DD Black White [268-270] (Patreon)

Chapter 268: Hysilens and the Immaculate Maiden

Yet now that Xu Sanshi is at Shrek Academy, there's simply no way he can return to the Dou Ling Empire; and the Dou Ling imperial clan would never accept an outsider like Xu Sanshi—even if he does carry the royal blood of Dou Ling.

Thus, in this Holy Grail War, the Dou Ling Empire has been ruthlessly excluded, and they failed to notice the sweeping changes occurring across the continent in time.

After all, without a Master, one cannot summon a Servant; naturally, there's no way to know how the emergence of Servants will overturn this world.

"Xiao Ming, I'm sorry. I didn't make it to your coming-of-age ceremony."

The moment Xu Jiujiu saw Lu Jingming, delight and guilt flashed in her eyes, and she threw herself into his arms like a swallow returning to the forest.

She breathed in his familiar scent, her face full of apology.

Recently, because of the Holy Grail War, things have grown exceedingly complicated; coupled with continual shifts in internal affairs of the Star Luo Empire, Xu Jiujiu had been swamped—running around every corner of Star Luo City day after day, handling mountains of tasks.

Even at such an important moment as Lu Jingming's adulthood, she could only spare a brief window to meet him in the Simulated Universe for a hurried reunion.

So once she finally wrapped up her work, Xu Jiujiu didn't delay for a moment and rushed to Haiyuan City at once.

"It's okay, Sister Jiujiu. It's really not a big deal. You've worked yourself too hard lately. I just want you not to wear yourself out."

Lu Jingming smiled and gently caressed her cheek.

He understood well: the Star Luo royal house is short on talent now; the old don't bridge to the young. Among all the affairs, the only ones who can truly shoulder the burden are Xu Jiawei and Xu Jiujiu.

So her being so busy was only natural.

Moreover, in this continent-spanning Holy Grail War, Xu Jiujiu was also chosen by fate as a Master and successfully summoned a Servant.

That only made her burden heavier and her time even more scarce.

Lu Jingming bore her no blame at all. In his eyes, having a wife so career-driven was something to be happy about.

After all, his holdings are vast now with complicated matters all around, and he needs capable people like Xu Jiujiu to share the load.

He's always been the quintessential hands-off boss, focusing only on steering the grand direction; as for the minutiae, he entrusts them all to Changli, Ningguang, and the like.

It's much like the Geo Archon holding the Rite of Descension once a year to announce the policies for the year, leaving everything else to the Liyue Qixing.

However, compared to that relatively responsible deity, Lu Jingming is a bit worse—though at least he's better than a certain perpetually drunk lush.

And of course, better than a certain escapist shut-in girl by quite a margin.

At this moment, with Xu Jiujiu nestled in his arms, Lu Jingming enjoyed the warmth and softness to the fullest.

Unintentionally, his gaze slid past Xu Jiujiu's shoulder to someone standing a short distance behind her.

There, a Servant stood quietly, radiating a distinct aura.

"I knew I wasn't sensing wrong. Wave-Strumming Knight, Hysilens—seeing you again makes me so happy."

With a slight ripple, Cerydra appeared gracefully, staff in hand.

Looking upon Xu Jiujiu's Servant, a genuine smile bloomed on her face, warm and affectionate.

"Cerydra, to stand alongside you again in this otherworld surprises me as well."

Xu Jiujiu's Servant, Hysilens, was a black-haired girl wreathed in oceanic elements.

Compared to the petite Cerydra, Hysilens seemed a touch more mature.

Her stunning face, paired with black stockings over her legs, lent her a hint of mystery and allure.

Yet who could imagine that such a seemingly delicate beauty could erupt with terrifying power on the battlefield—slaughtering sixty thousand by herself, like a war god?

A warrior's overwhelming presence contrasted sharply with her youthful looks.

But more than a battlefield heroine, Hysilens resembled an elegant artist in some respects—a musician immersed in sound.

She was not only Cerydra's capable subordinate but also a noble demigod of the ocean, famed as the Wave-Playing Sword Knight.

"Stand alongside? Not necessarily, Hysilens. There's only one Holy Grail."

Cerydra's lips curled with a meaningful smile as she gently parried Hysilens's words.

