Chapter 466 – Best Victories Are Earned Indirectly

By the time Asterios and Silvia were done, their bodies were riddled with black smears and smudges. It was inevitable considering the location they had chosen for their late meeting. Brushing their fronts and backs against multiple furnaces and dusty counters hadn’t helped either. Therefore, their naked glory was marred by the consequences of their own actions.

Fortunately, they didn’t see any damage other than a bit of a mess created by their frisky actions, including some obvious stains over the floor and certain hearths. As hot as Silvia’s fiery desire had burned, the forge survived its intensity. It was a proof of quality the master smith’s workshop could boast about for ages to come.

As long as someone cleaned it all up from the result of the pair coming several times in its confines.

Receiving his dependable princess’ reassurance that everything would be handled without a single issue, Asterios used his thumb to clean up a tiny sooty mark over her nose, evoking a charming chuckle from his mate, and moved them into the baths. Confirming that the one they had picked was truly empty, they got to work right away.

It took them quite some time to wash their bodies, especially since both of them insisted on taking care of each other. Slowly but surely, Asterios got rid of every single stain offending Silvia’s elegant skin. She made sure he gave her charms a lot of attention too, clearly intent on having them be perfectly presentable for him. Besides, as he knew perfectly well already, she loved the way his fingers softly caressed her sensitive regions.

He naturally didn’t protest when she gratefully returned the favor, gracing him with loving pecks whenever she came around his lips, and sometimes even his chest or back. Without dragging it out, she wrapped it up in a flash, saving enough time to ensure his royal scepter was in its best condition, trying her best not to think of the moments she had shared with it just minutes ago.

To end things on a pleasant note, they cared for each other’s hair, pressing their bodies together cordially. Silvia’s temporary transformation had retreated and her appearance returned to its natural state shortly after their final passions. Her enchanting eyes still glowed slightly, but it was a minor detail. Asterios was catching himself peering into those molten pools as much as she was spacing out while admiring his draconic gems.

They spent fifteen minutes soaking in the warm water, Silvia lounging in Ast’s lap with her head resting against his shoulder, then dried themselves up with towels and hopped through the shadows into her old bedchamber. It was still kept tidy and clean for her return on any day.

Like this one.

Asterios glanced around the pristine room until his eyes fell upon a familiar dresser. He walked up to the tall wardrobe and rested a hand against the unblemished silvery panel reflecting his likeness to him. Silvia entered the frame too, her nude figure showing up in the mirror next to Ast’s, her cheeks tinged with a trace of rosiness.

“Is it silly that I kind of wish I could keep the broken one in here for the sake of… memories?” she asked a tad shyly.

He moved his palm to her waist and pulled her closer. “Not in the slightest. I share the sentiment. But, it shall live with us forever through your birthday gift, my love.”

She accepted the peck on her cheek with a smile, following his gaze through the mirror. Seeing it check her feminine parts out in the reflection, she rolled her eyes, though her grin only grew, especially when she noted a slight rise in a certain section of her partner’s body.

Turning around, she sashayed away, her noble hips swaying enticingly with each step as she proudly displayed everything to him.

Halfway to the bed, Silvia cast a fleeting glance at Asterios over her shoulder. “The knowledge that my sole allure is still enough to cause such an honest reaction out of you fills my heart with comfort… and delight.”

Glaring at his lower half as if it had heinously betrayed him, he chuckled warmly, arriving behind her soon after. “I might be surrounded by the most bewitching women across the realms, but I fell for each of them individually, and it’s impossible for me to ever not appreciate them for who and what they are. Every single one of you is more than I should have been able to captivate.”

Pulling him onto the sheets, she kissed his jaw. “Careful, My Dragon Lord. Your old human habits are showing again. Do you need me to call the rest of your mates here so they can remind you why they are all your faithful companions?”

Laughing out loud, he lay down next to her and pulled the clever princess into his chest. “No, tonight I wish to hold just you in my arms. As long as they aren’t bothered by it.”

