Chapter 169: Morning in Helion(2)
Chapter 169: Morning in Helion(2)
Cecile and I went at it like crazy right up until lunch. To be honest, that word she let slip—'Master'—was more than enough to reignite a dying ember.
I was certain she did it on purpose just to provoke me. Of that, I had no doubt.
Having engaged in such intense exercise for over twelve hours, I should have been exhausted, but thanks to Mora’s divine power, I didn't feel physically drained. However, divine power couldn't suppress basic biological needs; I was ravenously hungry and parched.
Fortunately, Cecile was satisfied enough that she didn't feel like continuing, so we finally brought things to a close. Afterward, we tenderly washed each other in the bathroom and stepped out wearing only bathrobes.
When we emerged, the maids had already arrived in the bedroom and were busy tidying up the bedsheets and the surrounding area. The sheets were in such a state that they couldn't be reused; they practically needed to be incinerated.
I stared fixedly at the sheets, which were a mess of various bodily fluids, before asking Cecile, "Noona, can you clean something like that with magic?"
"I could, but why bother? Even with magic, the icky feeling remains. It's easier to just replace them with new ones."
Cecile answered, then continued with a smile that carried many meanings.
"Besides, they're going to get dirty all throughout the break anyway, so is there really a need to make them pristine with magic? I don't think so."
"...I suppose you're right."
"Anyway, they really are filthy. I can't believe most of that came out of my body."
She looked at the soiled sheets with an expression of fascination rather than shame. Throughout the night, Cecile had unhesitatingly spat out all sorts of lewd remarks, comparing herself to a dessert or begging me to ruin her.
By the end, she had even cast aside any sense of shame or embarrassment, going so far as to call me 'Master.'
Even Mari had been as shy as a new bride before her libido truly awakened, but Cecile had none of that. Now that Mari's desires had been stirred, I was seriously worried about whether I’d eventually have to handle both of them at once.
I glanced at her horns, which had completely returned to their black color, and asked in a cautious voice. The maids who had been tidying the room had already left.
"Noona, I'm asking out of curiosity... do we only go this long during the Demon Cycle? Or is it always like this?"
"Hmm... I wonder? From what I heard from my mother, the Demon Cycle is when desire—specifically sexual desire—is at its strongest. Otherwise, it varies from person to person. Just like it does with humans."
"Then what about you?"
"I'm already head over heels for you, so I'm not sure~ I might end up fighting with Mari a lot after the break?"
Cecile replied in her characteristic playful tone. Seeing the mischievous smirk on her face, it seemed the future was already written.
I felt like I might need to visit the Temple frequently. However, I was a bit conflicted, as I didn't know how Luminous's divine power would affect Cecile.
I crossed my arms as she clung to me lovingly, and I stroked her horns. As I showed her affection, Cecile beamed and basked in the happiness.
"Noona, does Lord Luminous's divine power have a negative effect on Demons?"
"Huh? No. It's much less efficient than Lady Mora's, but our origins are still human. If we were closer to actual devils, even Lady Mora's divine power would be harmful. Why do you ask?"
"Actually, Lady Mora gave me some divine power yesterday evening. It felt like she was helping me stay energized while also passing some of it to you."
"Really? No wonder I kept feeling energized even when I thought I was about to collapse. So that was why. I guess the reason I feel 'full' isn't the divine power, but the Succubus blood, right? I feel like my mana has increased more than before, too."
As Cecile spoke while gently rubbing her lower belly, I couldn't help but give a bitter smile. Perhaps because we had been at it for twelve hours, her lower abdomen was slightly distended.
While one person was thirsty and hungry, the other was full and had even gained mana. On top of that, seeing her skin practically glowing, she was a Succubus through and through.
I definitely need to visit Lady Mora before I do it with Cecile.
If not that, I’d have to build up enough stamina to last twelve hours. The thought of receiving knight training from my father again suddenly crossed my mind.
I wasn't just saying that; it was a pretty good option. I now had to deal with not just Mari, but Cecile as well. If the two of them refused to yield to each other, there was a possibility I’d have to face them both at the same time.
Increasing my stamina might become a necessity, not a choice. Since I couldn't rely on divine power forever, I shouldn't delay it any longer.
Polygamy isn't all sunshine and rainbows.
Of course, I didn't mean it was bad, just that it wasn't easy. Since both Mari and Cecile had reached a compromise, I would be able to lead a life of unparalleled happiness.
