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Chapter 9: A day of bonding

  The morning sunlight streamed into the mansion, illuminating the elegant halls with a soft, golden glow. After the chaos of the dungeon, the quiet serenity of this place was a welcome change. I decided it was time to address the humans I had rescued—Alma Milano, Felicia Milano, and Spinel Fcans. They deserved answers, and I needed to understand their situation better.

  I found the three women in the dining hall, sitting at the long table. Alma and Felicia, the twin sisters, were chatting softly, their expressions a mix of curiosity and apprehension. Spinel sat nearby, her sharp eyes scanning the room as if assessing every detail. Despite their circumstances, they looked remarkably composed, though the weariness from their ordeal still lingered.

  As I entered, their conversations ceased, and they turned their gazes toward me. I could sense the unease in the air, but I offered a reassuring smile as I approached.

  “Good morning,” I said, taking a seat across from them. “I hope you all managed to rest well. I know the past few days have been... difficult.”

  Alma, the more outspoken of the twins, was the first to respond. Her emerald-green eyes met mine with a mixture of gratitude and curiosity. “Thank you for saving us,” she said, her voice steady but warm. “We don’t know what would’ve happened if you hadn’t come along.”

  Felicia, the quieter of the two, nodded in agreement. Her long auburn hair framed her face as she spoke softly, “We’re deeply grateful. But we also want to understand... why did you save us? You didn’t have to risk your life for strangers.”

  Spinel, ever the pragmatist, leaned forward slightly. Her piercing blue eyes locked onto mine. “And what do you intend to do with us now?” she asked bluntly. There was no malice in her tone, only a desire for clarity.

  I met her gaze, my expression calm. “I saved you because it was the right thing to do. No one deserves to be left behind in a place like that. As for what comes next, that’s up to you. You’re free to leave if you wish, but if you’d prefer to stay, I can offer you safety and a purpose.”

  The room fell silent as the three women exchanged glances. After a moment, Alma spoke again, a small smile tugging at her lips. “I think I’d like to stay. I’m a cook by trade, and I’d be happy to contribute however I can.”

  Felicia nodded, her voice filled with quiet determination. “I’m an alchemist. If you’ll allow me, I’d like to assist you as well. It’s the least I can do to repay you.”

  Spinel’s sharp gaze softened slightly, and she leaned back in her chair. “I suppose I’ll stay too. I’m also an alchemist, and I think our skills could be useful to you. Besides,” she added with a faint smirk, “I’m curious to see what kind of man you really are.”

  Their willingness to stay was a relief, though I hadn’t expected any of them to leave so soon. I nodded, acknowledging their decisions. “Very well. Alma, you can take charge of the kitchen. If there’s anything you need, let me know. Felicia and Spinel, the alchemy lab is on the east wing of the mansion. Feel free to make it your own.”

  With that, the tension in the room seemed to ease, and a sense of camaraderie began to form. I decided to spend the day getting to know them better and ensuring they felt comfortable in their new roles.

  Alma quickly proved her skills as a cook, preparing a delicious lunch that filled the mansion with the aroma of freshly baked bread and roasted vegetables. As we sat around the table, I couldn’t help but admire her dedication and talent. She worked with a precision and grace that was almost mesmerizing.

  Felicia and Spinel, on the other hand, spent the afternoon exploring the alchemy lab. I joined them for a while, watching as they unpacked various vials and tools, their faces lighting up with excitement as they discussed their craft.

  “This lab is incredible,” Felicia said, her voice filled with awe. “I’ve never seen such advanced equipment before.”

  Spinel nodded in agreement, her hands deftly arranging ingredients on a workbench. “With this setup, we could create potions and elixirs far beyond anything we’ve made before. It’s almost overwhelming.”

  I smiled, pleased to see their enthusiasm. “Take your time to familiarize yourselves with everything. If there’s anything you need, don’t hesitate to ask.”

  The rest of the day passed in a blur of activity and conversation. Alma prepared a hearty dinner, and we all sat together in the dining hall, sharing stories and laughter. Despite the differences in our backgrounds, there was a growing sense of unity among us.

  As the evening drew to a close, I escorted each of them to their rooms, ensuring they were comfortable. When I finally retired to my own room, I found my mother, Mary, waiting for me.

  “You’ve been busy,” she said, her tone a mix of amusement and curiosity. “Who are these new people you’ve brought here?”

  I sat down beside her, running a hand through my hair. “They’re survivors from the dungeon. Alma and Felicia are twins—one’s a cook, and the other’s an alchemist. Spinel’s an alchemist too. They’re talented, and I think they’ll be valuable allies.”

  Mary studied me for a moment, her expression thoughtful. “You have a good heart, Amahiko. But be careful. Not everyone you save will have good intentions.”

