Omega Taming the Black Moonlight - Chapter 56

Yan Liu startled back a step, colliding with the cabin door. Ji Yilian gently pulled her back by the arm.

 

“Careful, pay attention,” Ji Yilian said calmly, her tone laced with tenderness.

 

Yan Liu found this side of Ji Yilian utterly unfamiliar.

 

She couldn’t help but mentally ask the System, “Is this enough? Has Ji Yilian’s affection for me reached the required level?”

 

System: I’m sorry, Host. The target’s Favorability Value has not yet reached 90.

 

No matter how Yan Liu called out, the System remained silent, as if it had ceased to exist.

 

Yan Liu could only sigh inwardly. Even this isn’t enough for 90 points?

 

What level of affection would it take to reach 90 points?

 

Would she have to stay here and marry Ji Yilian?

 

Oh no, Yan Liu couldn’t even bear to imagine it.

 

Her gaze toward Ji Yilian suddenly carried a hint of pitiful pleading.

 

Ji Yilian: “Did you hurt yourself?”

 

She assumed Yan Liu had backed up and bumped her entire body against the aircraft cabin door.

 

After all, she knew how delicate Yan Liu’s physique was as an Omega.

 

During combat training, Yan Liu was already covered in bruises even before Ji Yilian had exerted even a fraction of her full strength. The pitiful sight brought tears to Yan Liu’s eyes right then and there.

 

So delicate, yet she insists on acting tough in front of me.

 

Ji Yilian paused, then reached out to gently pat Yan Liu’s head twice.

 

“Let’s go. I’ll take you home.”

 

The head pats only deepened Yan Liu’s distress.

 

She didn’t want to take things further with Ji Yilian.

 

She had a growing sense that if she continued down this path, she wouldn’t be able to escape unscathed.

 

“Why so glum?”

 

As Ji Yilian escorted Yan Liu to her doorstep, she leaned down slightly, her gentle gaze fixed on the girl in the hallway. Her voice was soft and warm.

 

Yan Liu pressed her lips together, silent.

 

She didn’t know how to explain.

 

On one hand, she desperately wanted Ji Yilian to fall for her—to become utterly obsessed, so deeply in love that she couldn’t bear to part with her, consumed by fervent devotion.

 

Only then could Yan Liu achieve her conquest objective and secure a 100% Favorability Value.

 

Yet on the other hand, she was terrified.

 

Emotions that surged too quickly were like tornadoes—would they sweep her up, leaving her disoriented and overwhelmed?

 

Her heart was torn between conflicting desires.

 

Yan Liu was caught in a state of wanting both, her own contradictions twisting her into an impossible knot.

 

She wasn’t a proper strategist.

 

So, it wasn’t as easy as it seemed in novels for protagonists who transmigrated with a System to consistently pursue the villain.

 

Even actors needed to maintain a sense of conviction.

 

But she lacked it.

 

The girl, her lips pressed together and head bowed, appeared irresistibly adorable to Ji Yilian at that moment.

 

Such a petite figure—Ji Yilian could easily lift her with minimal effort.

 

She had held Yan Liu before.

 

Yan Liu’s body was soft, fragrant, and practically weightless.

 

At least, it felt like no burden to her.

 

Yet this Yan Liu had so many quirks, occasionally falling into sudden fits of gloom.

 

Her dejected demeanor was impossible to ignore, making Ji Yilian want to crouch down and coax her until she smiled again.

 

“Ji Yilian,” Yan Liu said dryly.

 

“Hmm?” Ji Yilian replied, not pressing her, simply waiting patiently.

 

Like a wolf guarding a burrow, waiting for the little rabbit to emerge willingly.

 

Wolves were born predators, their carnivorous nature endowing them with keen instincts and unwavering resolve.

 

They knew how to use patience to hunt the prey they desired.

 

Seeing Ji Yilian’s unwavering patience, Yan Liu didn’t rush to speak, as if gathering a bit of courage.

 

Yan Liu lifted her gaze, her teary almond eyes fixed on Ji Yilian, her red lips pressed into a thin line.

 

“Could you promise me… not to kiss me anymore, or do anything intimate? I’m scared…”

 

Yan Liu looked utterly pitiful in that moment, her vulnerability tugging at Ji Yilian’s heartstrings.

 

Ji Yilian’s eyes darkened. “Why? Not even as your girlfriend?”

 

Yan Liu whispered, “No. You can only like me and be close to me in spirit, but not physically. I… I don’t like that.”

 

She only wanted to conquer Ji Yilian spiritually, to raise her Favorability Value, but she wasn’t willing to sacrifice herself in the process.

 

As she spoke, Yan Liu’s head drooped again.