Afterward, the two of us changed into casual clothes instead of bathrobes to have brunch. The maid had already prepared clothes of the right size while replacing the bedsheets.
Cecile wore an off-the-shoulder dress like yesterday, but it covered her chest completely, leaving only her shoulders and collarbones exposed. I wore a plain black suit. Still, being made in Helium, the comfort was top-notch.
While we were changing, our naked bodies were fully exposed, which stimulated Cecile's desire and almost led to a second round, but I flatly refused.
The effects of the contraceptive magic had worn off, and since I couldn't predict how much more we would do in the future, I had to conserve my energy. Considering the oracle (?) Luminous had given me, it was best to hold back until Cecile's fertile period was definitely over.
"Is there anything you want to eat? I'll let them know in advance."
"I'll eat anything. I'm thirsty, too."
I then made my way to the dining area with Cecile. She told me that thanks to her communicating the situation via telepathy, the meal was already prepared.
The meals served in the Helium Palace consisted of ordinary food, unlike the street food. Things like steak, or simple steamed chicken dishes, and so on.
The use of pungent spices suited my palate perfectly. Apparently, they had enjoyed using spicy seasonings for the purpose of mental discipline since ancient times.
In the past, they ate spicy food for spiritual training, but now it was merely a culinary preference.
"Are you awake? Come, sit down."
When we entered the dining room, Aisilia was already seated at the end of the characteristically long table. However, Descal was nowhere to be seen.
As I wondered about his absence, Aisilia read my expression and answered immediately.
"He's away for a moment on business. He has a massive backlog of work due to recent diplomacy. He barely managed to make time yesterday, too."
"Ah, I see."
Indeed, Helium was currently very busy with diplomacy with neighboring countries. Naturally, the top leader, the King, and the officials under him would find themselves wishing they had two bodies.
I took my seat after hearing the reason for Descal's absence. Naturally, Cecile sat demurely beside me.
The food already prepared on the table was a steak glazed in a reddish sauce. Based on the color alone, it looked like it would be spicy, and indeed, it boasted a piquant flavor. It was one of the spices that Helium had consistently developed since its founding.
It was a perfect fit for my tastes as a former Korean, so I felt like I would be eating this often during my stay in Helium.
"So, did you enjoy the dessert I prepared yesterday?"
"......"
Just as I was preparing my napkin and about to pick up my utensils, Aisilia asked in a suggestive voice. I flinched for a moment before slowly turning my gaze to look at her.
Aisilia was waiting for my answer with an inscrutable smile. Until yesterday, she had used the respectful title 'Lord Isaac,' but seeing how she spoke more casually now, it seemed she had begun to treat me as her son-in-law starting today.
When I was at a loss for how to respond to that smile, it was Cecile who saved me from the situation.
"Honestly, Mother. What kind of question is that? You can tell just by looking at when we woke up."
"Oh, hush. Can't a mother take a little credit? Do you know how much trouble your father and I went through to prepare that dessert?"
"Isaac is getting embarrassed. Stop teasing him."
"Hmph. This is why they say there's no point in raising a daughter."
At Cecile's scolding, Aisilia grumbled with a pouting expression. I felt like they were bickering because of me, so I thought it best to offer some comfort.
"Don't worry. I enjoyed it very much. It was one of the best desserts of my life."
"Oh my. Really? I'm glad to hear that. Since you said 'one of,' I assume the other was prepared by the Rekilis family?"
"...Yes."
Having said it, I felt a wave of embarrassment. Still, seeing Aisilia smile elegantly, it seemed she was appeased.
"May I ask how Rekilis decorated their dessert? For your information, I decorated yesterday's myself."
"......"
"...Mother."
I was left speechless by the following question, but fortunately, Cecile called out to her in a chilling voice, putting an end to the questioning.
Aisilia also seemed to realize she had overstepped, as she bowed her head slightly in apology. It was clear she couldn't help but be excited now that the benefactor of the Demons had become her son-in-law.
The atmosphere became a bit awkward because of this, but I quickly cleared the air by speaking first.
"Ahem. By the way, what is the name of this dish? The sauce seems a bit different from yesterday's."
"Ah, a good question. My son-in-law, have you ever heard of a monster called a Ringkel?"
"A Ringkel... I've heard it's a bull wreathed in flames. I believe they mainly live in volcanic regions."
"And because it's filled with the energy of fire, it contains nutrients that are particularly good for men."
"......"
"The vegetable next to it that looks like broccoli is similar. It looks like broccoli, but it's a vegetable called Cadid. This is also good for men."