  “I know,” I replied, meeting her gaze. “But I have to trust my instincts. For now, they’re under my protection.”

  She nodded, her lips curving into a small smile. “Just don’t forget to take care of yourself too.”

  With that, she left the room, leaving me alone with my thoughts. As I lay in bed, I couldn’t help but reflect on the day’s events. The bonds I was forming, the choices I was making—they all felt like pieces of a larger puzzle, one that I was only beginning to understand.

  But for now, I allowed myself to rest, knowing that tomorrow would bring new challenges and new opportunities. The journey was far from over, but I was ready to face whatever lay ahead.

  The following morning, I woke up feeling refreshed. The quiet atmosphere of the mansion was comforting after the chaos of the dungeon. I decided it was time to check on Alma, Felicia, and Spinel to ensure they were settling in well.

  After a quick breakfast prepared by Alma, I went to the alchemy lab where Felicia and Spinel had spent the night organizing and experimenting with the equipment. The scent of herbs and a faint chemical tang lingered in the air as I entered.

  Felicia was engrossed in her work, carefully mixing ingredients in a small cauldron. Her auburn hair was tied back, and her glasses perched on her nose as she studied the potion’s color. Spinel was nearby, arranging shelves of ingredients, her sharp eyes darting between vials. Despite their intense focus, they both seemed more relaxed than the day before.

  “Good morning,” I greeted them, stepping into the room. “How’s everything coming along?”

  Felicia looked up, a soft smile on her face. “Good morning, Amahiko. Everything here is incredible. I’ve already started brewing some basic potions to test the equipment. It’s far more advanced than anything I’ve used before.”

  Spinel glanced at me, a satisfied smirk playing on her lips. “This lab is a dream come true. Whoever designed this knew exactly what an alchemist needs. We’ll be able to create some powerful items here.”

  I nodded, pleased with their progress. “Take your time to get familiar with everything. If there’s anything you need, let me know.”

  Felicia hesitated for a moment before speaking. “Actually, there is something. We’re running low on a few key ingredients—rare herbs and minerals that are essential for advanced potions. If you could help us gather them, it would make a big difference.”

  Spinel chimed in, her tone practical. “We can give you a list of what we need. Some of these ingredients might be hard to find, but I’m sure you’ll manage.”

  “Consider it done,” I said without hesitation. “Just prepare the list, and I’ll handle the rest.”

  Next, I went to find Alma in the kitchen. The aroma of freshly baked bread greeted me as I stepped inside. Alma was busy kneading dough, her movements precise and efficient. Despite the hard work, she looked completely at ease.

  “Good morning, Alma,” I said, leaning against the doorway. “I see you’ve already made yourself at home.”

  She glanced up, her emerald-green eyes sparkling. “Good morning, Amahiko. I hope you don’t mind me taking over the kitchen. It’s been a while since I’ve had a proper space to cook in, and I couldn’t resist.”

  “Not at all,” I assured her. “In fact, I was hoping you’d make yourself comfortable here. From what I’ve tasted so far, you’re an excellent cook.”

  She laughed softly, a light blush coloring her cheeks. “Thank you. Cooking has always been my passion, and I’m glad I can use it to repay your kindness.”

  As I watched her work, I noticed the care she put into every detail—the way she measured ingredients, the way she adjusted the heat of the oven. It was clear that she wasn’t just skilled; she truly loved what she did.

  “Is there anything you need?” I asked. “Anything that would make your job easier?”

  Alma thought for a moment before responding. “Well, the pantry is well-stocked, but there are a few spices and ingredients that would allow me to create more diverse dishes. If you ever come across them during your travels, I’d appreciate it.”

  “I’ll keep an eye out,” I promised. “In the meantime, let me know if there’s anything else you need.”

  She smiled warmly. “Thank you, Amahiko. I’ll do my best to make this place feel like home.”

  The rest of the day was spent ensuring that the three women had everything they needed. I made a mental note of the ingredients Felicia and Spinel required, as well as Alma’s requests. As I moved through the mansion, I found myself reflecting on how quickly they had adapted to their new environment. Despite the trauma they had endured, they were determined to move forward and make the most of their new lives.

  That evening, we gathered in the dining hall for dinner. Alma had prepared a feast—roast chicken, fresh vegetables, and a variety of sides that filled the table with color and flavor. Felicia and Spinel joined us, their expressions more relaxed than I had seen before.

  As we ate, the conversation flowed easily. Alma shared stories from her time as a traveling cook, while Felicia and Spinel discussed their experiments and the potential of the alchemy lab. Their enthusiasm was contagious, and I found myself genuinely enjoying their company.

