“The resurrection of the Dark Sorceress, the world drowning in darkness and fear—how delightfully it sounds.”

Little Dragoness sank into a manic state. It was hard to imagine her adorable face twisted into such an expression.

After hearing Little Dragoness’s vivid description, Morningstar did feel a flicker of urge—but not enough to immediately conquer and destroy the world.

“Master, the very essence of the Dark Sorceress is darkness and ruin. Sooner or later, your soul will return to its true nature.”

Seeing her Master unmoved, Little Dragoness gently coaxed her.

“Let’s set that aside. Last night, I had an incredibly vivid dream. Someone called my name. I followed the voice, found her surrounded by knights—and killed them all.”

Morningstar recounted the dream. Little Dragoness’s heart leaped with excitement, though her face stayed calm. “Perhaps… just an ordinary dream.”

She now understood: the Dark Sorceress’s shadow self surfaced when her will weakened or rage flared. Anger was clear—but “weak will”? Likely sleep. In slumber, the mind relaxed; remnants of kindness no longer resisted the Sorceress’s instincts. Hence the dream.

That voice? Probably a believer’s prayer. As sovereign of darkness, the Dark Sorceress heard those who yearned for shadow. Offer a price, and she’d grant their wish.

Little Dragoness kept this truth hidden. The more the darkness took hold, the weaker Morningstar’s humanity grew—until nothing remained.

“Still… it felt so real.”

“Perhaps your body’s influence. How did the dream make you feel, Master?”

“The feeling…” Morningstar hesitated. “Honestly? Amazing. And after killing those knights… I even wanted to do something wicked to that girl.”

She stared at her palms, savoring the memory—unaware a faint, strange smile curled her lips.

*Hehehe… Now this is my Master~* Little Dragoness nodded, warmth blooming in her chest. *She’s coming back.*

“How is the Holy Maiden?”

“Lying there. Silent.”

“Take me to her.”

“Yes, Master.”

Freya, the Holy Maiden, looked even more haggard. Though Morningstar had stopped yesterday, traces of darkness had seeped into her.

“Demon… what do you want now?”

“I’ve decided. Since you refuse to leave, you’ll stay—and serve me as my handmaiden.”

“Demon, you think—”

*Shh.* Morningstar’s slender finger pressed Freya’s lips. “No rushing~ Think carefully. I’m heading to the human realm next. Disobey me? Harm me? I’ll kill one person… no, ten. Or… slaughter an entire city. How’s that sound?”

Morningstar spoke lightly. Freya fell silent.

She feared no insult—but as Holy Maiden of the Divine Clan, she couldn’t let innocents die for her pride.

“Understand the stakes?” Morningstar smiled faintly. *Why did I ever consider apologizing to this sharp-tongued girl? I’m the strong one. She should be kneeling.* The thought sent a thrill through her.

“Shall I demonstrate? Fetch someone… gut them right before your eyes?”

“N-no! Please, no!”

“Mmm~ Perfect reaction.”

Honestly, Morningstar felt clearer after sleep. Those messy, sentimental thoughts? Gone.

*The old me would never manipulate her like this. But now? It feels… right.*

*Served her right for insulting me. Just a little payback.*

“I’ll obey… but swear you won’t kill wantonly! Or force me to harm the world!”

“Mmm~ I won’t kill the innocent… unnecessarily.”

“You embody deceit. How can I trust you?”

“You have no choice.”

“I… I understand.” Humiliation burned in Freya—but she had no power to resist.

“Hahahaha… So simple! Yesterday’s me was foolish—kneeling to apologize when I could’ve made you submit. I’m the strong one. Why seek a weakling’s forgiveness? Before me, you only—”

She paused, rubbing her temples. *Wait… do these words even fit me?*

She glanced at Freya. *It’s not too much. I won’t kill her. Just… a little revenge. Yes.*

Morningstar’s self-perception was shifting—subtly, inevitably.

“Alright. To prove your submission…”

She leaned back. The fabric beneath her melted into a jet-black throne. She lifted one foot; the shoe dissolved into shadow, revealing a small, pale sole.

“W-what are you doing?!”

“This is proof. Lick it~” Reclining in the throne, she propped her chin, crimson eyes half-lidded, a teasing smirk playing on her lips.

“What?!”

“Kneel. Lick my foot. Swear loyalty.”

Morningstar wiggled her pristine toes. She felt no shame—only exhilaration. Watching the one who once insulted her now face such humiliation? *Absolutely thrilling.*