Silvia snuggled into the crook of his neck. “I already let everyone know you are here and they encouraged me to keep you company. Your talent at picking the most suitable mates is impeccable, My Lord.”

“Stop it.” Asterios snorted, evoking a chuckle from her. “I love you, Silvia.”

“I love you too.” She pulled herself up to press a fond kiss into his lips, returning to her spot right after. “I’m the happiest by your side. You often rely on me and always care about my feelings, traits not every princess can expect after joining the family of another aristocrat.”

“It’s only natural.” He embraced her lovingly and pulled the covers over them. “I simply give back what I receive. Good night.”

They fell asleep in each other’s arms, completely content and at peace.

Surprisingly, both of them woke up fairly early in the morning, almost at the same time. Considering the hour, they lazed around a little bit, lounging in the bed while exchanging hugs and kisses. Per Silvia’s request, Asterios reached out with his shadows and brought back the stack of papers from the library, then put a handwritten note from the princess about the forge in its place.

“Shall we head back, then?” she asked, sitting up and letting the sheets slide off her beguiling chest.

Asterios did the same, offering her an equal occasion to admire him back. “I think so. You won’t have to repeat the whole thing if everyone is there when you introduce the corrected plan. The Committee’s remarks are included in that, right?”

“Yeah.” She nodded. “I was informed about everything. Let’s go.”

Intentionally crawling in front of him, she threw her legs off his side of the bed and rose in a graceful manner. Shaking his head, he got up next to her, rested their shoulders together, and checked the state of their bedroom back in Glimmervale. All his other mates were still asleep, which was perfect. Showing up in the quiet chamber, they exchanged glances and decided to slip into the group, finding a decent gap in the middle.

Their actions woke Miria up, but the panthergirl was overjoyed to just snuggle with them while waiting for the others. Ast’s chuckles as she brushed her cheek all over his front while asking Silvia how their night had gone roused the ladies one by one. His surprised grunt followed by a resigned sigh brought the last person out of the dreamlands, namely Tina.

“Everyone is up? Great. I would like to hear what you think about the current iteration of the Remembrance Day plan,” Silvia said softly, summoning her notes.

“Hm? What about Professor?” The blue-haired girl glanced around while rubbing her eye.

She spotted the weird motion of the sheets as they floated up and down and raised the edge with a confused frown. Witnessing what was hidden beneath, she huffed in annoyance and slammed them shut again.

“We’ll have to wait a minute. Or two?” Tina raised an inquiring brow at Asterios, her cheeks rosy.

He snickered and offered her forehead a chaste peck. Grea was done waking him up three minutes later and emerged from beneath the covers, taking Ast’s side as she pushed Miria onto his chest. Without any more disruptions, the princess read out her summary. Asterios and the others chimed in now and then, discussing the proceedings.

“This is so convoluted but at the same so interesting and exciting,” Tina commented with a merry smile. “Basically, you aren’t betting your rule over Glimmervale, but your spot amidst its council. Kind of like the spot of a substitute teacher, who is there to observe the students while the homeroom teacher has already instructed the class president on what to do, passing down the necessary authority to the trusted person for the period of their absence.”

“With Lady Luna’s and Miss Kindra’s news campaigns, it’s pretty much ensured that the realm will be properly informed about the real intentions behind this recurring memorial celebration,” Selene added, stroking her chin. “Meanwhile, King Welrond will allow those disgruntled nobles to keep their slightly misguided beliefs so that they don’t withdraw from the contest after figuring out that the power they could win isn’t actually that significant. Once they are hopelessly defeated, they won’t cause any more trouble in the future, having their leadership revoked for about a year and being temporarily replaced by more competent family members. I have a feeling those households won’t be eager to return to the old arrangement after experiencing the better option.”