In this unpredictable Holy Grail War, the Grail's owner was far from certain, and even former comrades must face rivalry now.

"If we were in Okhema, I would offer the Grail to you without hesitation. But in this unfamiliar world, I have principles I must uphold."

Hysilens smiled too; her voice was soft but unshakably firm.

Her eyes instinctively drifted to Xu Jiujiu nestled in Lu Jingming's arms.

Hysilens is principled. She won't betray her current Master just because the other side is her former commander.

After all, this isn't her true body, and this isn't her familiar Okhema.

"It's fine. Think of it as a dream. Stick to your principles."

Cerydra showed no displeasure. Instead, understanding shone in her eyes.

In her heart, Hysilens was not merely a subordinate but a demigod bearing the spark of hope.

In theory, there was no absolute hierarchy between them.

Hysilens followed Cerydra because she believed Cerydra could lead everyone toward a better future.

But if Cerydra ever strayed, Hysilens would not stay her hand.

"You two don't need to be like this—at least for now, you're not enemies. As for the end, let skill decide."

Lu Jingming led Xu Jiujiu forward to face Cerydra and Hysilens.

Heaven be praised—after unremitting effort, he could finally approach within five meters of Cerydra.

Sensing Lu Jingming draw near, Hysilens first glanced in surprise at the unreactive Cerydra, then appraised the man who was her Master's beloved with interest.

She tried to see what qualities in Lu Jingming had earned Cerydra's trust.

"Hysilens, welcome to the Douluo Continent. I hope this journey of yours becomes a beautiful memory."

Lu Jingming smiled gently, speaking with sincerity.

"A journey, hmm? That's not wrong." Hysilens hesitated slightly, then nodded.

After a moment's thought, she felt his description was fitting. For her, this truly was a journey whose end she might not even remember.

In this otherworld, everything was unfamiliar and uncertain.

After a simple introduction, Lu Jingming took Xu Jiujiu away, leaving time and space for the two comrades to reconnect in this unexpected reunion.

On the way back, from Xu Jiujiu's account, Lu Jingming learned that Hysilens had helped the Star Luo Empire form a unique unit: the Wave-Playing Sword Knights.

She baptized them with her oceanic power, greatly boosting their combat strength.

Hysilens is an experienced commander capable of leading armies; coupled with her demigod power over the sea and Star Luo's lavish investment, they quickly forged a fearsome legion.

This legion's birth would undoubtedly empower Star Luo in the shifting future.

Time slipped away quietly amidst tenderness.

Lu Jingming and Xu Jiujiu strolled hand in hand through Haiyuan City's streets, and before they knew it, night had fallen. Lanterns lit up, making the city dreamlike.

As always, everyone gathered for dinner, enjoying warmth and laughter.

Tonight's chef, as ever, was the gentle and virtuous Raiden Mei, with Jinhsi and Raiden Makoto assisting, preparing a lavish feast.

Jinhsi's specialty was soup dumplings—but not ordinary ones; they were a local delicacy from Huanglong, with unique technique and clever fillings. One bite burst with savory juice, unforgettable.

Among the Servants there were also culinary masters.

For example, Lemuen excelled at desserts—especially apple pie, an absolute masterpiece.

It was her younger sister Exusiai's favorite, and Lu Jingming also loved it.

Each time he tasted Lemuen's apple pie—the fragrance, the crisp crust, the soft filling—it seemed to dissolve all troubles in sweet happiness.

These gatherings were always lively.

Everyone sat together, laughter bubbling as they exchanged stories, teased one another, or even competed over a dish.

Seeing familiar figures he once only saw on a screen now alive and vibrant before him—laughing, bantering, vying for food—filled Lu Jingming with a satisfaction beyond words.

It felt like a dream brought to life, letting him truly feel the beauty and joy of living.

"My, how lively—and so many girls as lovely as flowers! Xiao Ming, you didn't even tell me."

A clear, warm voice rang out like a silver bell.

All eyes turned; the newcomer was the adorable, charming pink fairy—Elysia.

Her pink hair cascaded like a waterfall, lively eyes sparkling, and her signature radiant smile seemed to dispel all gloom.

"This is exactly why I didn't bring you back sooner!"

Lu Jingming curled his lips helplessly, though his heart brimmed with fondness for Elysia.

