“I-I’m coming.”

For some reason, Mu Nanyan felt her legs go a little weak. Even her voice trembled as she answered.

That was only natural. The other woman was the Demon Emperor, after all—powerful enough that even the aura she exuded on an ordinary day could make people tremble. And now Mu Nanyan was alone in a room with her, speaking face-to-face.

The Demon Emperor was a woman, but she hadn’t reached her position by sheer luck.

She must have either an exceptional mind and courage, or strength far beyond the ordinary. As it happened, the Demon Emperor had all of those qualities. That was what had made the Demon Clan so powerful.

Faced with a woman whose life story, if written down, would fill a stack of books twice as tall as she was, Mu Nanyan naturally acted a lot more meekly.

“Why are you standing at the door? Come in. Do you expect Me, who’s only just recovered from a serious illness, to get out of bed and welcome you?”

Her pleasant voice did nothing to diminish the authority of the Demon Emperor.

Mu Nanyan didn’t dare hesitate. Awkwardly holding down her skirt, she walked toward the Demon Emperor.

As she walked, she wondered whether she should kneel first. No… The Demon Clan—maybe they used Western-style etiquette?

A bow? A curtsy? Or was there some other trick to it? Damn it, Alisha and the others hadn’t taught her this either.

“What’s wrong? Why are you walking so awkwardly? Are you uncomfortable?”

“I-I am a little. These clothes feel so strange. The slit on the thigh is too high. If I move even a little too much, then…”

Mu Nanyan’s cheeks reddened slightly. She was too embarrassed to finish.

Her reaction piqued the Demon Emperor’s interest. She set down the book in her hands and pulled aside the red gauze curtain.

Only then did Mu Nanyan get a clear look at the Demon Emperor. In the soft lamplight, her captivating figure lay on its side in bed.

Her tall, slender figure traced elegant curves, and her effortless beauty was intoxicating.

Her smooth black hair spilled over the pillow like a waterfall. Even from a distance, Mu Nanyan could catch its faint, delicate fragrance.

Her features were refined and striking. Her high, straight nose lent her profile a dignified look, while a seductive smile played at her soft lips.

Her skin, smooth as fine jade, glowed naturally in the lamplight, as if it were a masterpiece bestowed by the heavens.

The Demon Emperor wore a light, flowing nightdress as she reclined on the bed, her slender feet peeking out just enough to give her an air of mystery that made Mu Nanyan want to move closer.

Her eyes were deep and bright, like two sparkling stars. When she looked at Mu Nanyan, they held an emotion that was hard to read.

She didn’t need to say a word. Every movement of hers carried an air of elegance. She was like a flower in full bloom in a garden—so beautiful that simply looking at her put one at ease.

“S-so beautiful.”

The words slipped out of Mu Nanyan’s mouth. Her frank praise made the Demon Emperor pause for a moment. Then she covered her mouth with a delicate hand, her nails painted a pale red, and laughed softly.

“Why are you complimenting Me on My looks tonight? Before, you wouldn’t even let Me touch your hand. What is it? Have you changed your mind?”

“You don’t need to feel so burdened. I’m not petty. I know someone’s been pulling the strings behind your back, so I won’t take my anger out on a woman—especially not one I’m fond of.”

After she’d laughed enough, the Demon Emperor closed the ancient book beside her and placed it on the bookshelf by the bed.

“You and I are both women, but that doesn’t matter. Your gender and mine can’t decide matters of the heart.”

“I called you here tonight, and you came so readily. I assume you’re prepared—and that you know what I want, don’t you?”

At the Demon Emperor’s words, Mu Nanyan’s body gave an involuntary shiver. Here it comes. It’s finally happening…

“I-I know.”

Mu Nanyan lowered her eyes and gave a slight nod.

“Good. Then let’s begin.”

“All right… I understand.”

When you’re under someone else’s roof, you have to keep your head down… Mu Nanyan thought as she slowly reached for the strap on her shoulder.

So what if she’s a woman? When all’s said and done, I’m the one getting the better deal here!