“Considering everything, this could even turn into a super fun event!” Miria giggled cheerfully. “Just imagine this scenario, the people of the nation playfully explaining to the travelers that their lord is no longer worthy of overseeing them after being defeated so he takes a year-long pilgrimage to overcome his weakness and return stronger, better, even more draconic! Of course, assuming Master holds back enough to actually lose or perhaps acknowledge someone’s win.”

Bryn tapped her cheek. “Regarding the latter part, the leaders of our allied nations or their representatives could be a good choice. It’s a generous opportunity to observe how our country functions and manages to thrive, giving them a chance to better their own communities through this friendly exchange. We know we can trust them and they definitely are interested in the benefits behind such cooperation.”

“Right.” Althea nodded sagely. “That aligns with the rules Ulyssen crafted. They ensure only the people appointed by our affiliates can partake in the challenge. The winner between those representatives gets the fame, honor, and whatever monetary reward promised by their master for their services. Meanwhile, the noble or whoever is the one represented gets to see what it feels like to physically sit in the lord’s throne and watch over the flourishing domain. It’s a learning prospect over anything else.”

They all nodded along, agreeing with her and their insights. Silvia had done an incredible job combining all the points from her father, the Committee, and them not just into a solid scheme but even into a festivity on a national scale. No one had any doubts that the princess would have made a glorious queen for the Human Kingdom.

Unfortunately, Asterios stole her from under their noses and she would now reveal her talents to the world as the Dragon Empress. Alongside her just-as-capable sister-mates.

“What about you, Grea?” Asterios brushed his fingers against his demon lover’s arm.

“Huh?” She blinked at him distantly. “Sorry, my mind is still hung up on something else.”

Tina snorted openly, earning herself a smack on the shoulder from her former teacher.

“Not that! I meant the interdimensional passage!” Grea’s reprimand caused her to glance aside guiltily while her face blossomed in embarrassment. “But, I like the way you think.”

That elicited a loud groan from the poor girl who no longer felt bad about her response, the others chuckling at their funny interactions.

“Anyway, I think this is great. There isn’t much I can add. I’d rather focus my brainpower where I know it counts.” Grea smiled at Asterios lightly, a trace of her old vulnerability in her expression.

He peppered her face with cordial pecks. “You do that. And how is it going?”

“Better than I expected.” She perked up instantly, pushing her boobs more into his side. “Dad is so envious of my new sight. We are making insane progress. I feel like I can not only see more but also comprehend everything better. Heh, I would say you fucked a new mind into my head but it happened before you showed how much you love me after your return.”

“I’m excited to see the results, then.” Asterios stole her lips for one last deep kiss. “If that’s all, we should get up. There’s lots to do. Can I trouble you with overseeing this little project of ours, Silvia?”

The princess beamed at him elegantly. “Tina and I will gladly see it come to fruition, right?”

The noble in question nodded confidently. “Leave it to us, Ast. We’ll make you proud.”

“That’s everyday, though.” He chuckled, enjoying the sight of their cheeks gaining a hint of pink. “Thank you. Let me know when I can help with anything.”

And so, they left the bed, dressed up while chatting happily, and moved to the dining hall for a joint breakfast. During the meal, they consulted with Camille, Yumi, and other maids regarding the matter of the children, sending a messenger to bring Kindra and Luna in. The two headmaids took it upon themselves to direct this endeavor and had already talked with Viona.

Afterwards, they all split up and Asterios escorted Grea to her workshop, where Radir was already putting his nose into a multitude of books. She briefly showed him a few of their discoveries and prototypes before also getting deeply engaged in her magical infatuations. Leaving them to their own fate, he returned to the surface, pondering on what to do next.

He would meet with the noctis sisters later. The girls were handling the challenge. Grea most likely wasn’t going to bring him teacher hunting just yet. He recalled Bryn and Selene talking about some things they had in mind, so he could confront them. Going to Truvi to talk more about the dwarves was a viable option too. He also needed to prepare for the summoning ritual if he wanted to safely, as much as possible, lure in another True Dragon through the gate.