He knew well her charm—like the sun, warm and dazzling, irresistible. Virtually everyone liked her.

And in that parallel world, Elysia had important duties, serving as the crucial failsafe.

So, though he missed her, Lu Jingming hadn't brought Elysia to this world until now.

But things had stabilized there.

According to Elysia, Bibi Dong had obtained the Rakshasa Scythe and begun preparing to ascend to godhood.

Qian Renxue had returned to Spirit Hall, fully immersed in the Angel God trials.

Soon, that world would welcome two deities.

With the might of the Angel God and the Rakshasa God—even as newly ascended gods—they could suppress the expanding corruption points.

Both Angel and Rakshasa are first-rank gods; their power is not something ordinary true gods can contend with easily.

As the situation improved, Lu Jingming's gains in True Power continued, so he no longer monitored that side constantly.

As for that continent's political outcome, Lu Jingming no longer felt obliged to worry.

With Qian Renxue—the Angel God symbolizing justice—present, the situation had some guarantee.

Though Bibi Dong is known for extreme methods, she hasn't lost her mind completely; deep down she still harbors a mother's love for Qian Renxue.

Thus, the Douluo Continent likely would not fall into utter ruin because of her.

Once Spirit Hall housed two gods, other powers would have to choose: to submit or to resist. Lu Jingming didn't much care.

His foundation was in this world. As for the parallel world, he only needed to safeguard the Jade Chamber and the elemental academy that followed them.

Moreover, given his relationship with Qian Renxue—and with deterrents in hand—even if Spirit Hall unified the continent, coexistence with other factions wasn't impossible.

Based on this assessment, Lu Jingming finally decided to bring Elysia to this world.

Leaving her alone there long-term felt wrong to him.

Although Elysia herself didn't mind and was having a grand time, Lu Jingming believed in equal treatment: since he summoned her, he shouldn't exclude Elysia—she deserved the same company and care.

"E—Elysia!" When Raiden Mei's eyes fell on Elysia, she froze; time seemed to stop.

Memories of the Elysian Realm surged in her mind. She never thought she'd get to see Elysia again in this life—this woman who left an indelible mark on her heart.

She'd thought their parting back then was forever, and Elysia would live only in memory.

"Ah, Mei! You've grown—and even more captivating. What a delight."

Elysia spotted Raiden Mei at once, joy sparkling in her eyes.

She hurried forward, seized Mei's hands, and hugged them to her chest, as if only such closeness could convey her happiness.

The Elysia Lu Jingming summoned was not merely an avatar—she bore the memories and experiences of the Elysian Realm's memory-form as well.

Hence, she recognized Raiden Mei.

After all, Elysia's original body had passed; it was the memory-form in the Elysian Realm who truly knew Mei.

"Elysia—I can't believe I'm seeing you again. I'm so glad."

Mei's voice trembled with irrepressible joy. To see an old friend again is a delight beyond measure.

This reunion felt like warm sun in winter.

Chapter 269: Elysia and March 7th

"Indeed—and thanks to Xiao Ming. He's my lucky star."

Elysia turned and winked at Lu Jingming, her smile bright enough to light the world.

"This is Elysia—an immaculate maiden as radiant as drifting petals. But she can be a bit too enthusiastic, so keep your guard up," Lu Jingming said with a grin as he introduced her to a curious Robin and the others. Despite his words, mirth sparkled in his eyes.

"Hey! Xiao Ming, what are you saying? Why be on guard against me? I'm a tiny bit hurt~"

Elysia pouted adorably, feigning dissatisfaction, mist seeming to gather in her big, watery eyes.

But she was so cute that no one could feel even a hint of anger—more like she was coyly playing up her charms.

In that instant, Robin, Firefly, Castorice, and the other girls simultaneously raised their guard toward Elysia.

It wasn't that they readily believed Lu Jingming; it was the intuition unique to girls. They sensed the way he looked at Elysia—with deep fondness and a thread of indulgence.

His evaluation and the unique light in his eyes told them something was different.

In the past, when they were summoned or when new companions arrived, they noticed he held a natural fondness for them—even at first meeting, the familiarity and affection were unmistakable.

But this time, the feeling was palpably stronger—Elysia seemed to occupy a singular place in his heart.

