Though I adore all sorts of uniquely charming beauties, I’m not so blinded by lust that I’d lose my head.

I shook my head slightly, then turned to Wuluwu.

“Don’t forget—I’ve crossed blades with *her*. The one hailed as the Valkyrie…” I gave Wuluwu a faint, knowing smile. “By now, only Cecilia and I truly grasp how terrifying that tsundere cutie really is. Let me just say this: back then, she charged straight at me alone—just her and her sword. She wasn’t even twenty. And Thornrose hadn’t taken human form yet.”

“…”

Wuluwu froze for a moment, then bowed deeply.

“My deepest apologies, Dark Lord. I shouldn’t have questioned your judgment.”

“No harm done. Judging Lily by ordinary Sword Saint standards? You weren’t wrong. But stay by my side much longer clinging to mortal logic, and you’ll die fast. Still… you haven’t been with me long. Just be more careful next time.”

“…Not long?”

Wuluwu murmured under her breath, stealing a glance at Cecilia.

Silence settled.

“Hmm…”

I leaned back in my chair, eyes closed, savoring the quiet. After a moment, I opened them and beckoned to Wuluwu.

“Come here.”

The elf girl set her tray aside and obediently approached.

“Sit.”

Without hesitation, she hopped lightly onto my lap. My right arm wrapped around her, pulling the petite figure close. She nestled against my chest like a docile kitten, her small frame fitting perfectly against my larger one. I dipped my head, catching a hint of fragrance from her hair, feeling her warmth. My left hand gently stroked her white-stockinged thighs. A wave of contentment washed over me.

*I won’t do anything improper with her yet… but as a living pillow? Absolutely perfect.*

I breathed in her scent, smug satisfaction curling in my chest.

“By the way, Dark Lord,” Wuluwu spoke up, still resting in my arms. “You executed Castillia’s king and most nobles present that day—but that won’t cripple the kingdom. By now, they’ve surely rallied Champions against us. And with the Demon Emperor’s Summit of Overlords approaching… provoking the human empire now might weaken your standing at the gathering.”

“Hmph. Standing is won with fists. Let them try taping my mouth shut.” I snorted, then fell thoughtful. “But you’re right… I might’ve gone too far this time. Humans excel at starting wars under pretty excuses. Tch—I got carried away. Left too many loose ends. No doubt their Champions are already sharpening blades for my head. As for the others… heh. They’ve long wanted to shove this old man down a peg.”

“That’s why I said the price was steep, Dark Lord,” Wuluwu sighed. “You’ve handed humans a reason to march *and* drawn criticism from our own kind—especially from the current Demon Emperor. I recall she’s never favored you.”

“That little brat…” The title alone made my lip curl.

“The cost was worth it,” Cecilia interjected calmly. “Daenerys ranks among humanity’s top twenty Champions.”

“No—top ten,” I corrected with a grin. “Forcing the First Overlord, the Daytime Overlord himself, to retreat three centuries ago? That alone secures her place. Though…” My smile faded. “Tenth place is still just tenth place.” I trailed off, lost in thought.