Three heads nod. It’s good to see that at least they are all pretending to listen. Well, Blossom listens to everything I say, but whether she gets the gist of it or not is often up for debate.
“Then, in the coming month we have to maximize our leveling speed to achieve ideal results. However, before that, we have to decide what to do with Geim and the artifact. I’ve come to the conclusion that they create an ideal combination. The Geim needs time to grow in a hidden place and the artifact provides that exactly.
I think we should build our hidden stronghold in some very obscure place many hours of travel away from anything and everything, and exclusively use my Warp Gate to travel there. This way, no one can find out where our base of operations is located at, even if we are being tailed. We can do whatever we want there, without prying eyes.”
I can see Ayame’s gaze brighten up at the prospect. I love the sound of it too. Our own hidden home away from everyone. Safely guarded by traps and Geim once it grows, where we can enjoy life without glancing over our shoulders all the time, which might become a luxury now that we’ve robbed the kingdom blind.
“However, once we plant the Geim, I would rather not uproot it, so we have to be very careful with our location of choice. It will require some serious planning.”
“I agree. We will have to think about it for a bit, so let’s focus on the trials for now. Geim will grow in its pot for a few months anyways.” Ayame voices her thoughts.
“Blossom can look for ideal places in the forest!” My dog-kin adds cheerily.
Indeed, she will be very important in finalizing the location with her amazing nose. I don’t want to build next to a dragon’s nest or something.
“Thank you. Now then, lastly, we have to discuss what to do with Lucille.” I inform them.
Ayame scoffs, “what about her? She will easily find some level 10 adventurer who happily agrees to be her new husband with her looks.” Then she grins at me victoriously, “but that’s not what you want to hear, huh? You want her for yourself.”
I smile wryly while shaking my head… this girl…
“I wouldn’t go that far, but it’s true that she earned my interest.”
“She is a middle-aged woman, a level 1 civilian, who worked her entire adult life as an innkeeper’s wife. She doesn’t fit into your life at all. You have high aspirations, incredibly so, while she just wants to feel protected. You are a horrible match if you ask me.”
“Yeah, I also thought about it. As she is, she isn’t worth my attention at all, but I believe I saw something in her that alludes to there being more than meets the eye. I plan to provide her with a challenge soon that will decide a few things.” Then I glance at Ayame. “I would like to speak with Aurora in private, can you take Blossom for a walk?”
Blossom jumps to her feet instantly and looks at me hurtfully. “Master!!! Blossom is still not a dog!”
Ayame pushes her chair back as well, then speaks up nonchalantly, “come, Blossom, you can buy Quinlan a present or something.”
“Oh! Okay!” And her distress had disappeared just as so, replaced by rapid tail wagging. “But what should Blossom buy???” She inquires while following Ayame out of the room.
It’s just me and the platinum haired girl melting away in my lap remaining.
“So, have you thought about your answer?” I ask.
She nods while hugging me even tighter. “I want to be with you forever and ever, not as a simple teammate but as your devoted lover.”
I embrace her back, “and I would like to be your man forever and ever. Aurora, you are my second official woman.” I state firmly.
She looks up at me as if a giant weight had been lifted off of her shoulders. “I’m so glad!” She shouts then dives in for a kiss. I replicate her motions, and this time we don’t stop at a simple peck on the lips, but instead I invade her mouth with my tongue, where we enjoy each other’s warm company for minute after minute. freёwebnovel.com
I finally detached after a good five minutes had passed. She looks up at me with eyes full of affection, reminiscent of Blossom’s gaze. There’s no doubt, she’s head over heels for me.
“Quinlan… I’m sorry to be such a boorish woman, but can we wait a few days until we take the next steps…? My heart is not yet ready…”
“Naturally. There are two topics I wanted to discuss with you privately before we take the next step as well. First, what’s with your daddy’s little girl behavior? I honestly find it very hot, and I would love to roleplay sometimes, but considering that your father was just taken it is making me a bit uncomfortable.”
She instantly tears up at their mention, “do you think they…?”
“No. If I were the king or noble responsible for your parents, I would just force slavery magic onto them, shove them into my basement and have them cook whatever I need for free. If they are half as talented as you, they are far too valuable to be killed.”
“They are better than me, both of them… but what you are saying might not even be better than death itself…”
“It’s an ugly situation for sure, but there’s hope. You are part of a party who are on a rapid rise like a tsunami and aren’t fans of the kingdom or its nobility. There’s a chance you might be able to rescue them with our help.”
Aurora wipes her tears. “You are right… We have to grow strong and save them!” She then looks up at me sheepishly, “as for your question, no, I don’t want you to replace my father. I… it’s very embarrassing to admit… promise you won’t laugh?”
“Sure.” I reply seriously.
She takes a deep breath, collecting her thoughts- and bravery- and begins.