Hawthorn was right. I am quite skilled at discerning people's hearts, but to be precise, I’m even better at seeing through girls’ minds.

Lily’s mindset was actually quite conservative. After I took her virginity, she had resigned herself to fate—but back then, she probably only thought of Wuluwu, Ona, and herself. She never imagined I also had Aerin.

Her fantasy shattered instantly. She might have feared being discarded after just one night with me—after all, she’d already been abandoned by her own country once. This time, no matter what, she didn’t want to be tossed aside like a toy I’d grown tired of.

That’s why she looked so shocked when she saw Aerin and all those maids.

That was exactly her worry.

But do I seem like someone who abandons women after seducing them? Impossible!

“Such a big reaction means I hit the mark.”

I gazed calmly at Lily before me, smiled slightly, and said it outright.

“…”

Lily stood there awkwardly, her face flushed with embarrassment and shyness, hands tightly clutching her maid dress. Then, after her lips twitched slightly, she immediately sat back down.

“The Dark Lord truly doesn’t abandon women after seducing them.”

Wuluwu continued sipping her tea and added, “At least, in all my time serving him, unless a maid commits a grave mistake, he’s always been tolerant and caring.”

“I can vouch for that too.”

Cecilia, nearby, bowed slightly as she spoke. Lily lightly slapped her own mouth in response, her tail swaying back and forth behind her—clearly conflicted.

“But why has the Dark Lord suddenly become a different person?” Ona interjected, smoothly shifting the topic away from Lily. “If I hadn’t sensed your scent myself, I’d think you were someone else.”

“Ah, that’s another matter entirely.” I shrugged. “But about my issues—you needn’t worry. It’s unnecessary.”

Ona raised an eyebrow, instantly grasping I didn’t want to delve deeper.

“By the way, Dark Lord,” Wuluwu turned to me, “how’s the next itinerary arranged? The conference is in a week…”

“Conference? What conference?” Lily tilted her head.

“The Demon Race’s summit.” I waved a hand. “All Overlords will gather in the Imperial Capital—barring war or illness—to meet the Demon Emperor and decide our race’s future.”

“You’re taking us, aren’t you?” Ona asked eagerly.

“Of course.” I grinned. “Overlords always bring attendants and guards. There’s occasional sparring and taunting between us… but since we can’t fight directly, attendants handle those matters.” I ruffled Wuluwu’s hair. “Wuluwu, you’re coming—you’re vital. Lily, Ona, Hawthorn: for the next week, you’ll train under Cecilia. Pass etiquette, and you join me. I won’t lose face.”

“Tch, we won’t embarrass you!” Lily stuck out her tongue. “Anyone who mocks me, I’ll smash their head in!”

“Mhm~ I wholeheartedly agree with Lily~” Ona cheered, raising her hand.

“So I stay behind?” Cecilia asked.

“Yes. Stay, to prevent trouble while I’m away—” I paused, then nodded.

“Just the four of us?” Hawthorn frowned. “Isn’t that too few?”

“Enough.” I spread my hands. “Aren’t five of us sufficient? Even if Overlords dislike each other, we won’t fight. Five is plenty—and more would strain my food budget. Prices in the Imperial Capital aren’t cheap.”

“Huh? We pay for our own meals?” Lily gaped.

“Silly. I’m taking you to play.” I smiled. “It’s the Demon Race’s Imperial Capital—the most prosperous city. The conference lasts one to two weeks, but there’s downtime. We’ll explore the city when free. Most girls under me have been; only you three haven’t. My Demon King Castle is grand, but it pales beside the Capital… Don’t you want to see it properly?”

“Go! Of course! I really want to!” Ona bounced with energy. Lily and Hawthorn exchanged glances, then silently nodded.

“Perfect, unanimous agreement~ Starting tomorrow, you three work hard under Cecilia’s training.”

“No problem~ I learn quickly!”

“I hope so,” Cecilia replied dryly to Ona’s enthusiasm.

“Darling~ I’m back!”

Aerin’s voice came from behind. I turned to see her returning with a new box of tea leaves and a teapot, Elan Elur flanking her on both sides as they approached us.