She went on to mention how the ingredients in the soup were good for stamina, and how the dessert would also contain things good for stamina, and so on. Aisilia, in her own way, was working hard to support the further development of my relationship with Cecile.
Cecile was displeased at first, but after realizing it was also a benefit (?) for her, she said nothing. In fact, she even gave some of hers to me, saying she was full.
I, too, though embarrassed, did not refuse. There was no reason to reject something so kindly prepared for my well-being, and it was essentially a great help.
Since I couldn't rely on Mora's divine power forever, I had to start consuming things beneficial to my body now to ensure a comfortable future. Most importantly, every single dish hit the mark for my taste buds, so I could eat them without hesitation.
"Thank you. I feel like I'm already gaining strength thanks to this."
"Don't mention it. The grace you've shown our people can't be repaid in a lifetime. If you wish, you could even become the Royal Son-in-Law. What do you think?"
'Buma'—the Royal Son-in-Law—was a term referring to the King's son-in-law, the husband of a princess. Technically, I was already a son-in-law, but what Aisilia was suggesting was for me to leave the Minerva Empire and settle in Helium.
That would naturally mean being separated from Mari, which I didn't want. That wasn't just crossing a line; it would be a cold-hearted betrayal of Mari.
I felt sorry for Cecile, but it was right to politely decline the position of Royal Son-in-Law.
"I'm sorry. As you know, Mother-in-law, the matter has already been decided."
"That's right, Mother. I'm happy just being Isaac's woman, so there's no need for that."
"Hmm. If you say so, then so be it. But do visit Helium from time to time. If you wish, I can even have a teleportation magic circle installed at your mansion."
"That would be nice, but I think it would be much better for me to visit in person. After all, it'll be hundreds of years before I inherit the throne anyway."
"That would work. However, since it might be difficult for my son-in-law, make sure to set appointments in advance. If it's really not feasible, I'll have to take measures so you can contact each other."
The mother and daughter chatted excitedly about me. Since Aisilia was young, as befitting a Demon, they looked like a pair of close twin sisters hanging out.
Even if I wanted to join in, the topic had shifted to magic, so I just let it go in one ear and out the other. It was hard to jump in when technical terms I didn't understand were being tossed around.
I gathered that they were looking for a means of two-way communication. I’ll just drink the tea that came out for dessert.
Aisilia had mentioned that this was also good for stamina, and it tasted similar to green tea. It felt like it was clearing my sinuses; it would be perfect for someone with rhinitis.
"Ah, speaking of which, son-in-law."
"Yes?"
"You said you sent the manuscript for Volume 14 to the publisher, right?"
Aisilia questioned me while I was silently sipping my tea. It was about Volume 14, which was due to be released soon.
I was a bit taken aback by the sudden mention of Xenon's Biography, but I answered the question first.
"Yes. It'll be out soon."
"About when?"
"I don't know the exact details, but I believe the first edition is usually issued three to four days after the manuscript is sent."
"I see. Then I should send Sir Balak soon."
It seemed she intended to purchase it as soon as the first edition came out. The publisher does announce the release schedule, but it takes time for the news to reach Helium.
Still, Helium's situation could be considered better than most. After humans, the race that showed the most purchasing power was the Demons.
From what I heard from Cecile, even when the perception of Demons was poor, there were merchant groups that traveled to and from Helium, and they had obtained Xenon's Biography through those groups.
No matter how much Helium was stigmatized as a land where devils lived, there were always people in the world willing to risk their lives for money.
And those people realized early on that Demons were not much different from ordinary people, and they remain reliable contractors to this day.
"By the way, Mother. What happened to Sir Balak?"
"That? I've had it confiscated for now. There's nothing wrong with the signed copy itself, but the problem is that he didn't report it. I'll decide whether to return it or not based on his future conduct. Oh, if my son-in-law wishes, I can return it immediately."
"......"
Poor Gartz. My eyes welled up at the thought of him being grilled over a single signed copy.
I imagined that stoic face contorted with sadness and gloom, and spoke quietly with pity.
"...I think it would be best to just give it back to him."
The morning in Helium passed like any other ordinary day.
"You went to the temple, didn't you? How are you going to tease me today?"
"...Wasn't the Demon Cycle over?"
"Even if the Demon Cycle is over, my body is already addicted to Isaac. I think I understand why Mari is like that."
Though it wasn't night.
I had a strong feeling that this would be a memorable vacation in many ways.