  After dinner, I escorted each of them to their rooms, ensuring they were comfortable before retiring to my own. As I settled into bed, my thoughts turned to the future. The bonds I was forming with these women were growing stronger, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of responsibility for their well-being.

  The challenges ahead would undoubtedly be difficult, but for now, I allowed myself to rest, knowing that I wasn’t alone. Together, we would face whatever came our way, and I was determined to protect them no matter what.

  The next morning, I woke to the sound of birds chirping outside my window. The sun was barely rising, casting a soft glow over the mansion grounds. After a quick wash, I made my way to the dining hall, where Alma had already prepared breakfast. The scent of freshly baked bread and brewed tea greeted me as I entered.

  “Good morning, Alma,” I said, taking a seat at the table.

  “Good morning, Amahiko,” she replied, her voice warm and cheerful. “I hope you’re hungry. I’ve prepared a little feast to start the day.”

  The table was filled with an assortment of dishes—scrambled eggs, roasted vegetables, pastries, and a bowl of fresh fruit. It was clear Alma had put her heart into the meal.

  As I began eating, Felicia and Spinel entered the room. They both looked well-rested, a stark contrast to the exhaustion they had displayed when I first rescued them.

  “Good morning,” Felicia greeted, adjusting her glasses.

  “Morning,” Spinel added with a smirk. “Looks like Alma’s outdone herself again.”

  The three of them joined me at the table, and for a while, we enjoyed the meal in companionable silence. Afterward, we moved to the sitting room to discuss our plans for the future.

  “Now that you’re all settled in,” I began, addressing the three women, “it’s time to think about what comes next. I want you to feel at home here, but I also want to make sure you have the resources to continue pursuing your passions.”

  Alma nodded. “I’d like to expand the kitchen garden. With more fresh ingredients, I can experiment with new recipes and create even better meals for everyone.”

  “That’s a great idea,” I agreed. “Feel free to take whatever space you need on the grounds. I’ll have the staff assist you if necessary.”

  Felicia spoke next, her tone thoughtful. “The alchemy lab is incredible, but there are some advanced tools I’d like to acquire. With them, Spinel and I could create more complex potions and artifacts.”

  Spinel nodded in agreement. “And if we can get our hands on rare ingredients, we could produce items that would be invaluable to you in battle.”

  I considered their requests carefully. “I’ll prioritize gathering the materials and tools you need. In the meantime, you should focus on mastering the resources you already have. Your skills will only improve with practice.”

  As the morning turned to afternoon, I accompanied Alma to the kitchen garden to help her plan the expansion. The space was already lush with herbs and vegetables, but Alma’s vision was far grander. She sketched out a design for additional beds, a small greenhouse, and even a beehive for honey production.

  “This will take some time to set up,” she admitted, “but once it’s ready, I’ll be able to grow everything we need.”

  “I’ll make sure you have all the support you need,” I assured her. “You’ve already proven how valuable your cooking is to this household.”

  Her cheeks flushed slightly at the compliment. “Thank you, Amahiko. I’ll do my best to live up to your expectations.”

  Later, I visited the alchemy lab, where Felicia and Spinel were deep in discussion. They had already begun experimenting with the equipment, and the room was filled with the faint scent of herbs and chemicals.

  “We’ve made some progress,” Felicia reported, holding up a vial of glowing blue liquid. “This potion enhances physical strength temporarily. It’s not perfect yet, but we’re getting there.”

  Spinel added, “We’re also working on a healing potion that could be useful in emergencies. Once we’ve perfected the recipe, I’ll show you how to use it.”

  “Impressive,” I said, examining their work. “Keep it up. These potions could make a huge difference in the battles to come.”

  That evening, we gathered in the dining hall for dinner once again. Alma had outdone herself with a menu of roasted lamb, seasoned potatoes, and a decadent chocolate cake for dessert. The atmosphere was warm and lively as we shared stories and laughter.

  As the night wore on, I found myself reflecting on how quickly these women had become a part of my life. Despite their initial hardships, they were thriving in their new roles, and their determination inspired me to keep moving forward.

  The next morning, I awoke to the sound of a light knock on my door. I stretched, letting out a small yawn, and called out, “Come in.”

  The door creaked open, and Alma peeked her head inside. “Good morning, Amahiko. Breakfast is ready, and Felicia and Spinel are waiting for you in the dining hall.”

  “I’ll be right there,” I replied, quickly getting dressed.

  By the time I arrived at the dining hall, the table was already set with a hearty breakfast. Alma greeted me with a warm smile as she poured tea into my cup. Felicia and Spinel were chatting about their plans for the day, their enthusiasm evident in their voices.

  “Good morning,” I said, taking my seat.

  “Good morning, Amahiko,” they chorused, their faces lighting up.