"So this is what they call fan devotion?" Robin mused.

As a renowned superstar, she understood this better than others.

Just like fans who may like many celebrities but always have one ultimate favorite.

They also knew that in his original world, they were just game characters.

Players' affection for characters naturally varies by degree.

Clearly, Elysia was his ultimate favorite.

So they instinctively became wary.

A trace of plaintiveness stirred in Robin. She, a universe-level diva with fans across the cosmos and a spotlight wherever she went—yet here, she wasn't his top pick. That honor fell to Elysia.

She grumbled inwardly that she wasn't his most favorite character, which miffed her a little.

Sensing the girls' wariness, the ultimate social butterfly Elysia sprang into action.

She flitted among them like a lively pink butterfly, her sunny smile never dimming, proactively greeting everyone and sharing fun stories.

Watching Elysia quickly blend in and soon chatting animatedly with several girls, Lu Jingming's brows twitched.

As expected of Elysia—her affinity and social grace were impeccable.

Her lively, warm nature easily infected everyone around her.

Her voice was playful and a tad self-loving; she called herself an immaculate maiden, an adorable girl—words so infectious they seemed to carry magic.

In just a short while, Elysia became the gathering's happy pill and perfect mood-setter.

She held nothing back, always her truest self, as if she existed to make the world better.

Even people as chilly as Jingliu or as standoffish as Cerydra found themselves accepting her after brief contact.

Elysia's astonishing wit and insight, that contagious aura, and her genuine love for everyone—like a powerful magnetic field—won over the room.

At that moment, Robin finally understood why Lu Jingming treated Elysia differently.

She had to admit Elysia's charm was irresistible; even she felt herself admiring the girl.

The immaculate maiden before her, shining like pink crystal, made Robin feel she might be outmatched in some ways.

Sensing Robin's dip in mood, Lu Jingming discreetly took her hand and murmured like a breeze, "What's wrong? How did our superstar lose confidence? To me, my little wing girl is second to none."

"I haven't lost yet! And don't call me that!" Robin protested, cheeks flushing. She pinched his waist with a deft finger—an instinctive move seemingly encoded in every girl—to express her complicated feelings.

"Hi, I'm Elysia. It means 'Elysium,' you know—such a pretty name, right?"

While Lu Jingming and Robin exchanged subtle gestures, Elysia bounced over to March 7th with a beaming self-introduction.

"Huh? Looking closely, aren't we kind of similar?"

Elysia tilted her head, studying March 7th with interest, as if she'd found a new treasure, eyes sparkling.

"Indeed—you've got pink hair too. Eye-catching!" March 7th folded her arms, propped her chin, and nodded gravely, endorsing the observation.

"Not only that, we're both cheerful, beautiful, and optimistic teen girls. What an incredible coincidence!"

Elysia flashed her signature immaculate smile, like a blossom in spring.

"Eek—you're good with words, but… not wrong!" March 7th preened a little and nodded vigorously.

Watching from afar, Lu Jingming's mouth twitched. Put these two self-admirers together and it's a strong-strong alliance—things were bound to get lively.

With Elysia's addition, this gathering was more buzzing than ever.

A pity Mobius didn't come; she doesn't like this kind of scene. Next time, sending Elysia to fetch her might just drag her along.

At last the party ended, the liveliness fading as everyone drifted back to their rooms.

Castorice lingered to the end, hoping to say a few words to Lu Jingming.

But when she saw him taking Xu Jiujiu's hand and about to leave, she sighed softly, a trace of hidden grievance in her eyes.

She felt helpless again. When would it be her turn to be alone with him?

Seeing Castorice like this, Cerydra's gaze showed a hint of exasperation.

In her view, Castorice was too soft! Why not be bold and just snatch him away?

But Cerydra also knew this gentleness was in Castorice's bones—soft, kind, considerate—hard to change.

…

In a warm room, soul-guide lamps cast a soft glow, draping the space in romance.

In the dreamy light, two figures drew close, overlapping at last.

"Xiao Ming, I know I'm late, but it's not too late still. Think of this as your elder sister's gift for your adulthood."

Xu Jiujiu's voice was nightingale-soft, tender and indulgent.

"I love this gift, Sister Jiujiu." Lu Jingming smiled, eyes brimming with love.