While Isaac was spending a hot vacation with Cecile in Helium, the release of Volume 14 of Xenon's Biography was just a day away.
At the news of the long-awaited new volume, fans were already waiting in front of bookstores, and some even hired people to stand in line for them.
Originally, Xenon's Biography had been restricted to one copy per person, but that rule was scrapped after new technology was introduced at the printing press.
The reason for the one-copy-per-person rule was that Xenon's Biography frequently sold out, leaving many people unable to buy it. Now that there was no need for hoarding, an official notice had been issued.
Some high-ranking nobles even paid extra to secretly receive first editions from the publisher. And merchant groups that traveled the world also signed contracts to sell Xenon's Biography in other countries for large sums of money.
Because of this, unless one purchased it directly, it took time for Xenon's Biography to appear in countries other than the Minerva Empire. For the record, the country geographically furthest from the Minerva Empire was the land of the Elves, Albenheim.
Thanks to Arwen's speech, Albenheim had successfully managed the social issue of the half-blood incident and was entering a period of stability. Furthermore, since even the pollution of the World Tree's roots had been prevented, there were virtually no problems.
What had changed was that interest in Xenon's Biography had increased significantly, and furthermore, feelings toward Xenon had shifted. Having saved the World Tree, a gift from the gods, it was only natural to feel a sense of gratitude.
Because of this, some argued that they should find Xenon to repay the favor, while others insisted he must be a prophet, giving Arwen a headache, but this too eventually blew over.
"...Therefore, I believe we should further relax the criteria for immigration inspection."
"Hmm."
Inside the Audience Chamber of Albenheim, which was set up for receiving reports rather than business. Arwen was seated on her throne, receiving a report from the immigration inspector, Keir.
Even if they weren't part of the Elder Council, those in charge of important duties had to enter the Audience Chamber to report. The supervisor of immigration inspectors, Keir, was no exception.
He was currently reporting on Albenheim's extremely strict immigration inspection criteria and requesting their relaxation.
"I understand your request. It would be wise to consider relaxing the inspection criteria. However, it seems it will take some time."
"Is it because of the customs issue?"
"Yes. Relaxing immigration inspections means that various races may come and go. Not only that, but the same applies to organizations. I will have to hold a separate meeting with the Elder Council about this."
"Those old fogies are bound to refuse..."
Keir grumbled at the mention of a meeting with the Elder Council. It was typical of Keir, who was uncharacteristically blunt for an Elf, even in front of the Queen.
Arwen only gave a bitter smile, knowing how great Keir's dissatisfaction with the Elder Council was. The reason he had stepped down from the front lines to become an immigration inspection supervisor was also because of the Elder Council.
"Even so, it is not something I can proceed with alone. I am well aware that you dislike the Elder Council. However, I hope you can distinguish between public and private matters."
"Sigh... I understand. I have no choice but to trust you, Your Majesty."
"That aside... can you tell me the current status of former Warlord Iker?"
Arwen asked about the whereabouts of Iker, the former Warlord of Albenheim and Keir's former superior. A tragic hero who had almost saved Albenheim from defeat during the Race War, only to be imprisoned due to the Elder Council's incompetence.
Betrayed by the motherland he trusted, he had been living in seclusion, not leaving his home even after the Race War ended.
However, recently he had been making occasional appearances or training in his private training ground. He was showing intermittent signs of wanting to return, drawing attention in many ways.
"As for Lord Iker... I'm not sure. I don't know if it's really because of that book or if there's another reason... Anyway, if Lord Iker returns, I would certainly welcome it. I don't know how the Elder Council will react, though."
"A person's heart changes for many reasons. Still, I am glad it seems to be a good omen."
Unless there is a special reason, Elves stay in one profession for their entire lives. The same goes for soldiers.
In particular, an Elf who becomes a warrior will stay in the military until the end, unless they suffer a severe injury. Iker, who was disillusioned after being betrayed by the Elder Council, was a special case.
Because of this, an Elf's visible strength is essentially everything. There are few experts who retire to spend the rest of their lives like humans or Beastkin.
This, too, must be thanks to Xenon's Biography.
Anyone with even a slight interest in history would know. The Elven hero appearing in Xenon's Biography was modeled after Iker.
That hero was betrayed by his country in the past, but he realizes that what he is protecting is not the high-ranking officials, but the nation itself, and stands against the demons. In the process, he meets the Dark Elves and joins forces with them.
To an outsider, it might have seemed like a common trope, but for someone who knew Iker well, it was a different story. In reality, Iker had only gone into seclusion out of disillusionment with the Elder Council; his affection for Albenheim remained unchanged.