 

In a normal reality, she would never act this way. If she didn’t like something, she simply didn’t like it and would keep her distance from anyone. But because she had to complete the System’s missions to survive, she had to conquer Ji Yilian.

 

For some reason, she felt unusually sentimental today, even avoiding Ji Yilian’s gaze. The more deeply Ji Yilian looked at her, the more conflicted she became.

 

It had only been a few days, yet Yan Liu was already starting to forget the “Scumbag A” impression she had formed of Ji Yilian in her mind.

 

“Look up,” Ji Yilian’s voice came from above.

 

“Look at me.” Her voice was calm.

 

Yan Liu slowly raised her eyes, her gaze slightly flustered.

 

“I won’t do anything you don’t like.”

 

Ji Yilian’s slender fingers gently pinched Yan Liu’s cheek. The soft flesh felt like tofu, making her reluctant to apply any pressure.

 

“I have some business to attend to and will be away for a few days,” Ji Yilian said, abruptly changing the subject.

 

“The training ground I took you to today has already registered your information. You can use it whenever you want.”

 

She sounded exactly like someone going on a business trip after falling in love, dutifully informing her partner.

 

Yan Liu’s ears warmed again, but she tried to remain calm, nodding lightly.

 

“Okay.”

 

Perfect timing, she thought. Ji Yilian’s departure would give her time to sort out her feelings.

 

Seeing Yan Liu’s obedient nod, as if she would agree to anything Ji Yilian asked, Ji Yilian leaned closer, closing the distance between them.

 

Yan Liu’s back pressed against the wall, her senses on high alert.

 

“What’s wrong?”

 

Ji Yilian’s crimson lips curved into a smile, her features striking, and her eyes surprisingly clear.

 

“Stay wary of other Alphas.”

 

“Hmm?”

 

Unable to resist, Ji Yilian reached out and gently pinched Yan Liu’s delicate chin.

 

Yan Liu’s face flushed crimson. After a moment of hesitation, she whispered, “Of course.”

 

She was even wary of Ji Yilian herself, let alone anyone else.

 

Seeing Yan Liu’s obedient response, Ji Yilian’s lips curved into a satisfied smile.

 

Yet she didn’t leave, her gaze remaining fixed on Yan Liu.

 

“Is there anything else you want to tell me?”

 

Yan Liu blinked, looking adorably blank, and shook her head.

 

“No, nothing else.”

 

What else should I say?

 

“Oh! I just remembered.” Yan Liu clenched her fist, finally recalling what she should say in this situation.

 

“What is it?” Ji Yilian asked, playing along.

 

Yan Liu lifted her chin, her almond-shaped eyes sparkling, and enunciated each word clearly:

 

“You must also keep your distance from other Omegas. Not just Omegas—men and women alike.”

 

She vaguely remembered that shortly after the Arena Competition, Ji Yilian would encounter her destined heroine in the plot, and even a male Omega would actively pursue her!

 

It was all a chaotic mess, the storyline utterly convoluted.

 

Though she didn’t particularly like Ji Yilian, now that she had decided to pursue her, she wouldn’t allow Ji Yilian to even glance at anyone else.

 

Yan Liu stared into Ji Yilian’s eyes, her voice soft but her demeanor radiating a charming, haughty pride, like a noble cat princess.

 

Ji Yilian almost wanted to offer her hand for the little princess to step on.

 

“I won’t pay attention to anyone else,” she promised softly.

 

Yan Liu’s face lit up with joy.

 

After her initial happiness, she couldn’t help but fixate on Ji Yilian’s eyes.

 

“But what if your Instructor Green Silk tries to arrange a marriage for you, say with someone from the Royal Family or a noble house? What would you do?”

 

This scenario had actually occurred in the original plot.

 

Yan Liu hadn’t considered this possibility before.

 

But perhaps because someone had kissed her today, she suddenly found herself caring deeply about such matters.

 

Under Yan Liu’s intense gaze from those dewy, almond-shaped eyes, Ji Yilian’s heart stirred slightly.

 

“I would refuse,” she replied succinctly, her answer firm and decisive.

 

Hearing this, Yan Liu felt a surge of satisfaction.

 

Regardless of what the future held, at least for now, Ji Yilian had given her a clear and reassuring answer.

 

“Then you’d better keep your word, my soon-to-be girlfriend.”

 

Yan Liu reached out her hand.

 

Ji Yilian immediately understood what she wanted to do and leaned forward in cooperation, offering her face.

 

Yan Liu’s hand landed on her long hair.

 

The girl gently ruffled it.

 

Ji Yilian’s usually smooth black hair stood up a little from the girl’s touch, creating a disarming contrast to her cold, aloof demeanor and softening her aura.

 

Yan Liu watched, unable to suppress a soft chuckle.

