's eyes widened in alarm, prompting him to cease massaging the Archpriestess's shoulders abruptly.

"Princess, you appear fatigued," Aether observed, offering a small glass of revitalizing juice.

The Princess's brow furrowed momentarily, her fatigue evident, before she accepted the bottle and took a refreshing sip.

"Here," Aether offered respectfully, handing over a towel.

The Princess paused for a moment, her demeanor poised, before graciously accepting the towel and dabbing at the perspiration on her neck.

"Princess, take rest before the next fight," Aether advised, swiftly tidying a nearby chair.

"...Are you trying to avoid being sold?" the Princess inquired, a hint of suspicion colouring her tone.

"Of course not, Princess. This humble servant's existence is dedicated to Master Kai and you. I am merely fulfilling my duty," Aether replied with unwavering resolve.

'So why didn't you take this approach earlier instead of merely rubbing her shoulders?' the Princess wondered, though she refrained from voicing her thoughts, deeming it disrespectful towards the Archpriestess.

Just as she was about to voice her inquiry, the Archpriestess interjected,

"Did you witness the spectacle, Princess?" Kai arrived, sporting a smug expression following his victory.

"Yes, I observed it with utmost clarity. You displayed remarkable prowess," the Princess complimented, her words crafted with finesse, concealing any hint of doubt.

'This girl....' Aether mumbled inwardly. She never even once glanced at Kai's fight, yet the Princess showered him with compliments... Aether slowly started to understand why Log chose this target.

So, that he could fuck himself!!

"Haha... Thank you," Kai responded with a shy expression, his cheeks tinged with embarrassment.

"My dear future husband, you arrived at the perfect moment," the Princess remarked coyly, a subtle flirtatiousness in her tone.

"Cough, Cough," Aether almost coughed up blood, her disbelief evident.

Kai's face flushed even redder, his embarrassment deepening as he absorbed the details. His face slowly turned to shock and surprise... He glanced at his father for support, but his father simply shook his head in silent disapproval.

"I-I am sorry, Princess, but I cannot make such a decision without my Grandpa's consent," Kai admitted with a defeated tone.

'Tsk' Princess clicked her tongue and looked at him even more dissatisfied expression.

The Archpriestess observed Kai before shaking her head in resignation... She would try another method.

!~Ding~!

Survival rate: 3%↑

And soon it was Princess's turn to fight. As Princess fought effortlessly, Aether leaned in towards Kai and remarked, "Master, It seems there was a crack between you two."

Kai's brow furrowed with curiosity, "What do you mean?" he inquired, turning his attention away from the ongoing matches momentarily.

"What are you saying, Slave?" Timmy interjected as he served drinks to Kai.

Ignoring Timmy's interruption, Aether continued, his words measured yet carrying a sense of urgency, "I mean to say that there's an opportunity for you to showcase your protective instincts, your strength as a man."

"Meaning?" Kai's interest piqued further while Timmy's expression darkened.

"What I mean is, why not fight in her place as well and prove that you can protect her?" Aether whispered gently, her words carrying weight.

Kai hesitated a little. Timmy, catching onto Aether's implication, cursed himself inwardly for not suggesting such a bold move sooner.

"Furthermore, consider this: while the tournament may seem like showcasing your and Princess's skill but it is ultimately your moment to shine.

She merely plays a part for appearances' sake," Aether continued, gesturing discreetly towards the Princess, who appeared visibly disinterested in the ongoing battles, "By showcasing your strength and courage before all, you not only demonstrate your worthiness but also earn the admiration of the Empress herself."

"I understand..." Kai replied with newfound determination, his gaze alight with resolve as he approached the Empress to express his desire to take on all challengers in the Princess's stead.

The Empress initially seemed taken aback by Kai's request, but a warm smile graced her lips as she nodded in approval, "That's how a man should be".

Kai's face lit up with newfound confidence as he glanced at Aether, and gave thumps up for his slave's idea.

In return, Aether really wanted to show his middle finger and wanted to say, 'Fuck you!' but...

Aether just bowed with a smile. Meanwhile, Timmy cursed himself for not coming up with a plan.

Amidst the murmurs of the crowd and the buzz of anticipation, an announcement reverberated through the arena, signalling a shift in the proceedings.

"From here on, Kai Frostblade will take Princess's place and fight in her stead!"

Princess's features twisted into a surprised expression as she watched Kai step forward to take her place in the upcoming fight. It was the first time Princess truly looked at Kai, and a subtle, genuine smile graced her lips...

'Ba-Dump'

Kai's heartbeat quickened, a rush of excitement coursing through his veins as he felt the intensity of the moment. His blood surged with anticipation, his eyes sparking with newfound energy and determination.

"He at least knows when to man up, Mother," Princess muttered softly to herself, her gaze lingering on Kai with a newfound respect. She then gracefully took her seat beside her mother, her attention fully drawn to the unfolding events of the tournament.

The Empress observed the scene with a serene smile.

Aether also smiled... but it held a different meaning.

Aether, ever attentive to Princess's needs, smiled warmly as he offered her a towel and a glass of refreshing juice, mirroring his earlier gestures of care and support.

Not content with just that, Aether took a few feathers and began to gently wave them in the air, creating a soothing breeze that brushed against Princess's face... Just how servent treats their Masters.

She glanced at Aether, who was making every effort to ensure her comfort without overstepping his bounds, and she appreciated his thoughtful gesture.

Also.. who was trying his best not to sell out... She liked it!

+1 Affection

!~Ding~!

Survival rate: 3.1%↑

'URH!! Fuck! Finally!!' Aether screamed inwardly, a surge of relief and accomplishment washing over him. He knew he needed to tread carefully now, especially since Kai would be busy dealing with others.

'Damn It!! I truly felt like I was snatching his wife!!!' Aether cursed inwardly.

"Only her?" Suddenly, the Archpriestess interjected with a frown, "What about me?" dissatisfaction was evident in her tone.

!~Ding~!

Survival rate: 3%↓

'I want to... cry!'