  As we ate, I noticed how comfortable they had become in their new surroundings. Alma’s cooking had brought life to the mansion, and Felicia and Spinel’s alchemy experiments were already showing promise. It was a stark contrast to the exhausted, battered individuals I had rescued just days ago.

  After breakfast, I suggested we spend the day exploring the mansion grounds together. Alma was eager to show me the progress she had made in the garden, while Felicia and Spinel wanted to discuss their plans for expanding the alchemy lab.

  We started with the garden. Alma led the way, her excitement palpable as she pointed out the new rows of herbs and vegetables she had planted. The garden had already begun to take on a more organized and vibrant appearance, and I could see the potential in her vision.

  “This is just the beginning,” she said, her eyes shining with determination. “Once the greenhouse is built, I’ll be able to grow even more varieties of plants.”

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  “You’ve done an incredible job,” I said, genuinely impressed. “If you need anything else, let me know, and I’ll make sure it’s provided.”

  Alma blushed slightly, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. “Thank you, Amahiko. Your support means a lot.”

  Next, we visited the alchemy lab. Felicia and Spinel were in their element, surrounded by vials, herbs, and magical tools. They had already begun organizing the space, creating designated areas for potion-making, artifact crafting, and storage.

  “We’ve been experimenting with new formulas,” Felicia explained, showing me a small rack of potions. “This one enhances speed, while this one temporarily increases magical power.”

  Spinel added, “And we’re working on a prototype for a defensive barrier. It’s not ready yet, but it has a lot of potential.”

  Their passion was infectious, and I couldn’t help but feel proud of how far they had come in such a short time. “You’re both doing amazing work,” I said. “These potions and tools will be invaluable in the battles to come.”

  Felicia adjusted her glasses, her expression serious. “We want to make sure you’re prepared for anything, Amahiko. You’ve already done so much for us, and this is our way of repaying you.”

  Spinel smirked, leaning against the workbench. “Yeah, don’t think you’re the only one who can make a difference. We’re here to support you, too.”

  Their determination was inspiring, and I knew I could rely on them when the time came.

  As the day went on, we spent time together sharing stories and laughter. Alma recounted tales of her childhood in the countryside, while Felicia and Spinel shared their experiences as alchemists. It was a rare moment of peace and camaraderie, and I found myself cherishing it more than I expected.

  In the evening, we gathered in the sitting room for a simple dinner. Alma had prepared a light meal of soup and bread, and the warm atmosphere was a welcome change from the chaos of recent days.

  As we ate, I couldn’t help but reflect on how much had changed. These women, who had been strangers to me not long ago, had become an integral part of my life. Their strength and resilience were a testament to the power of hope and determination, and I was grateful to have them by my side.

  Later that night, as I sat in my study, I found myself lost in thought. The mansion was quiet, the only sound the crackling of the fire in the hearth. My mind wandered to the battles I had fought, the enemies I had faced, and the people I had saved.

  A soft knock at the door interrupted my thoughts. “Come in,” I called.

  The door opened, and Alma stepped inside, holding a tray with a cup of tea. “I thought you might need this,” she said, setting the tray on the desk.

  “Thank you, Alma,” I said, taking the cup. “You didn’t have to do this.”

  She smiled, her expression gentle. “It’s the least I can do. You’ve done so much for all of us, Amahiko. We’re lucky to have you.”

  Her words warmed my heart, and I realized just how much their presence meant to me. As I sipped the tea, I made a silent vow to protect them, no matter what challenges lay ahead.

  The night stretched on, but for the first time in a long while, I felt a sense of peace.

  The air in the king’s chamber hung thick with the metallic tang of blood, a grim reminder of the night’s brutal struggle. I surveyed the scene one last time, ensuring no lingering threats remained. I created those illusion in that room like that. My gaze fell upon the four female goblins, Nata, Sato, Bloody, and Keiko, still deep in slumber, oblivious to the dramatic shift in their world. A pang of something akin to… pity?… flickered through me. They were warriors, yes, but they were also… just goblins. Pawns in a game far larger than themselves.

  I carefully, one by one, lifted each of them – surprisingly light for seasoned fighters – and carried them to a smaller, adjacent chamber. I laid them gently on the floor, then stepped back to observe them. They stirred slightly, their breathing shallow and even. I hated to wake them like this, but it had to be done.

  “Wake up,” I said, my voice low but firm.

  Their eyes fluttered open, one by one. Confusion clouded their features initially, then recognition dawned, followed by a flicker of fear. They scrambled to their feet, instinctively reaching for weapons that weren’t there.

  “Don’t worry,” I said, holding up my hands. “I’m not going to hurt you.”

  They eyed me with suspicion, their gazes darting between me and the door, as if searching for an escape route.

  “Your king is dead,” I announced, the words hanging heavy in the air. “I killed him.”