He slipped an arm under the crook of her black-stockinged knee and another behind her neck, lifting her in a graceful princess carry, stepping toward the soft bed.

She lay back on the bed, hugging him tight, golden eyes glazed like misted dreams.

Holding his tall, perfect frame, she felt the masculine vigor unique to men—an invisible magnetism that turned her limbs to water.

Lu Jingming deftly blocked off the two Stigmata spaces again; in an instant, Raiden Makoto and the Greater Lord Rukkhadevata Rukkadevata saw black.

"This brat's luck with women is ridiculous!" Raiden Makoto sighed; she'd lost count of how many times she'd been screened out.

Every time this happened, it meant what followed was not for children.

The Greater Lord Rukkhadevata blinked her green eyes. Though curious about this new knowledge, she wouldn't force it if he wished otherwise.

She figured she could experience it herself another time.

With her wisdom, she had long foreseen that she and Raiden Makoto would fall into Lu Jingming's palm. That sort of thing was only a matter of time.

After all, the three were already a community of fate—prosperity and loss shared—inseparable in the future. Joining his harem seemed inevitable.

In the room, the world's noise was shut out.

Xu Jiujiu's beautiful eyes rippled like a deep lake, mesmerizing.

His ruby-bright eyes met her gold in a loving gaze.

A fresh, soothing fragrance wafted from her, like spring breeze tugging at his heartstrings.

He hesitated no longer. Since this was her personal gift, how could he be polite?

Under the soul-lamp's light, the two shadows on the wall merged into one.

On this beautiful night, Lu Jingming received a special coming-of-age gift from the princess; and the princess, too, completed her metamorphosis from girl to woman, opening a new chapter of life.

….

Meanwhile, in a nearby small villa, Robin was curled under her covers, face flushed like a ripe apple.

Due to her Harmony power, she was extremely sensitive to sound. Even with good soundproofing, she could faintly hear the subtle sounds from Lu Jingming's room.

That sound drew her in like a whirlpool, making her weak.

The superstar seemed to have a door to a new world thrown open, curiosity surging uncontrollably.

Instead of muting her keen ear, she, as if possessed, used her Harmony power to sync her senses with Xu Jiujiu's in that distant room.

Robin swore it was just curiosity, a spur-of-the-moment impulse.

But the instant the link formed, she regretted it.

Tears pricked her eyes. She blamed herself for being so curious.

She felt drowned by the synced sensations as if dying.

She never imagined Harmony would make her crash like this.

In the distant room, Lu Jingming paused, sensing something odd.

His gaze seemed to pierce the wall toward Robin's room.

Thinking of her Harmony ability, his eyes narrowed, then he smirked.

Curiosity killed the cat? No—killed the bird, perhaps.

She must be suffering now.

...

At dawn, as the first light split the sky, Haiyuan City roused from slumber, bathed in soft gold.

Beyond the city, where sea met sky, a faint ashy veil rose, like a silk gauze over the world.

Sea wind brought a chill, salty tang, drifting over the city's every corner.

Waves kept rushing ashore with a hiss, then slipping back, leaving lacy foam like pearls strewn on sand.

In the east, the sky changed subtly—at first a thread of pale rouge seeped in, then spread like paint, gilding the cloud-edges above the sea with molten gold, as if draping the sky in finery.

In the distance, seabirds skimmed the glittering water, then dove for fish and winged away, carving graceful arcs upon the sea.

"This scenery never gets old, no matter how often," Jinhsi said softly, tucking windblown silver hair behind her ear. She gazed at Firefly, who sat on a reef hugging her knees.

She knew: if she couldn't find Firefly in the morning, she'd be here, watching the sea.

"Mm. It's beautiful."

Firefly's silver hair fluttered like snowflakes. Her profile in the dawn was breathtaking, features haloed with light, so lovely even Jinhsi stared.

"You were here all night—are you unhappy?" Jinhsi asked, concerned.

She knew Firefly had once suffered from genetic defects that kept her from dreaming.

But in this world, Lu Jingming had repaired them with White Flower.

Since then, Firefly especially cherished sleep and the dreams she once longed for.

So she rarely stayed up late—let alone all night.

"No. Just couldn't sleep." Firefly shook her head, denying it.