The choices were plentiful, the time was not.

But, as he was looking upon his city from the castle’s ramparts, he spotted a boy running with a kite shaped like a Lesser Dragon, which followed him by sailing through the air and making wriggling motions. Then he remembered one more promise he had made.

Expanding his senses, he checked Althea’s location, finding her in her lair alongside Phatru, Rusilthea, and the mentoring duo’s eager disciples. He spotted Visenna on the side too, sitting close enough to count into what had to be an ongoing lecture.

Transferring himself into a shadow behind a tree just out of their sight, Asterios stepped into the peaceful clearing. He smiled at its simple ingenuity. Althea had grown stump-shaped stools for their listeners to sit on comfortably, a small angled surface positioned ahead of them to rest their elbows on or take notes. The trees surrounding the spot formed a shape similar to the amphitheater from Phasmantia, making the disciples feel even more at home. A massive wooden board stood behind Phatru and Althea, who were in the middle of explaining something.

Not wanting to interrupt the lecture, he silently moved to Visenna, who sat on a fallen log further behind the others, right at the edge of the woods. She noticed his approach, her draconic eyes widening briefly, but she quickly regained her composure, continuing to observe the lesson. Not seeing any signs of discomfort in her posture, Asterios sat down near her, leaving a healthy distance between them.

They sat in silence at first and he took her in, noting the changes. Visenna had replaced her previous robes with a new set, still majorly consisting of green shades. It was tighter around her waist, however, and the lower front was cut open, fully revealing her slim legs and the capacious shorts she was wearing. Additionally, she had donned an emerald chestplate to protect her torso. All in all, it was a clearly more adventurous look compared to the one before.

Asterios had a faint idea what might have inspired it.

After a few minutes, she spoke first. “Hello.”

He smiled kindly. “Hi. I don’t mind waiting for the lecture to end if you want to keep listening.”

“It’s okay. I’m capable of paying attention to multiple ongoing situations, two at the very least,” she revealed.

“That’s impressive.” Asterios whistled quietly. “Well, I simply wanted to know how you are doing. It’s been two months more or less.”

A delicate smile touched her lips. “I’m enjoying my time in your kingdom, My Lord. I was a bit lost initially, but your subjects and Mentor Phatru were very helpful, assisting me with getting comfortable. I even had a chance or two to experience the dungeon beneath your lands. It’s a fascinating… entity? It feels different from the others. More… aware?”

“You have sharp senses,” he complimented her. “Did you wander in alone or with a party?”

“I had the pleasure of being escorted by one of the adventuring teams led by Miss Rudy,” Visenna replied, glancing aside. “She is a good leader who understands the capabilities of her subordinates well.”

Asterios grinned out of her view. “Ah, yes, the two of us share some history, as I’m sure she has mentioned not just once. I think I’ve seen the two of you on the streets shortly after my return. I’m glad you were able to find friends in this new environment.”

The rosy splash was now apparent on her skin. “Yes… We found each other’s company… intriguing.”

“That’s nice to hear.” He chuckled cordially. “I hope the two of you can grow closer during your stay.”

Her focus switched back to him, her head tilted a tad as she watched him attentively.

“You… do?” Visenna wondered out loud. “And… How close exactly could we…?”

“Why, as close as your connection takes you, of course. Companions, comrades, friends, best friends, lovers. It’s all up to you and how well you go together.” Asterios shrugged. “Unless something troubles you. Like… any previous engagements.”

Immediately, her expression soured. “I… Mentor Phatru often reminds us that we shouldn’t be bound by our past mistakes but instead learn from them and move forward with new knowledge… I’m going to follow her advice as soon as I can… As long as you have nothing against it, My Lord?”