  The silence that followed was thick enough to cut with a knife. Their expressions shifted from fear to shock, then to a strange mix of disbelief and… relief? It was hard to decipher.

  “He… he’s really dead?” Nata finally whispered, her voice trembling slightly.

  I nodded. “I assure you, he is. The reign of terror is over.”

  I paused, letting the weight of my words sink in. “Which brings me to you four. Your king is gone. Your leader is no more. You are free to choose your own path.” I looked at each of them in turn. “You can stay with me, pledge your loyalty, and perhaps find a new purpose. Or… you can leave. Return to your clans, forge your own destinies. The choice is yours.”

  I knew this was a lot to process, especially after just waking up. “I’ll give you ten minutes,” I said. “Think about it. I’ll be back then, and I’ll ask for your decision.”

  Without waiting for a response, I focused my magic and teleported each of them back to their own rooms. They reappeared with a small pop of displaced air, looking dazed and disoriented. I left them to their thoughts, the weight of their decisions – and the future – resting squarely on their shoulders. Ten minutes. It wasn’t much time, but it was all I could offer. I hoped they would choose wisely. For their sake, and perhaps, for mine.

  Ten minutes. It felt like an eternity, yet also a fleeting moment. My footsteps echoed in the now-silent corridors as I made my way to Nata’s room. I paused outside her door, took a deep breath, and entered.

  Nata stood waiting, her expression resolute. The earlier confusion and fear had been replaced by a quiet determination. “Have you made your decision?” I asked, keeping my voice neutral.

  “Yes,” she replied without hesitation. “I will stay with you.”

  I nodded, accepting her answer. “Very well. Then let us formalize this.” I extended my hand, and a faint, ethereal glow emanated from my palm. “This is a familiar pact. It will bind us together, strengthening our connection and allowing us to share our strengths.”

  As I initiated the ritual, a notification flashed before my eyes: New Spell Available: Familiar Pact. I instinctively knew how to proceed. The magical energies flowed between us, weaving an invisible bond. But as the ritual concluded, a surge of light erupted from Nata’s body, and a new, startling message appeared in my status window: Warning: Insufficient Mana Transfer. Subject requires vital energy replenishment. Method: Direct oral consumption of mammary gland secretions. Failure to comply within one hour will result in subject’s death.

  My eyes widened in disbelief. Mammary gland secretions? The message was disturbingly specific. I stared at Nata, who was now clutching her chest, her face contorted in pain.

  “What’s wrong?” I asked, my voice laced with concern.

  “It… it hurts,” she gasped, her breathing shallow. “Like… like something is draining me.”

  I explained the message, omitting the… particular… details. “It seems the pact requires a… specific form of energy transfer,” I said, trying to choose my words carefully. “And… well, the only way to provide it is…” I trailed off, feeling a blush creeping up my neck. “It involves… your bre...breasts.”

  Nata’s eyes widened, and her cheeks flushed crimson. “You mean… you have to…?”

  I nodded, feeling incredibly awkward. “It seems so. The message said… if I don’t… you’ll…” I couldn’t bring myself to finish the sentence.

  Nata’s pain seemed to intensify. She bit her lip, her eyes filled with a mixture of pain and… resignation? “It’s… it’s okay,” she whispered, her voice trembling. “If it’s necessary… then do it.”

  I hesitated, still feeling incredibly uncomfortable. “Are you sure?” I asked. “There has to be another way…”

  “Just… do it,” she said, her voice strained. “Please.”

  With trembling hands, I gently removed her upper garments. She averted her gaze, her face burning red. I tried to focus on the task at hand, trying to ignore the rapidly beating of my heart. I gently took her right breast into my mouth, the taste surprisingly… sweet. I also cupped her other breast with my hand, gently kneading it, though I knew I shouldn’t. Nata moaned softly, her pain seemingly subsiding. I continued the… treatment, feeling a strange mix of embarrassment and… something else. Something akin to… pleasure? I pushed the thought away, focusing on the task at hand. Nata’s breathing returned to normal, and the color slowly returned to her face. The pain was gone.

  “Are you feeling better?” I asked, pulling away slightly.

  She nodded, her eyes still closed. “Yes,” she whispered. “Thank you.”

  I helped her redress, the silence between us thick with unspoken words. The familiar pact had been formed, but it had come with a… complication. A very strange, very awkward complication. And I had a feeling this was just the beginning.

  With Nata’s situation stabilized, I moved on to Bloody’s room. The scenario played out almost identically. She, too, had decided to stay, and the familiar pact ritual proceeded without incident… until the same damn notification popped up: Warning: Insufficient Mana Transfer. Subject requires vital energy replenishment. Method: Direct oral consumption of mammary gland secretions. Failure to comply within one hour will result in subject’s death.

