To create some distance between Natsuki Subaru and Emilia, Lucien ordered Elsa and Meli to intercept the Witch Cultists, particularly that lecherous Romanee-Conti.
Last time, he could have eliminated that man, but the appearance of the Jealous Witch triggered Natsuki Subaru's 26th death loop, bringing Romanee-Conti back to life.
This time, Lucien could not allow Subaru to die, otherwise he would have to restart his effort to win Emilia, a task far too thankless to risk.
As he advanced, Lucien observed the skirmish.
Elsa, Meli, and over twenty demonic beasts clashed fiercely with the Witch Cultists led by Romanee-Conti.
The battle was intense, energy crackling with every movement.
Swaggering into the fray, Lucien's presence caused both sides to halt.
"I say, Romanee-Conti, you're early.
Your turn isn't up yet.
Return and wait until the Royal Selection arc arrives.
I aim to resolve everything before then, and only afterward may you resume your antics," Lucien said, puffing on a cigar.
He exhaled smoke lazily, waving his hand at Romanee-Conti's necrotic, hollow-eyed face with obvious disgust.
"Hmm?" Romanee-Conti tilted his head ninety degrees, his wild, unsteady eyes flickering.
He had no idea what Lucien meant, yet this man clearly recognized him.
"Sloth… Sloth…" he muttered, trembling, biting his fingernails and pulling his hair, as always, succumbing to self-inflicted pain.
"Don't let me catch you wandering around, or I'll strike you down each time.
I doubt the special sorcery you're preparing to transfer your soul is that simple to complete, is it?" Lucien said, raising his hand.
A divine dragon, initially a hundred meters long, expanded instantly to five hundred meters, its massive body swaying casually, flattening trees and cracking the ground beneath.
The sky scorched, and Romanee-Conti didn't even have time to self-harm.
Elsa, Meli, and the demonic beasts retreated instinctively.
"Great Might Heavenly Dragon."
Lucien casually struck with his palm, and the five-hundred-meter dragon surged forward, churning the earth, leaving Romanee-Conti and his Witch Cultists obliterated from the area.
"Master," Elsa and Meli said, kneeling respectfully as flying sand settled.
Demonic beasts crouched behind them.
"Stay alert.
That pervert isn't dead yet.
I don't want anyone disturbing us during this period," Lucien said, his eyes cold and indifferent.
"Yes, Master," Elsa replied, her face flushed, eyes misty, almost overwhelmed.
Lucien had briefly considered transforming Emilia, Ram, and Rem into demons to control Subaru, but that plan was impractical.
Roswaal, Betty, and Puck would notice immediately.
Demonized eyes would resemble Lucien's, bloodstains spreading unnaturally across their bodies.
The variations would stand out.
Considering this and other factors, Lucien opted for a path of no return, one that also provided the perfect stage for a love that could shake the heavens, last until seas dried, rocks crumbled, and merge two hearts into one.
Lucien's intentions, at the core, were pure.
Meanwhile, as Lucien had anticipated, Romanee-Conti survived by transferring to another body, though his mental state was shattered, scratching and biting himself until blood flowed.
---
As Lucien entered a nearby village, he had only one purpose: buying toys and snacks for the children.
According to his strategy, showing kindness to children reflected Emilia's beloved nature, increasing his favor in her eyes.
Winning their trust now would make Emilia see his compassionate side and reduce her fear in future interactions.
"Lord Lucien, will you come play with us again?" the children asked eagerly, clutching snacks.
Within half an hour, Lucien had befriended them all, talking about everything, squatting down with a serious expression and extending his pinky.
"I will keep my promise.
Once we hook, you can't change your mind."
The children hooked pinkies with him, and reluctantly waved as Lucien drove the cargo cart down the path.
---
It wasn't long before he returned to Roswaal's Mansion.
The loud noise had alerted Emilia and the others at the main gate.
Emilia exhaled in relief upon seeing him unharmed.
Subaru's expression darkened; he had secretly hoped for Lucien's demise.
"Yo! Liya, Puck, Miss Ram, Miss Rem, Mr. Natsuki Subaru, I'm back!" Lucien greeted cheerfully.
"Did you buy a lot of things?" Puck asked, flying to Lucien's side and peering at the bags.
"Yes, gifts for everyone," Lucien replied.
"Are any for me?" Puck asked, expectantly.
"Of course, everyone has one," Lucien said, beginning to unload the cargo.
Emilia came to help, and even Natsuki Subaru reluctantly assisted.
The hall quickly filled with an assortment of beautiful clothes, cosmetics, and other curiosities.
"Miss Ram, this is my payment for the food," Lucien said, presenting a box containing almost a thousand gold coins.
"Uranus, how do you have so much money?" Emilia asked, holding a beautiful dress, her smile radiant.
"I sold the Ghost Mask Harley.
I eat a lot, after all…" Lucien scratched his head sheepishly.
"How could you sell that magical tool?
That was for your escape…" Emilia began, flustered, but stopped when Lucien smiled.
"Liya, it's fine.
At worst, you can protect me from now on," he said warmly.
"I… I will definitely protect you," Emilia said, clenching her small fists with determination.
"Shameless, letting a woman protect him," Subaru muttered, his voice tinged with contempt.
Lucien shrugged without responding, handing the box to Ram.
"Miss Ram, please take good care of me from now on," he said sincerely.
Ram examined the gold coins, then glanced at Lucien, her expression softening slightly.
He had sold his escape tool not to freeload but to exchange it for gifts, a principled, slightly foolish man, and one who had clearly already saved Emilia and herself.
_____
Read Chapters in advance, Become a supporter 🌷
And join the journey
Patreon.com/Zphyr
Countless chapters await you🥀 (Check Comment)