 

“Happy now?” Ji Yilian narrowed her eyes, her gaze lingering on the girl’s rosy lips. “If I do as you say, will there be a reward?”

 

Her eyes burned with intensity.

 

Yan Liu abruptly withdrew her hand, suddenly understanding what kind of reward the other woman wanted.

 

“No… there’s no reward.”

 

She glared at Ji Yilian, flustered and indignant, but her eyes shimmered with tender affection, making her look irresistibly alluring.

 

As if struck by selective amnesia, Ji Yilian leaned closer.

 

Before Yan Liu could react, her hands were gently restrained, and a soft kiss landed on her cheek.

 

Yan Liu’s almond-shaped eyes widened in disbelief.

 

She watched as Ji Yilian, who had just kissed her, smiled like a cat who had just gotten a treat, her phoenix eyes sparkling with delight.

 

“I’ll just overdraw a bit. After all, you’ll be my girlfriend eventually, so you deserve a reward,” Ji Yilian replied calmly.

 

Yan Liu was furious, clenching her small fist to strike her.

 

Ji Yilian gently caught her hand. “You can hit me, but for every hit, I’ll give you a kiss.”

 

Yan Liu finally understood what it meant to be shameless and invincible.

 

That was exactly what Ji Yilian was.

 

Yan Liu froze, completely stunned.

 

She stared intently at Ji Yilian’s overwhelmingly beautiful face, momentarily doubting if she had hallucinated the words she’d just heard.

 

How could such a cold and aloof face display such a sly expression?

 

How could her ears have heard such brazen words?

 

The ultimate Scumbag A! Truly living up to the title!

 

Yan Liu pressed her lips together, trying to withdraw her hand.

 

But Ji Yilian pulled her hand forward, guiding Yan Liu’s still-clenched fist to strike her chest. She lowered her head and chuckled softly.

 

The smile was utterly captivating, not deliberately seductive, but naturally alluring.

 

“This hit makes up for the kiss earlier,” she said matter-of-factly, as if tearing up a debt note and writing it off.

 

Yan Liu’s teeth itched with fury.

 

“Thank you for canceling my debt on the spot.”

 

Ji Yilian raised an eyebrow. “No need to thank me. I keep my promises. Every debt must be repaid.”

 

Yan Liu glared at her, her eyes sparkling with anger.

 

Ji Yilian realized she was starting to lose control of her words.

 

“If you keep looking at me like that, I won’t be able to resist.”

 

Yan Liu quickly closed her eyes.

 

It had become a conditioned reflex.

 

But the next moment, she felt another soft, warm touch on her face.

 

Yan Liu slowly opened her eyes, only to see Ji Yilian watching her with a teasing smile.

 

Ahhh! How could Ji Yilian be so wicked?!

 

Yan Liu finally snapped, raising her hand to strike.

 

Her small fist landed on Ji Yilian’s shoulder with a thud.

 

Yet Ji Yilian neither flinched nor dodged, nor did she try to grab Yan Liu’s hands this time. She simply smiled and let Yan Liu hit her.

 

When Yan Liu’s hand began to ache and she stopped, Ji Yilian calmly said, “Twenty-six.”

 

Yan Liu’s heart skipped a beat. Her almond-shaped eyes fixed on Ji Yilian, already guessing what she was about to say.

 

She swiftly raised her hand and pressed her palm against Ji Yilian’s crimson lips.

 

“Don’t say another word!”

 

She was terrified of what that mouth might utter next. Twenty-six meant twenty-six kisses.

 

Oh my god!

 

Ji Yilian remained silent, her exquisite phoenix eyes narrowed slightly. After a moment, she pursed her lips and gently kissed the tip of Yan Liu’s finger.

 

Yan Liu jerked her hand back as if burned, hiding it behind her back.

 

Waaah, I’m about to cry!

 

What do I do, System? What do I do?

 

She realized Ji Yilian seemed to have developed some kind of “skin hunger” syndrome. Ever since that kiss in the underwater restaurant, she had completely abandoned all restraint.

 

Before, Yan Liu could at least rely on their “three rules” to keep Ji Yilian in line and maintain some distance.

 

Now, the agreement was utterly useless!

 

Yan Liu desperately tried to assert herself, trying to act fiercer, colder, and ideally, reverse the power dynamic and dominate Ji Yilian’s aura.

 

But flustered and humiliated, she felt panicked and awkward, wanting nothing more than to shrink into herself.

 

“Ji Yilian, I’m going to hate you!”

 

In her panic, Yan Liu could only blurt out this clumsy threat, her back pressed against the door.

 

Ji Yilian: “You don’t like me now anyway.”

 

Her voice carried a hint of resentment, leaving Yan Liu speechless.

 

It was true—she didn’t like Ji Yilian.