  I groaned inwardly. This was becoming a disturbingly regular occurrence. Bloody looked at me with a mixture of confusion and concern. “Is something wrong?” she asked.

  I sighed, pinching the bridge of my nose. “It’s… the pact,” I explained, trying to keep my voice steady. “It requires a… specific form of energy transfer, and… well, it’s the same as with Nata.”

  Bloody’s eyes widened, and a slow smile spread across her face. “Oh,” she said, her voice laced with amusement. “I see.”

  I wasn’t sure if her reaction was better or worse than Nata’s. At least with Nata, there had been some semblance of awkwardness. Bloody seemed… almost eager.

  “Are you… okay with this?” I asked, still feeling incredibly awkward.

  “If it’s necessary,” she replied, shrugging slightly. “Then, by all means, proceed.”

  I swallowed hard and, with a deep breath, helped her remove her upper garments. Bloody didn’t avert her gaze; instead, she looked at me with a playful glint in her eyes. This was definitely going to be more uncomfortable than I thought.

  I gently took her right breast into my mouth, just as I had with Nata. But this time, something was different. As I suckled, a warm, creamy liquid filled my mouth. Milk. Bloody was lactating. The taste was… surprisingly pleasant. I tried to focus on the task at hand, but the warmth of her breast in my mouth, the sweet taste of her milk, and her steady gaze made it difficult to concentrate. I also cupped and gently kneaded her other breast with my hand, even though I knew I shouldn’t.

  Bloody let out a soft moan, her eyes fluttering closed. She seemed to be enjoying the… treatment. A lot. “Mmm,” she purred. “That’s… actually quite nice.”

  I felt my face burning. This was getting out of hand. I continued the… um… energy transfer, trying to ignore the increasingly pleasurable sensations. Bloody’s breathing deepened, and she seemed to relax completely. I couldn’t help but wonder if she was deliberately trying to make this more awkward for me.

  After a few minutes, I pulled away, feeling a strange mix of relief and… something else. Something I couldn’t quite identify. Bloody opened her eyes, a contented smile on her face.

  “Thank you,” she said, her voice still slightly husky. “That was… surprisingly effective.”

  I helped her redress, the silence between us charged with unspoken thoughts. This whole situation was becoming increasingly bizarre. Two down, two to go. I had a feeling the next two encounters were going to be just as… interesting. And I was dreading them.

  “Again?”

  I braced myself as I approached Sato’s room. Two down, two to go. I had a sinking feeling I knew what to expect. And I was right. Sato, like the others, had chosen to stay, and the familiar pact ritual went off without a hitch… until the dreaded notification appeared: Warning: Insufficient Mana Transfer… The familiar message echoed in my mind, a constant reminder of the bizarre situation I found myself in.

  Sato looked at me with a mixture of curiosity and apprehension. “Is everything alright?” she asked.

  I sighed. “It’s the pact again,” I explained, trying to keep the weariness out of my voice. “It requires the same… energy transfer as before.”

  “Again?”

  Sato’s eyes widened slightly, and a faint blush crept up her cheeks. She seemed a little more reserved than Bloody, but not as outwardly embarrassed as Nata had been. “I see,” she said quietly. “If it’s necessary…”

  I nodded, feeling a wave of resignation wash over me. This was quickly becoming routine. With a slightly heavier heart, I helped her remove her upper garments. Sato was initially a bit shy, avoiding eye contact and fidgeting slightly. But after a moment, she seemed to accept the situation.

  I leaned in and gently took her left breast into my mouth. Just like with Bloody, Sato was also lactating. The warm, sweet milk filled my mouth, and I couldn’t help but notice how… pleasant it tasted. I cupped her other breast with my hand, gently massaging it, even though I knew I probably shouldn’t.

  I thought, “It should kill me instead of them. Oh... How shameful it is!”

  Sato let out a small, involuntary sigh, her initial shyness seemingly melting away. She closed her eyes, her expression softening. She seemed to be enjoying the sensation, just as Bloody had. “Mmm,” she murmured softly. “That’s… actually quite soothing.”

  I tried to focus on the… therapeutic… aspect of the situation, but it was becoming increasingly difficult. The warmth of her skin, the sweet taste of her milk, her soft moans… it was all incredibly distracting. I continued the… procedure, feeling a strange mix of embarrassment, guilt, and… something else. Something I was trying very hard to ignore.

  After a few minutes, I pulled away, feeling a sense of both relief and unease. Sato opened her eyes, a relaxed smile on her face. “Thank you,” she said, her voice soft. “I feel much better now.”

  I helped her redress, the silence between us filled with unspoken thoughts. One more to go. I had a feeling Keiko’s room was going to be just as… interesting. And I was definitely not looking forward to it.

