“Seems we’ve got quite a few uninvited guests tonight~”

Ophelia rose, her voice sharp as ice. *Why do they always pick the worst moment to bother me?!*

A throb pulsed at her temples. If this wasn’t urgent, she’d…!

A cold glint flashed in her eyes. She draped her signature gray cloak over her shoulders and stepped out.

Before leaving, she reminded Nefu to stay inside and not wander—treating her like a mischievous little kitten.

Silence settled once more. Honestly, Nefu felt a flicker of gratitude. These interruptions always saved her from tight spots.

Sitting on the bed, she swung her smooth bare legs lightly, closed her eyes as if pondering, then opened them. A trace of surprise crossed her exquisite face. *Tonight’s visitors feel… different. Might give Ophelia a real headache.*

Outside, Ophelia hadn’t waited politely by the door. Perched atop the chimney, she lazily crossed her legs—utterly unconcerned.

Soon, tiny black dots appeared down the street. She glanced once and let out a soft chuckle.

So blatant. Broadcasting their aura from afar, as if scared she’d miss them.

Still, straightforward enough—locked on her location and came straight here.

Perfect. She could handle them all at once.

She stood, stretching lightly.

“Ouch, neck’s stiff… Maybe my little cutie can massage it later?” she murmured, unaware shadows had already gathered below.

“Ophelia,” a voice called, “is *this* your idea of hospitality?”

The speaker was an old man in black robes and hood. His eyes gleamed sharp, yet hatred bled plainly toward her.

*This woman* toppled his guild to third place! Unforgivable!

“Oh, Guild Master Oliver,” Ophelia replied with her trademark smile—though her eyes held not a hint of warmth, only frost. “What brings you here so late? I thought you despised little ol’ me?”

“Ophelia, is this the place for serious talk?” Oliver, Guild Master of the Black Serpent Guild, let out a crooked chuckle and gestured at the house. “Why not step inside? I’d love to meet the Valkyrie Guild Master’s… little pet.”

A chill swept through the Black Serpent officers nearby. The air had dropped several degrees.

“Guild Master Oliver,” Ophelia warned sweetly, “I’d advise you not to meddle… or else.”

Without warning, ice spears materialized midair and shot straight at him.

Oliver froze—*She attacked over a casual remark?!*

“You—!”

Magic flared. He dissolved into shadow, reappearing behind her. But the moment his form solidified, fiery tornadoes erupted beneath his feet.

“Ophelia, have you gone mad?!” he roared from a nearby tree, robes singed, frost clinging to his hood.

“My apologies, Guild Master~” Ophelia covered her mouth, giggling. “Just a joke. Didn’t expect your strength to be… lacking.”

Her laughter made his blood boil.

“Don’t think I fear you! When I get serious—”

“That’s enough, Mr. Oliver. We’re not here to duel.”

A golden-haired woman in white armor stepped forward. Guild insignia marked her as Adventurers Guild. Her calm words quelled Oliver’s rage. He huffed down, arms crossed, glaring venomously.

“A Paladin? So old man Abbas finally sent *you*?” Ophelia blinked in genuine surprise.

“Yes. Mr. Abbas requests your cooperation for another inspection. We must locate that phantom soon.”

(Nefu’s prior feeding left zero traces—no species, no form. Investigators simply called her “the phantom.”)

“Fine, fine.” Ophelia waved dismissively, vexed. *Abbas pairing me with Black Serpent scum? Did he find something?*

Just as she prepared to telepathically warn Nefu—

“Guild Master Ophelia, may the young lady inside please come out?”

“Absolutely not!” Ophelia shook her head like a rattle drum. Non-negotiable.

The Paladin’s saintly face twisted into a mischievous smirk.

“If you refuse… I’ll have to report this truthfully to the Valkyrie Guild sisters.”

“Uh… no.” Ophelia’s smile turned wry. “You can’t do that.”

If they learned she’d secretly bought a little maidservant? Endless nagging. Headache guaranteed.

Pouting, she sighed. “Fine. Wait here.”

The door opened. Nefu stood tidy, having heard every word.

“Let’s go.”

Nefu trailed behind, clutching Ophelia’s cloak hem—timid as a frightened kitten.

(All an act. This harmless facade was just to uncover their motive.)

The Paladin knelt with a gentle smile. “Don’t be afraid.”

She glanced at Nefu’s handback, gave a slight nod.

“All clear. We’ll go. I’ll explain why we’re examining this little one on the way.” She waved Ophelia over.

Ophelia hesitated, glancing back at obedient Nefu. “But who’ll protect her?”

“I’ll assign guards.” The Paladin signaled. Two adventurers stepped forth—warrior and mage, Black Serpent Guild attire.

“Solid team, right?”

Ophelia still wavered—until Nefu sent her a reassuring smile.

“Alright.”

What Ophelia didn’t know: Nefu’s murderous intent simmered just beneath the surface.

*Another midnight snack delivered to my door…*

*No need to be polite. I’ll devour them all.*