 

So threatening to hate her carried no weight at all.

 

“Hmph,” she huffed, darting inside and slamming the door shut, leaving only a palm-sized face peeking through the crack. “You’d better go cool down. Otherwise, I won’t talk to you next time.”

 

After holding back for so long, she finally felt a flicker of control in her own territory.

 

Ji Yilian remained noncommittal, arms crossed as she stood in the doorway. She made no move to force her way in, simply fixed her gaze on the girl.

 

“That’s fine. I’ll come find you to talk.”

 

It was only now that Ji Yilian realized how deeply ingrained her aggressive nature truly ran.

 

Whenever she saw Yan Liu shrink into herself, flustered and trying to hide, her bl00d surged with an even fiercer exhilaration.

 

This feeling surpassed even the reckless abandon of fighting to the death against the Insectoid hordes in the Abyss.

 

Ji Yilian was almost starting to relish this sensation.

 

Yan Liu saw the glint in her eyes and knew Ji Yilian was up to no good.

 

She slammed the door shut, a muffled voice barely audible from behind it: “Goodbye! Go away now!”

 

Heh.

 

Despite being shut out, Ji Yilian chuckled softly behind the door.

 

After Yan Liu closed the door, she pressed her ear against it, listening intently for any sounds from outside.

 

Little Nugget, the biomimetic intelligent butler hiding in the house, rolled over from Yan Liu’s bedroom on its tiny wheels, purring softly as it approached her.

 

Seeing it, Yan Liu made a “shush” gesture, signaling it to be quiet.

 

Little Nugget nodded its square head and stood beside her.

 

After a while, Ji Yilian’s voice drifted through the door.

 

“I’m leaving now. Take care of yourself these next few days.”

 

Yan Liu leaned against Little Nugget, her voice tinged with mock arrogance.

 

“Of course I’ll take care of myself.”

 

She wasn’t a child, after all.

 

Ji Yilian had never been this clingy before. Why was she suddenly sticking to her like a magnet?

 

Yan Liu found it unsettling.

 

Little Nugget tilted its head, listening to the sounds outside with Yan Liu. After a moment, it said in a gentle voice, “Master, Master, the person outside has left.”

 

Strictly speaking, Little Nugget’s voice was gender-neutral, like that of a child, making it sound utterly adorable.

 

Yan Liu loved innocent things, and this helped her relax.

 

Hearing Little Nugget speak, Yan Liu patted its square head.

 

“Thank you, Little Nugget. Did you have a good day at home?”

 

As a Biomimetic Intelligent Butler with a degree of artificial intelligence, Little Nugget responded in its crisp, clear voice:

 

“Happy! Little Nugget did a thorough cleaning today and wiped everything down.”

 

“Little Nugget also aired out Master’s bedroom quilt on the balcony and has already remade the bed.”

 

“Little Nugget prepared five dishes for Master. Are you hungry?”

 

Listening to Little Nugget list its accomplishments for the day, Yan Liu felt both warmth and a pang of guilt.

 

“You’ve worked so hard, Little Nugget. Aren’t you tired?”

 

Little Nugget immediately shook its head so vigorously that Yan Liu grew worried it might fall off, instinctively reaching out to steady it.

 

“Not tired at all! Being able to serve Master and help around the house makes Little Nugget happy.”

 

Yan Liu was genuinely moved by these words.

 

She finally understood the true benefits of technological advancement in the Interstellar Era.

 

An Intelligent Butler was more than just a servant; it was a personal friend who handled chores, showed genuine concern, and provided emotional support.

 

In fact, if Yan Liu dared to take Little Nugget out without fear of exposure, he could even serve as her personal bodyguard.

 

Yan Liu had never seen Little Nugget’s second form—the Combat Mecha form.

 

But she had read the documentation, which described how the Intelligent Butler would automatically transform into Combat Mecha mode to protect its Master in times of danger.

 

Unfortunately, Yan Liu wasn’t a combat enthusiast. She had only glanced at this feature, gained a basic understanding, and then dismissed it.

 

She much preferred the practical functions Little Nugget provided in daily life.

 

However… she had already had dinner with Ji Yilian tonight, and her stomach was still full…

 

The thought of wasting the dinner Little Nugget had prepared tonight filled her with guilt.

 

“Little Nugget, I’ve already eaten dinner tonight…”

 

The Intelligent Butler’s wheels skidded slightly on the floor.

 

“That’s no problem, Master. Little Nugget can contact the local wanderer groups and donate the unused dinner. It won’t go to waste.”

 

Yan Liu was surprised by this.

 

“Can it really do that?” Yan Liu asked, surprised.

 

Little Nugget shook its large head. “Of course, Master.”