  The sense of completion I felt after helping Keiko redress was short-lived. A fresh wave of pain contorted her face, her previously relaxed expression twisting into a grimace. She clutched her chest, gasping for air.

  “What’s wrong?” I asked, my voice filled with concern. Had the pact malfunctioned again?

  Keiko’s eyes widened, a strange mix of pain and… something else… flickering within them. “It’s… it’s the pact,” she whispered, her voice strained. “It’s… different this time.”

  Suddenly, another notification flashed before my eyes: Warning: Secondary Mana Deficiency. Subject requires further vital energy replenishment. Method: Oral transference of male reproductive essence. Failure to comply within one hour will result in subject’s death.

  “Oral....or..oral trans.. ference?”

  “What is it?”

  “What is it?”

  “What is it?”

  My jaw dropped. Male reproductive essence? This was getting ridiculous. I stared at Keiko, my mind reeling. How could the pact require this?

  Keiko looked at me, her expression a mixture of pain, embarrassment, and… determination. “It seems… there’s another… requirement,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper. “And… well, it involves…” She trailed off, her cheeks flushing crimson.

  I swallowed hard, the implications of the message sinking in. “It involves… me?” I asked, the question hanging heavy in the air.

  Keiko nodded, her eyes closed. “The system… it says… I can’t stop myself,” she whispered, her voice trembling slightly.

  Before I could respond, Keiko reached out and gently pulled me closer. Her touch was surprisingly strong, her grip firm. Her eyes, now filled with a strange intensity, met mine. “I’m sorry,” she whispered, “but… I have to.”

  And then, before I could even process what was happening, she leaned in and… well, she did. She took me into her mouth. The sensation was… unexpected. And intense. I stood there, frozen, my mind struggling to catch up with the reality of the situation. Keiko, her eyes still closed, proceeded with a surprising level of… enthusiasm. She seemed driven, compelled by something beyond her control. The pain that had been evident in her face earlier had now been replaced by a look of… almost pleasure?

  I tried to remain as still as possible, my mind racing. This was beyond anything I could have imagined. The warmth, the pressure, the… intimacy… it was all incredibly overwhelming. And then, just as suddenly as it had begun, it was over. Keiko pulled away, her breathing slightly heavier. She looked at me, her eyes filled with a mixture of apology and… satisfaction?

  “Thank you,” she whispered, her cheeks still flushed. “I… I feel much better now.”

  I stood there, speechless, my mind still trying to process what had just happened. Keiko, seemingly recovered, helped me adjust my clothing. The silence between us was thick with unspoken words. This whole situation was beyond bizarre. First the… energy transfer, and now this? What other surprises did these goblin women have in store for me? I had a feeling my life had just taken a very strange, very unexpected turn.

  That night, as I sat alone in my room, my mind drifted back to something that had been bothering me for a while—the familiar pact with Keiko. I sighed, rubbing the back of my neck as the memories replayed in my head.

  The process of forming the pact had been... unusual, to say the least. The pact required physical intimacy to synchronize mana, and Keiko, ever bold and mischievous, had taken the process to extremes. The thought of her teasing smile, the way she leaned in with no hesitation—it was enough to make my face flush.

  “Why do I keep thinking about this?” I muttered to myself, burying my face in my hands. I was seventeen now, and moments like these were becoming harder to ignore.

  In my previous life, I was a loner, an introvert who barely interacted with others. Relationships, whether romantic or platonic, had always felt out of reach. Yet here I was, surrounded by people who cared about me, who looked up to me. It was overwhelming at times, but also comforting.

  I leaned back in my chair, staring at the ceiling. “I’ve come a long way,” I said softly. “From being completely alone to having so many people in my life... It feels unreal.”

  The next morning, I gathered everyone in the main hall to make introductions. The four mature goblins—Nata, Keiko, Bloody, and Sato—stood by my side, their expressions a mix of curiosity and wariness as they faced the others.

  “These are the four I captured from the dungeon,” I began, gesturing toward them. “They’re strong and skilled, and I believe they can be valuable allies. But for now, they’re under my watch.”

  Mary, my mother, stepped forward with her usual gentle smile. “Welcome to our home. I hope you’ll find peace here.”

  Shiori and Hina, ever curious, bombarded the goblins with questions about their abilities and pasts. Nata, always the composed one, answered politely, while Keiko smirked, clearly enjoying the attention.

  Alma, Felicia, and Spinel were more reserved but nodded in acknowledgment. Alma whispered to me, “They’re... unique, but I trust your judgment, Amahiko.”

  “I appreciate that,” I replied, grateful for her support.

  As the day went on, the tension between the newcomers and the rest of the group eased. By evening, everyone was chatting and sharing stories, the atmosphere warm and lively.