Everyone agreed that if a Demon War had actually broken out, Iker would have taken the same course of action.
Is Isaac truly a prophet?
Arwen once again recalled the contents of Xenon's Biography, which she could never easily dismiss. She had been thinking about it deeply ever since she heard from the Elder Council last time, and Xenon's Biography truly felt like a book of prophecy.
To be honest, it had to be seen as nearly impossible for 'coincidences' like the pollution of the World Tree's roots, demon summoning, and the Reaper to occur in succession. Hadn't Luminous said that even if it is a coincidence now, it is an inevitability in the future?
Whether there was some "restriction" involved, as many had suggested, Arwen could not simply brush the matter aside. Moreover, as the Elder Council had pointed out, Isaac was currently showing her an immense amount of favor.
Her reason told her no, that Isaac was simply a kind-hearted soul, but her intuition screamed otherwise—that all of this was a story of things that had truly, actually almost come to pass.
If that were the case, then really...
Boom!
Just before Arwen could sink deeper into her private delusions, the firmly closed doors of the audience chamber were thrown open with violence. Both Arwen and Keir jumped in surprise, their gazes snapping toward the entrance.
Marching through the doorway was Piren, a Council Member of the Elder Council, his expression set in a rigid mask. He was alone, without a single one of the fellow members who usually accompanied him.
No matter how much of a cancer the Elder Council was, they usually observed basic etiquette. They did not throw doors open—especially the doors to the Queen’s audience chamber—with such a thunderous racket.
Normally, Arwen would have rebuked him sternly for such insolence, but realizing his expression was far from ordinary, she remained silent and waited.
"...My word. Have you finally decided to just throw caution to the wind?"
"Shut your mouth and get out. I have urgent matters to discuss with Her Majesty."
Even when Keir asked in a mocking tone, Piren spat out a harsh dismissal, using the kind of coarse language he rarely let pass his lips. Keir’s eyes widened in genuine surprise.
Piren usually maintained a refined manner of speech, but not a trace of that composure remained. It was a sign of just how grave the situation was.
Furthermore, seeing as he had come to find the Queen alone without his fellow councilors, it surely had something to do with her. Keir glanced at Arwen’s face, looking startled.
Arwen, also sensing the gravity of Piren’s erratic behavior, refrained from reprimanding him. After locking eyes with Keir, she gave a quiet command.
"It would be best to continue our talk later. You may leave."
"...Yes. Understood."
Keir bowed politely, shot Piren a lingering look, and then made his way out of the audience chamber. Soon, only Arwen, seated upon her throne, and Piren, standing before her, remained.
Arwen stared intently at Piren’s stiff, frozen features before speaking in a low voice.
"Council Member Piren. Given that you’ve resorted to such rudeness to get here, I assume this is important?"
"...Your Majesty. If I may, I have one question to ask first."
Despite the Queen having questioned him first, Piren pushed his own inquiry forward. For a moment, the skin beneath Arwen’s eyes twitched, but then she noticed something clutched in his hand.
Judging by its rectangular shape and slight thickness, it appeared to be a book. Just as Arwen’s curiosity piqued again, Piren threw out a strange question.
"Does Your Majesty... truly have no connection to Xenon?"
"...What sort of nonsense is this? I have already told you plainly that I have none."
"Then please, look at this. This is Volume 14 of Xenon Biography, recently released in the Minerva Empire."
Just as Arwen had suspected, the object in Piren’s hand was a book—specifically, Volume 14 of Xenon Biography. She wondered for a moment how he had obtained a new release that hadn't even reached Albenheim yet, but the answer came to her quickly.
He had recently sent people to the publisher to track down Xenon independently. He must have obtained the book through those agents.
Meanwhile, Piren used magic to levitate the book and send it drifting toward Arwen. Though suspicious at first, she accepted it without a word.
The book Piren had delivered was indeed Volume 14 of Xenon Biography. From the new cover art to the "Volume 14" printed clearly on the spine, there was no mistaking it.
"You may start reading from page 100. Or, if you wish, you may read it from the beginning; it makes no difference."
"Before that, I find myself questioning why you are telling me to read this. State your reason first. That is an order."
Even in this situation, Arwen had no intention of surrendering the initiative. No matter how urgent the matter, basic protocols had to be observed.
Piren, well aware of this, nodded and spoke in a flat, hollow voice.
"Because that book contains forbidden magic."