 

Hearing that the dinner Little Nugget had prepared wouldn’t go to waste, Yan Liu felt relieved. But she couldn’t help adding, “Actually, you could just save it for me. I can eat it tomorrow morning.”

 

Before she transmigrated, Yan Liu had lived with her grandfather, and they hadn’t had much money. If they didn’t finish a meal, they’d usually save it for the next one.

 

But Little Nugget objected. “That’s not allowed, Master. Leftover dinner isn’t as nutritious or healthy as fresh food. Little Nugget won’t be lazy and will prepare every meal perfectly for you. There will be new food tomorrow morning. Taking care of you is Little Nugget’s duty, and ensuring your health and happiness is my mission and the very reason for my existence.”

 

After saying this, Little Nugget even reached out and patted Yan Liu’s shoulder reassuringly.

 

This is too human-like!

 

Waaah, I’m so touched!

 

Yan Liu sometimes felt guarded around humans, but she had absolutely no resistance against this selfless Intelligent Butler.

 

“Little Nugget, you’re the best,” Yan Liu exclaimed, even leaning down to hug the little robot.

 

When she entered her room, she noticed the bed had been rearranged, now positioned more neatly.

 

The quilt on the bed was spread out like a work of art. As she approached and flopped onto it, the soft quilt enveloped her, radiating a warm, sun-dried fragrance.

 

Wow. This is pure bliss.

 

Who could truly understand the sheer joy of returning home after a long day of fighting—no, competing—and successfully winning over Ji Yilian, finally able to completely relax and sink into this warm, cozy bed?

 

Yan Liu couldn’t resist rolling around on the bed.

 

Little Nugget stood quietly beside her. “Master, would you like me to play some music for you?”

 

Its intelligent central processing unit had detected that Yan Liu was fatigued, likely from recent physical activity.

 

Soothing music could help humans relax after exertion, improve their mood, and even aid sleep.

 

“Wow, Little Nugget, you’re so thoughtful!”

 

Yan Liu wanted to send a red envelope to whoever designed this intelligent butler.

 

How did they make it so perfect?!

 

Having such a personal butler truly elevated one’s sense of happiness.

 

With Yan Liu’s consent, Little Nugget began playing soothing music.

 

She lay motionless on the bed, listening quietly, but her mind couldn’t help replaying all the events of the day.

 

Ji Yilian’s face suddenly flashed into Yan Liu’s mind.

 

Before she could react, her mind began replaying today’s intimate encounters on loop.

 

That kiss at the underwater restaurant…

 

Yan Liu nearly cried out, twisting into a pretzel on the bed, her face burning with shame and irritation.

 

She was furious with Ji Yilian.

 

But the woman was like water off a duck’s back. No matter what Yan Liu said, Ji Yilian maintained her detached demeanor, outwardly agreeing to everything while continuing to do as she pleased, showing no restraint whatsoever.

 

The thought of how much she’d been taken advantage of made Yan Liu’s almond-shaped eyes glisten with anger.

 

Sensing Yan Liu’s racing heartbeat, Little Nugget immediately rolled over to her side, its wheels whirring with concern.

 

“Master, why are you so angry?”

 

The Intelligent Butler could detect human vital signs and provide basic medical assistance. It automatically assessed situations and acted accordingly.

 

Even though Yan Liu was merely reliving the day’s events, Little Nugget noticed her unusually rapid heartbeat.

 

The music it played was meant to be calming and soothing.

 

Why is Master getting angrier and even blushing?

 

Little Nugget squatted before Yan Liu, its boxy head brimming with curiosity, as if eager to understand why its data was inaccurate so it could improve.

 

Yan Liu: “……”

 

What should I do? Suddenly, I feel like my Intelligent Butler is too intelligent. It’s not a good thing.

 

How could she possibly tell Little Nugget that her heart was racing and she was upset because she had been thinking about Ji Yilian kissing her?

 

“Little Nugget, I want to ask you something. Do you know how to make someone fall in love with you, deeply and passionately, while maintaining physical distance and preventing them from kissing or touching you?”

 

Yan Liu overcame her embarrassment and decided to seek professional help.

 

As an Intelligent Butler, Little Nugget should have information on how to handle such situations in its database, right?

 

Her mind was in a turmoil, and she desperately needed someone to offer advice.

 

Little Nugget froze for a moment.

 

“Master!”

 

“Little Nugget can go beat her up for you! No one can bully Master! I am Master’s personal Butler and bodyguard. Little Nugget will protect you!”

 

Yan Liu stared in stunned silence before bursting into laughter.

 

“No one’s bullying me. I was just asking a hypothetical question.”

 

She was genuinely touched by Little Nugget’s unwavering devotion. It truly prioritized her well-being above all else.

 

Ji Yilian would never do that.