  Just as I was beginning to relax, Sayo and Lucaus approached me. The twins had always been adventurous, and their expressions were serious as they stood before me.

  “Amahiko,” Sayo began, “we’ve been thinking about something for a while now.”

  Lucaus nodded, adding, “We want to go to the royal capital and become adventurers. There’s so much we want to see and learn, and we think it’s time to take that step.”

  I raised an eyebrow, surprised by their sudden announcement. “That’s a big decision,” I said. “Have you thought it through?”

  Sayo smiled. “We have. We’ve been training and preparing for this. But we wanted to ask if you’d like to come with us.”

  Their words caught me off guard. The royal capital was a place I hadn’t considered visiting anytime soon, but the idea intrigued me.

  “I’ll think about it,” I replied, my mind already racing with possibilities.

  The twins nodded, their expressions hopeful. “Take your time,” Lucaus said. “We’ll wait for your decision.”

  That night, as I lay in bed, I thought about their offer. The royal capital was a place of opportunities and challenges, and it could be a chance to grow even stronger. But it also meant leaving the comfort of the mansion and the people I had come to care about.

  As dawn broke, I sat on the edge of my bed, deep in thought. Sayo and Lucaus’s offer to journey to the royal capital had been on my mind all night. It wasn’t just about them—it was about me, my goals, and the people I cared about.

  The royal capital held countless opportunities, not just for adventure but for gathering resources, information, and allies. It was a chance to grow stronger, not only for myself but for those who depended on me.

  “I’ll go,” I finally decided, standing up with renewed determination.

  The first person I approached was my mother, Mary. She was sitting in the garden, tending to the flowers. When I told her my decision, she looked at me with a mix of pride and concern.

  “The royal capital is far, and the journey won’t be easy,” she said softly. “But I understand why you need to go. You’ve always been strong, Amahiko, but this strength you seek... it’s not just for yourself, is it?”

  I nodded. “It’s for everyone I care about. For you, Shiori, Hina, and the others. I want to protect everyone and grow stronger to face what lies ahead.”

  Mary smiled, tears welling in her eyes. “Then go, my son. Follow your path. But promise me you’ll take care of yourself.”

  “I promise,” I said, hugging her tightly.

  Next, I spoke to Shiori and Hina. The two of them were in the library, pouring over books about magic and alchemy. When I told them about my decision, they exchanged a glance before turning to me.

  “You’re leaving us?” Shiori asked, her voice tinged with sadness.

  “Not forever,” I assured her. “I’ll be back. But this journey is important, not just for me but for all of us. I’ll find ways to help us grow stronger.”

  Hina smiled faintly. “We trust you, Amahiko. But don’t forget about us while you’re off having adventures.”

  I chuckled. “How could I? You two are unforgettable.”

  Alma, Felicia, and Spinel were next. The three of them were in the alchemy lab, busy organizing their tools. When I explained my plans, Alma frowned.

  “We’ve just gotten to know you,” she said. “And now you’re leaving?”

  “It’s not goodbye,” I said. “It’s more like... see you later. Besides, the mansion needs skilled people like you to keep things running.”

  Felicia nodded. “We’ll take care of things here. But don’t forget to send word about your adventures. We’ll want to hear all about them.”

  Spinel grinned. “And don’t forget to bring back rare ingredients for us to work with!”

  “I’ll do my best,” I promised.

  Finally, I spoke to the four mature goblins: Nata, Keiko, Sato, and Bloody. They were in the training grounds, sparring with one another. When I told them about my decision, Keiko was the first to respond.

  “Leaving already? And here I thought we’d have more time to spar,” she teased.

  “I’m not gone forever,” I said. “But I need to do this. You four are strong enough to protect the mansion and everyone here. I’m counting on you.”

  Bloody crossed her arms, a small smile on her face. “We’ll make sure everything’s safe while you’re gone. Just don’t forget to keep training, or we’ll surpass you.”

  Sato nodded. “And bring back stories. I love a good tale of adventure.”

  Nata, ever composed, simply said, “We understand. Go, and may your journey be fruitful.”

  The next morning, I stood at the gates with Sayo and Lucaus by my side. The rest of the mansion’s residents had gathered to see us off.

  Mary hugged me tightly one last time, whispering, “Stay safe, my son.”

  Shiori and Hina handed me a small pouch filled with supplies. “For the road,” Hina said with a smile.

  Alma, Felicia, and Spinel waved from the steps, while the four goblins stood stoically nearby.

  As I turned to leave, I looked back one last time, taking in the faces of everyone I cared about.

  “Goodbye, everyone,” I said. “I’ll return stronger than ever.”

  With that, we set off down the path, the royal capital awaiting us.

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