But Jinhsi was sharp; she could tell Firefly was being stubborn. She clearly hadn't slept because she felt unhappy.

"I see. Let's head back early then. Xiao Ming will worry," Jinhsi said, deftly invoking Lu Jingming.

She knew that mentioning him would get Firefly to behave.

"Okay."

At the name, Firefly reacted at once.

She patted dust from her clothes and stood, a flicker of hidden sadness in her eyes, and prepared to return.

She didn't want him to worry. Still, thinking of him brought a twinge of grievance.

Her room was right next door to his; because of that, she couldn't bear to stay there last night and came to the sea instead.

Jinhsi sighed inwardly.

She felt it was hard on her—on one hand helping manage the city; on the other, tasked by Lu Jingming to look after Firefly and Castorice.

Though both girls were sweet and not troublesome, smoothing over the harem was… a tough assignment.

Helpless as she was, since she'd been asked, she couldn't refuse him—she'd take responsibility to the end and clean up after him.

"Comforting your crush's other suitors—I must be broken," Jinhsi muttered to herself.

Chapter 270: Xu Jiujiu and Robin

In the soft sunlight, Lu Jingming slowly opened his eyes.

Beside him, Xu Jiujiu slept on, her graceful form laid bare.

Though not explosively voluptuous, she had alluring curves and a unique charm.

Her sleep posture was a bit messy, hugging the quilt at random; the weight of justice and her fair, full thighs were uncovered—none of the princess's usual elegance.

Sunbeams slipped through the curtain seams, forming irregular shafts.

Dust motes danced in the light like playful sprites.

The light fell upon the bed, scattering across the princess's neck and collarbone, marked with red, diffusing a gentle glow like a gauzy veil—making her even more radiant.

Perhaps his movement stirred her; she drowsily sat up.

The quilt slipped down and her absolute justice was suddenly on full display.

Her lovely face flushed like a rain-fresh peach blossom, golden lashes quivering like startled wings, a hazy look in her eyes.

Her mind lagged, sitting dazed for a while before she came back to herself.

As consciousness returned, the strange ache in her body sharpened; memories of last night surged like a tide.

She recalled how she'd cast aside all reserve, been unusually proactive, even donning shame-inducing outfits—all to please the man she loved.

"Xiao Ming is really amazing!"

Thinking back in detail, she stretched with a contented sigh, her figure drawn in perfect lines.

She had long since accepted him, and though she felt shy, she was quite open to intimate matters.

Born royal, she had heard of nobles' debauched lives.

Compared to those, what she and Lu Jingming had was tame.

More than fancy techniques, she longed for something else.

She subconsciously touched her lower belly, a look of hope flickering as she recalled the last moment of last night.

"If only…"

She murmured.

The Star-Crown Sect's dwindling numbers forced this hope—the royal line was precarious: only one emperor and two princesses.

Even if the child didn't inherit the Star-Crown martial soul, that was fine—Lu Jingming's Black Abyss White Flower was far stronger.

And bloodline persists; the Star-Crown soul would linger in the blood, waiting for a descendant to awaken it.

As long as the blood continued, the Star-Crown Sect wouldn't perish.

"Sister Jiujiu, if you want a child, I have a way."

He found her expression amusing but understood the Sect's plight.

Who else could truly grasp the helplessness of a royal house reduced to so few?

"Really, Xiao Ming? You truly have a way?"

Joy lit her eyes as she looked at him, eager.

She sincerely wanted a child—not just to continue the line but as the fruit of their love.

"Did you forget my martial soul? I can manipulate at the cellular level—and meddle with genes."

He explained patiently.

Before, he couldn't; now, with his growth, it wasn't a problem.

He simply hadn't wanted children yet—he wasn't even twenty, not ready to be a father.

But seeing her hopeful now, he softened.

His senses told him she hadn't conceived last night.

On Douluo, the Sun-Moon Empire had even developed seed-extraction, enabling conception without traditional intercourse.

Even without his soul's aid, he could ask Herta for help—though he'd likely be mocked.

He preferred to handle it himself.

"Good—hurry, let's go again!"

Hearing he had a way, she lit up, ignoring the discomfort and eager to resume battle.

"Rest, Sister Jiujiu. We have time; no need to rush."