 

Hmph. Ji Yilian only took advantage of her shyness and slow reactions to… to bully her.

 

Yan Liu opened her Smart Brain, and, fueled by anger, immediately sent Ji Yilian a message:

 

Cosmicly Invincible Big Bad Wolf!

 

Ji Yilian replied instantly:

 

Want me to come keep you company?

 

Startled, Yan Liu quickly tossed aside her Smart Brain.

 

No, no, no!

 

Yan Liu was genuinely frightened, terrified that Ji Yilian might suddenly return to find her.

 

“Didn’t you have something important to attend to? Hurry along. Don’t let me delay you.”

 

Remembering her mission to win Ji Yilian over, the girl hastily added, “I wouldn’t want to hold you back.”

 

Little Nugget tilted its head, observing Yan Liu from the side.

 

“Master, should I prepare a warm bath for you? I can fill the tub in advance.”

 

Data indicated that Yan Liu’s heart rate had begun to accelerate again, a mix of fear and embarrassment.

 

Distracted by Little Nugget, Yan Liu looked at it through tear-filled eyes.

 

“Okay. Thank you, Little Nugget.”

 

Little Nugget immediately busied itself preparing the bathroom.

 

When Yan Liu went to check, she discovered that it had somehow obtained flower petals and scattered them across the bathwater, creating a surprisingly beautiful effect.

 

This small, unexpected touch of beauty helped ease the tension in Yan Liu’s mood.

 

She submerged herself in the tub, holding her breath for a long moment before resurfacing.

 

Good heavens, Ji Yilian is such a difficult target to win over!

 

It wasn’t that Ji Yilian was inherently hard to conquer… it was that conquering her would require Yan Liu to completely lose herself in the process, something she hadn’t prepared for.

 

Seeing Yan Liu’s deep distress, the System silently showed her a scene.

 

Yan Liu froze.

 

It was a hospital room in a modern setting.

 

She saw herself lying in bed, pale-faced, while her classmates took turns visiting her.

 

What struck Yan Liu most wasn’t her own appearance or that of her classmates and teachers, but her grandfather in the corner.

 

His white hair seemed even more prominent, and his back appeared to have hunched over significantly overnight. His entire posture sagged, and he forced out ingratiating, grateful smiles for the students.

 

Yan Liu couldn’t bear to watch any longer. Her heart felt like it was being stabbed, as if it were about to bleed.

 

Once the System stopped transmitting the images to her mind, Yan Liu fell silent. She didn’t say a word, nor did she press the System for further explanations.

 

The situation was now crystal clear.

 

If she didn’t complete her strategy mission properly and return, her grandfather would face a future of old age without support or care, and he would have to bury his own grandchild.

 

This was something Yan Liu could never accept.

 

Her grandfather had already endured enough hardship in his life. She couldn’t let his final years be so desolate.

 

Yan Liu emerged from the bathtub, her gaze now far more resolute than before.

 

She would no longer hesitate or overthink things.

 

Whatever might happen with Ji Yilian, she would strive to complete her mission.

 

Before going to bed, Yan Liu sent Ji Yilian a video message:

 

“When are you coming back?”

 

At that moment, Ji Yilian was in Instructor Green Silk’s reception room, surrounded by the Academy’s most promising students.

 

The majority were Alphas, both male and female, with very few Omegas present.

 

Green Silk gestured for everyone to look at the holographic display.

 

“Your performance in the Arena Competition has been deeply disappointing. Especially you, Ji Yilian. Your loss in the preliminary rounds has severely damaged your reputation.”

 

“The Royal Family invited us here mid-competition because they recognize the potential in this group. Princess Isa and Prince Gu Tan make it a point to follow the Arena Competition every year. Do you realize what you stand to lose by performing poorly? A golden opportunity to rise through the ranks.”

 

“Tianyi Academy is a small stage. Don’t think that awakening your Spiritual Bodies, having slightly higher Spiritual Power levels, or even surviving the Abyss War entitles you to stand on equal footing with the upper-class Nobles.”

 

As Instructor Green Silk spoke, the others in the reception hall glanced sideways at Ji Yilian, knowing that the final two sentences were veiled criticisms directed at her.

 

After all, within the entire Tianyi Academy, Ji Yilian was the only one who fit the characteristics Instructor Green Silk described.

 

Someone who had awakened exceptionally high Spiritual Power and could participate in the Abyss War at such a young age was hardly as common as cheap cabbage. On the contrary, she was exceedingly rare and exceptional, practically record-breaking.

 

It could only be said that Ji Yilian’s sudden loss to an Omega in the preliminary rounds due to a recurrence of an old injury had been such a shocking upset that it had infuriated Instructor Green Silk.

 

Commoners always placed particular importance on social mobility.