“Me?” Asterios pointed at himself. “Rudy is a great friend but I’m more than certain she doesn’t swing that way. And none of my mates are willing to humor the thought of having a lover on the side who isn’t equally as excited about being with me as with them. It’s rough for Rudy since she definitely had a crush or two on my ladies, so I would be happy to see her finally spread her wings with someone who shares her fancy.”

Visible relief washed over the young female, which only baffled Asterios more.

~This is your territory, my beloved disciple. They will consider every person living here your property, for the lack of a better word. Perhaps saying that you have the first picks sounds better. It would be a great offense to snatch someone away from under your nose without confirming that you truly won’t be wronged, seeking retaliation against both offenders,~ Althea whispered to him mentally.

~More draconic customs and politics.~ He sighed inwardly, earning himself a chuckle. ~Thanks.~

“Visenna,” he called to his companion, making her tense up. “I would like you to know that you are free to pursue anyone in my domain who isn’t officially taken by another. You have my blessing to seek your own happiness and closure. So, don’t hesitate anymore, okay?”

She gaped at him owlishly for a few seconds before jerking to her feet and bowing deeply. “Thank you for your generosity, My Lord. I will never forget this kindness.”

“Yes, yes, sit down before the others notice the scene.” Asterios smirked, watching a big smile form on her face. “If you want to leave and speak to your friend now, I won’t hold you back, but if you aren’t in a hurry…”

“If you have a request for me, My Lord, I’ll gladly hear it out,” Visenna responded politely, her previous grace mostly returning.

“Just wondering what you think about our teaching. You know, that whole bet with your former mentor and all,” he explained.

“Ah. That.” She sighed softly. “Honestly, it’s amazing. Jellal is definitely a knowledgeable individual, but experiencing Mentor Phatru’s views and fresh perspectives, and by proxy also Mentor Althea’s, is just so captivating. You can see how calm the disciples are. They’ve been like that every day. Let me tell you that it’s not easy for a mentor to hold attention during all of their lectures. Yet, it feels like there wasn’t a single boring or pointless discussion just for the sake of the teacher talking about their life.”

“So, we are on a good way to winning that wager?” He raised a hopeful brow at her.

Visenna let out a graceful laugh. “I think you have won two weeks in, even with Mentor Althea’s absence. But, unfortunately, it isn’t just up to me, if you recall. I’ve been in touch with Jellal through Rusi, and he is getting very agitated at the lack of opportunity to cross over.”

“Understandable. We took a while. I can bring him in as soon as you are willing to accompany his arrival,” Asterios said.

“Anytime, My Lord. It will be good to speak with him face-to-face. It might be easier to convey the results of my investigation into your methods that way than over a representative.” She nodded eagerly.

“And we’ll help too.” Rusilthea’s voice reached their ears and they looked forward.

The entire class had gotten up and gathered in front of them, including the mentoring pair.

“These guys can vouch for you as well.” Tina’s friendly Dragon familiar threw a thumb over her shoulder. “Isn’t that right? Aren’t you grateful for these lessons we’ve been getting?”

A chorus of confirmations echoed through the air, making Althea and Phatru smile appreciatively.

“Well, if you are finished for now, we can do that right away.” Asterios stood up, offering a hand to Visenna, who took it elegantly. “Try to fetch our doubtful mentor, Rusi, would you?”

“At once, My Lord.” She saluted to her chest with a laugh and jumped through her gate home.

The disciples followed her lead while Asterios unhurriedly carved a passage for Jellal’s ex-mate. It was becoming easier and easier for him every time. And the display mesmerized the onlookers just as much.

Ast’s party of four entered the breach and came out of it on the amphitheater’s stage in Nestmother Rhufija’s nest. It was empty, save for the group of students who had gone ahead of him. They exchanged a few words amongst themselves while waiting for the important guest.

Rusi brought Jellal about ten minutes later. The man was visibly in a hurry to arrive, flying rather carelessly in front of his guide. He almost crashed into the floor with his late transformation, stomping towards their group with a heavy frown.

Things were about to get interesting.