He pressed her gently back, amused and tender.

She'd gotten overexcited; once calmer, she agreed there was no hurry.

After soothing her, he remembered there was someone else to check on—last night had been tough on her.

He left, ordered two breakfasts—one sent to Jiujiu—and took the other to Robin's room.

He ran into Firefly and Jinhsi en route, but since he was bringing food to Robin, they only exchanged brief words.

In a hazy muddle, a weak Robin opened her eyes.

She first felt the cling of soaked clothes against her skin, the clammy sensation bringing a sliver of clarity.

Then last night's synced experience rushed back; color surged in her cheeks and she wanted to vanish into the earth.

"Xiao Ming… how could he be so—"

She buried her burning face in the pillow, mind replaying the night, shocked.

As a superstar, she wasn't naïve.

But for her to faint just from synchronized sensation—if she experienced it firsthand, she doubted she'd survive. How did Xu Jiujiu on the front line endure it?

"What's wrong with me?"

As she wallowed in shame, a curious voice sounded by her ear.

"Of course it's Xiao Ming, he—ah!"

She answered reflexively, then realized—and shrieked.

Rigid with panic, she slowly turned to see Lu Jingming standing bedside with a near-smirk and a food box.

"A—Xiao Ming, why are you here?"

Startled like a frightened bird, she yanked up the sweat-drenched bedding to cover herself—especially the sticky, damp clothes—her final fig leaf.

"A strange scent. Little bird, what were you up to last night?"

He sniffed and frowned slightly. The smell was familiar—he'd caught it on Yae Miko, Zhang Lexuan, or Xu Jiujiu. His expression turned wry.

"N—nothing! Get out, I need to change. And how can you just barge into a girl's room?"

She felt her face burn as she cursed her curiosity from last night.

She urged him out while loudly scolding him to mask her fluster.

"I was worried about you—brought you breakfast. After what you went through, it must've been hard."

He set the tray on the nightstand and sat at the edge of the bed.

Leaning close, lips near her ear, he whispered like a devil.

"You—you know?"

She trembled, humiliation flooding her. She wished she could disappear.

She buried her face deeper, as if that could wall her off—or suffocate the shame.

"Thanks to you, Sister Jiujiu was exhausted last night. You must be empathizing with that exhaustion, right?"

He wore a mischievous smile, clearly pleased.

Her unintended act had made the heat of the moment even hotter; Xu Jiujiu bore more for it, and Robin hadn't escaped either—thus her late rising today.

Normally, she was among the earliest risers.

"Urk! Stop—just kill me!"

She groaned. She had no face left, especially before him. She couldn't even look up, drowning in shame.

"How could I bear to kill you? You're my treasure."

Finding her adorable, he flipped back the quilt and drew her gently into his arms, lifting her in a princess carry.

"W—what are you doing?"

She clamped her eyes shut, like an ostrich burying its head in sand.

"Taking you to bathe. You're soaked—must feel awful."

Holding her, he walked to the bathroom, his voice warm but irresistible.

"I—I can bathe myself. You… go out."

At the word "bathe," she panicked, last night's images flooding back.

She forgot shyness, eyes flying open in fear.

"No. You made a mistake last night—and need to be punished."

He had no intention of letting her off easily. Firm yet gentle, he carried her into the bathroom.

He turned on the hot water; steam drifted as warmth pattered down.

Her clothes slid away piece by piece under his hands.

"Mm—"

Too weak to resist, she only struggled feebly before blushing and biting her lip, giving up.

His nearness, the memory of those overwhelming sensations, left her limp.

She wasn't a fighter; her physical strength was lacking—more so in this scene.

Facing his former 2D-wife, especially with her guard down, he couldn't play the gentleman.

Robin's allure was irresistible; in the growing heat, he wanted to devour the diva.

Since she'd brought it on herself—and disrespected Xu Jiujiu a bit—he'd launch a surprise and make her pay a tiny price.

"Little bird, is that okay?"

Even on the brink, he held back enough to ask, voice restrained and tender.

"Mm."

She nodded lightly. She was at the edge of reason anyway.

His respect in that crucial moment dispelled her shame.

She knew that a shake of her head would have stopped him.

But rather than refuse, her heart brimmed with anticipation—longing to take another step with him.