 

Having been an orphan herself, Instructor Green Silk had always seen Ji Yilian as someone who carried her hopes and expectations.

 

Buzz, buzz, buzz.

 

Ji Yilian glanced at the message on her Smart Brain.

 

“I’ll be right back,” she said, rising from her seat.

 

The others exchanged uneasy glances, instinctively looking between her and Instructor Green Silk.

 

Instructor Green Silk’s words had been interrupted, and by her own prized disciple no less. Her expression darkened.

 

Yet Ji Yilian strode out of the reception hall without hesitation.

 

When will you be back?

 

Yan Liu’s soft, delicate voice drifted through the air.

 

Perhaps feeling sleepy and a little tired, Yan Liu seemed even gentler than usual.

 

The girl appeared to have just showered, her hair freshly dried. Her long, loose locks cascaded over her shoulders like seaweed, accentuating her flower-like, exquisite features.

 

Her thick, fan-like eyelashes framed light brown eyes that sparkled like precious gems.

 

Behind Yan Liu, the fluffy duvet lay draped halfway across her legs.

 

Dressed only in a nightgown, presumably ready for bed, her fair collarbones and shoulders were barely concealed, hinting at her slender, graceful figure.

 

The hem of the gown didn’t quite cover her legs. Yan Liu raised a hand to cover her rosy lips and let out a small yawn, causing tears to well up in her eyes.

 

Yan Liu’s eyes were already stunning—clear as mirrors when calm, yet adorably dreamy when relaxed.

 

Her eyes, usually sharp and composed, now shimmered with a sleepy softness, making the recorded image even more endearing and heart-melting.

 

The corners of Ji Yilian’s lips curved upward. She even replayed the clip twice.

 

With her S-Rank Spiritual Power, Ji Yilian could easily memorize anything she saw at a glance.

 

A single viewing was enough for her to mentally reconstruct every detail of the video.

 

Yet she found herself rewatching it endlessly, never tiring of it.

 

Whether it was the girl’s tear-filled almond eyes, her damp, curled lashes, or her overly rosy lips, every detail tugged at her heart.

 

As she clicked to play the video for the third time, she finally noticed Instructor Green Silk approaching.

 

Ji Yilian calmly closed the video, her expression reverting to its usual cold indifference. She raised her gaze to meet the newcomer’s eyes.

 

Instructor Green Silk’s flamboyant golden hair and piercing eyes gave her a sharp, intimidating presence.

 

Though her features weren’t as sculpted as Ji Yilian’s, her forceful demeanor made her resemble a drawn weapon—cold, ruthless, and utterly devoid of warmth.

 

Now, she frowned at Ji Yilian, her voice sharp.

 

“Yi Lian, what’s been going on with you lately?”

 

“Is it because of that Omega? What kind of spell has she cast on you? You’re ignoring my advice, throwing away your future?”

 

As she spoke, Instructor Green Silk’s chest heaved with frustration, unable to comprehend Ji Yilian’s actions.

 

Ji Yilian pressed her lips into a tight line. “I’m sorry.”

 

She hadn’t intended to disappoint Instructor Green Silk.

 

Ji Yilian always held a deep respect for the mentor who had pulled her from her orphaned life to her current position.

 

In a way, Instructor Green Silk was like a parent to her—the only difference being the absence of bl00d ties.

 

“Mentor, she has a name. Her name is Yan Liu.”

 

Ji Yilian’s expression remained calm. Tall and slender, with long, well-proportioned legs, she possessed a rare grace that prevented her height from becoming awkward.

 

Her soft-spoken defense of Yan Liu before Instructor Green Silk was a stark contrast to her usual demeanor.

 

Green Silk stared in disbelief. “What are you saying?”

 

Ji Yilian remained silent, her lowered gaze conveying her disapproval.

 

She disliked how Instructor Green Silk always referred to Yan Liu as “that Omega.” It sounded dismissive and disrespectful.

 

Alphas often harbored a natural sense of superiority, believing themselves to be inherently superior due to their physical strength, explosive power, and ability to fight on the front lines.

 

This ingrained belief placed them at the top of the social hierarchy.

 

In comparison, Omegas seemed as delicate and fragile as vines, contributing far less than Alphas.

 

Instructor Green Silk was a prime example of an Alpha who held this belief.

 

Watching her proud disciple, Ji Yilian, fiercely defend Yan Liu, Green Silk’s brow furrowed deeply.

 

“It seems your Spiritual Body needs healing. You’ve been acting strangely ever since you left the Arena last time.”

 

She preferred to believe that Ji Yilian’s Spiritual Body had been damaged, making her easily drawn to such an unremarkable Omega.

 

Indeed, Yan Liu—an Omega who only awakened his Talent Potion-enhanced abilities upon reaching adulthood through the Arena Competition—was practically the most useless type.

