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"Come back soon," Lucetta said as she hugged Naofumi.

Malty tried not to glare. Then she was the one being hugged, and she even hugged the peasant woman back. "We'll see." Perhaps she'd take her up on her offer the next time. She'd need some time to think it over carefully.

A lot of the villagers had gathered to see them off.

"Shield Hero," one of them said, probably some kind of leader. He went into an explanation of how they'd processed the Chimera from the Wave and asked if Naofumi wanted some of it. Malty wasn't sure what he could do with that—hadn't his slaves stolen enough during the Wave?—but he had them load a good portion of the meat into a crate and heft onto the carriage.

Then they finally hit the road.

Raphtalia spent the time inside the carriage, studying her magic books. Naofumi and Malty rode in front, holding hands, talking about this and that. It was a beautiful day, and Malty was happy. There was a constant sense of excitement and wonder in her stomach. She felt free.

"Alright, we'll park the carriage here," Naofumi announced eventually. They'd halted on a rocky hill. It was quite high, overlooking the nearby territory. He jumped off the carriage and helped her down.

"Thank you."

Raphtalia climbed out of the carriage and removed the rains from Kuro's body.

Naofumi studied the map for a moment before packing it away. "Alright, everyone ready? Good, we'll take a little ride on Kuro until we arrive at the leveling territory." He helped Raphtalia up the Filolial's back.

I'm pretty sure she can do that on her own, Malty thought, a little irritated. In fact, I've seen her do that. "Are we going to leave the carriage here?"

"Yes. Come on. Let me help you up."

Frowning, Malty allowed it. She wasn't very eager to sit so close to Raphtalia, though.

"If someone is foolish enough to steal anything, Kuro will hunt them down." He made to climb onto Kuro's back as well. "Scoot a little closer, Malty."

Begrudgingly, she did, practically pressing against Raphtalia, who was pressed into Kuro's feathery neck. Naofumi took his spot behind her and hugged them both and gripped some feathers to stabilize.

This wasn't how I envisioned it, Malty thought, and her good mood soured. Her face itched where the Demi's hair touched her skin, and the smell was a little unpleasant. I can't wait to get my own Filolial.

"Let's go, Kuro!"

Riding on him through the city had been awkward and, admittedly, a little scary. Riding on him down a mountainside was worse, especially being wedged in-between her Naofumi and his pet slave. She held on for dear life, barely able to see anything.

When Naofumi finally called for Kuro to halt, Malty was thoroughly pissed. She fixated him with a glare when he helped her down and turned her head when he made to kiss her. At least, Raphtalia jumped down without needing his help again.

"Are you okay, Malty?"

"No, I'm not. Why did we have to do that?!"

"You'll live. Come on." Naofumi took her hand and took the lead.

"I mean, why even park the carriage there only for us to move away from it? That doesn't even make any sense!" Why not just travel until they met monsters?

"It's efficient."

"Is it?"

"You'll see later."

Malty huffed. She wanted to argue but shut her mouth. She glared at Raphtalia when she noticed the girl grinning shyly.

"Alright, get ready," Naofumi said.

Before them, the first monsters were becoming visible: Griffins. Quite big ones at that. Ranging from levels 40 to 50. There was a group of them on a meadow, a few stray ones here and there.

"We'll—"

"Mr. Naofumi," Raphtalia said. "Can I try something?"

"Uhm, sure. Go ahead."

Right, so my protests go ignored, but the moment she wants to "try something," he just agrees, Malty fumed.

Raphtalia chanted a spell. "First Hiding!" The air shimmered around her, then she was gone from view.

They waited patiently. What was she going to do? Malty looked toward one of the nearest monsters. If she planned to attack, it would be this one.

Suddenly, the Griffin's head fell off, severed, and Raphtalia's body became visible. Blood was coating her sword. She went to hack the body to pieces. Malty shivered. Had Raphtalia just killed it in a single hit?! Was that the power of the Class Upgrade?

They hurried over toward her, and Malty watched, quite appalled, as they absorbed bloodied bits and pieces of the large monster. Motoyasu had thankfully never done such a thing. How barbaric...

"Damn, Raphtalia," Naofumi said. "That was strong."

"Thank you, Mr. Naofumi." Raphtalia was beaming, and Malty hated her a little. "I read about it in the Assassin guidebook. When my enemy doesn't suspect my first attack, it does a lot more damage."

"Neat."

Great, Malty thought. So glad to know that she could kill me with a single hit in my sleep if she ever wanted to. She was starting to have some regrets. When Raphtalia grinned at her, as if thanking her for the book, she had trouble returning the gesture.

"Alright. Let's try something new now. Kuro, go ahead and draw the attention of some more Griffins but don't attack. Just lure them. I'll do the same. Then I'll try to get them to solely focus on me. Once they're all in one place, Malty will cast some spells to take them out. Sounds good?"

"What about you?" Malty asked. "I don't want to accidentally burn you."

"Right," Raphtalia agreed. "This sounds dangerous."

"Malty, I'm the Shield Hero. I can take some fire damage. I always have my abilities to protect me."

"I guess..."

"What about me?" Raphtalia asked. "What do I do?"

"You stay here and protect Malty."

"What?"

Malty crossed her arms. "I don't need a bodyguard."

"Can't I help too?" Raphtalia asked.

"Raphtalia. Can you outrun a Griffin?"

"No, I guess not."

"Then you can't help."