 

Green Silk despised such weakness.

 

Therefore, as soon as she finalized a healing session with the esteemed S-Class Healer, Ji Yilian would surely regain her clarity and return to her former, normal self.

 

“Judging by your current state, it’s unwise to meet with the Royal Family and Nobles. Forget the original plan. Before we depart in the next few days, we’ll visit the S-Class Healer first. Ideally, you should undergo a healing session to see if your condition improves.”

 

As for herself, Green Silk subconsciously placed her own needs last.

 

Unlike young, hopeful individuals like Ji Yilian, she wasn’t in a rush to repair her Spiritual Body. Her future was already set, with little room for advancement.

 

But Ji Yilian was at a critical stage of her life’s development, where any misstep or delay could have serious consequences.

 

Sensing Instructor Green Silk’s genuine concern, Ji Yilian moved her lips, but ultimately said nothing.

 

Her heart was filled with complex emotions.

 

Instructor Green Silk had been a true benefactor, guiding her along her life’s path and providing countless opportunities that would have been inaccessible to someone of her social class.

 

Now, this person who had placed such high hopes on her was disappointed by her recent performance.

 

Perhaps… she really needed to consider whether she was normal.

 

No one else knew why Instructor Green Silk had never considered marriage.

 

Only Ji Yilian knew the truth: years ago, during a wilderness training exercise, they had encountered a lone mutated monster. Green Silk had been injured while saving her.

 

Instructor Green Silk had once been in love, but after sustaining an injury that damaged her glands, rendering her unable to bear children, she grew increasingly cold and distant toward all Omegas.

 

During her recovery, Instructor Green Silk missed the long-awaited Promotion Tournament.

 

Defeating the Nobles in the Promotion Tournament would have granted her a chance at promotion, possibly even a Noble Title, and a transfer to the Capital City where the Royal Family resided.

 

For Instructor Green Silk, who had risen step by step from orphanhood to her current position, this opportunity was paramount.

 

It represented a dream that could completely transform her life and destiny.

 

But in the end, it all vanished…

 

Even the Medical Pod had its limitations.

 

It couldn’t fully heal Instructor Green Silk, nor could it restore her to her former self, allowing her to participate in the crucial Promotion Tournament.

 

As these memories resurfaced, Ji Yilian’s mood grew heavier.

 

Even her exhaled breath carried the weight of profound gratitude.

 

The emotions stirred by Yan Liu’s video call earlier suddenly calmed.

 

Ji Yilian deliberately forced herself not to think about Yan Liu.

 

Yan Liu waited in bed for a long time, tossing and turning and hugging her pillow, cycling through six different sleeping positions.

 

Yet Ji Yilian still hadn’t replied!

 

Normally, Ji Yilian responded instantly!

 

Could it be that the video she’d sent earlier wasn’t attractive enough? Or… perhaps it was too contrived?

 

Yan Liu replayed the video, scrutinizing it from every angle, but she still couldn’t figure out why.

 

She had deliberately shown off her thighs, after all.

 

She distinctly remembered Ji Yilian visiting her home once and staring at her legs the entire time she sat there!

 

Had she misjudged her target’s preferences?

 

If Ji Yilian didn’t like legs, did she perhaps prefer… Yan Liu couldn’t help but lower her gaze, sneaking a glance at her chest.

 

No. Waaah, no way!

 

She was trying to conquer Ji Yilian! To conquer her spiritually, to tame her—not to resort to cheap tricks!

 

The next morning, when Yan Liu opened her Healer account, she found an overwhelming number of messages.

 

So many red notification dots! Too many to even bother reading. She decided to set them aside for now.

 

Later, she planned to have the Smart Brain automatically filter out Healing clients who met her criteria.

 

This project absolutely had to move forward.

 

Just as she was thinking this, she received a message from Green Silk, marked as a “Special Client.”

 

“Would you be available for a healing session in the next few days?”

 

The other party’s tone was exceptionally polite and cautious.

 

This made Yan Liu couldn’t help but compare it to the last time Instructor Green Silk had interrupted her conversation with Ji Yilian.

 

It seemed that once someone possessed true power, even those considered “strong” by others would adopt a respectful attitude when speaking to them.

 

“I’m available,” Yan Liu replied after a moment’s thought.

 

Green Silk on the other end immediately lit up with overwhelming joy.

 

Through the Healer account, they finalized the meeting location and time:

 

Tomorrow, at Yan Liu’s private office building.

 

“May I ask how you prefer to be addressed?” Green Silk added.

 

Yan Liu considered for a moment before replying, “Just call me Mu Mao.”

 

Mu Mao. Liu.

 

She decided to plant this little clue and see how long it would take Ji Yilian to notice.