"But you can't outrun them either!"

"Yes, but I can protect myself from their attacks. Alright, come on, Kuro, let's do this." Not waiting for another objection, he and the Filolial dashed off.

Malty watched the whole thing with pursed lips. "Is he always like that?"

"Yes!" Raphtalia said, a bit whiny. "I always tell him that he needs to be more careful, but he never listens!"

That wasn't what Malty had meant, but that was true as well. Irritation aside, she couldn't help but worry when multiple Griffins started chasing her Naofumi, her heart skipping a beat whenever he got hit by a beak or talon. Kuro was having an easier time. With his speed, he ran circles around them.

Their paths crossed. Naofumi was using the golden goat Shield and activated its ability. Suddenly, the attention of all the Griffins shifted onto him and Kuro dashed away.

"Malty!" Raphtalia cried. "Now!"

Though she was tempted to wait a few more seconds, just to spite the annoying girl, Malty started chanting. There were a good two dozen of them, zoning in on her Naofumi. He cast a Shield Prison around himself. It shook as they assaulted it, clanking when beaks impacted the metal.

"Second Fire Squall!" A storm of fire appeared in the sky, and balls of flame started to rain down on the monsters. They seemed so engrossed in their bloodlust that they didn't even appear to notice. They shrieked as they got hit by the flames. When the spell ended, Malty immediately cast a second one.

A few Griffins broke off and charged them instead. Kuro and Raphtalia met them before they could reach Malty and made short work of the monsters.

When her second Fire Squall ended, the monsters were all dead. The meadow was burning here and there.

"Naofumi!" Malty hurried over alongside Raphtalia.

He stepped past burning corpses with a big grin on his face, appearance a little ruffled. "I'm fine." He cast a healing spell on himself. "That was awesome. Good job, Malty."

"Hm. I'm still not a big fan of this."

"Me neither."

For once, Malty was in full agreement with the Demi.

"Your concern has been noted. But this is too efficient not to do. Come on, let's absorb a bit of these materials, then we'll move on."

With a huff, Malty crossed her arms. She watched as Raphtalia did the hacking.

They continued their leveling. Depending on the number of monsters present, they switched up their method. Sometimes, they took them one by one, and Malty cast Fire Arrow and other targeted spells. A few times, she even needed to draw her sword to defend herself! Other times, they repeated the tactic of "Pulling," as Naofumi called it.

The sky darkened, and it started raining. Malty took cover below a tree. The others didn't appear to notice, continuing on their way.

"Are you coming, Malty?" Naofumi called from ahead.

"Let's wait out the rain! Come here, my Naofumi!"

"It's only a drizzle. We continue."

Malty hugged herself, shivering. The rain was certainly strong enough to extinguish the remaining flames of the Fire Squall she'd cast a minute ago. "But I'll get wet! Let's wait, please." She could really need a hug and some kisses now...

"Malty, you'll be fine. Let's go."

Malty remained in place. They'd wait, right? They didn't. She remained in the cover of the tree for a bit longer, then chased after them through the rain. She was completely pissed now. Her fiancé was in for a lecture later on! Had he forgotten that she was the one calling the shots?

He didn't acknowledge her glare when she caught up to them, and they continued as if nothing had happened. The rain stopped after about an hour, but she was pretty much drenched. The sun helped little.

"Let's take a break," Malty said after another few cycles of Pulling.

"Is your canteen empty?" Naofumi asked. "You can have some of mine."

"No, but my feet hurt. I want to rest a little."

"Later. We'll keep going."

Malty couldn't quite believe it when he just turned and walked away. Just like that. Hadn't he heard what she'd said? She was tempted to hit him with a Wind Blow in the back.

After a few steps, he halted and frowned at her across his shoulder. "Are you coming, Malty?"

"I said...that I need a break!"

"We'll have a break in an hour or so. If you can't keep up, you can go to the carriage and wait there for us."

I don't believe this, Malty thought. Who is this guy and where is my Naofumi?!

"Or you can ride on Kuro. But it's not very easy to stay on top when he fights and dodges around."

"Fine!" Malty snapped. "I can keep going!" She was sure she saw Raphtalia grinning again. That little... She was tempted to tell them exactly what she thought of this... He was going to regret not listening to her! After everything she'd done for him, after getting him that carriage, how could he just dismiss her like that?!

Malty gulped down a mana potion, and they kept going.

After what felt like hours, Naofumi finally announced that they'd return to the carriage. Malty nearly exploded when she thought he'd suggest they all ride on top of Kuro again. But it was only her who ended up riding him. And it turned out to be a very short ride. They'd been practically at the carriage when they'd stopped. Had Naofumi planned it that way?

Malty wouldn't give him the pleasure to voice her thoughts. She just flopped down in the carriage and had a bite to eat, stretching her feet. Naofumi covered her with a blanket, but she didn't give him the pleasure of a smile. The carriage rolled to a start a moment later.

"I'm pretty sure Malty has the most kills," Kuro said, drawing the carriage through a forest path. Rain was dripping from the leaves above, making her grin whenever a droplet hit her nose and tickled her. Perhaps she was simply in a good mood because the Princess wasn't.

Raphtalia kept her eyes open for any monsters lying in waiting in the bushes they passed. "Well, that doesn't count. Only single kills." She scarfed down the last bites of her food.

"Now who's bending the rules?"

"What rules? She never said she wanted to join our competition. I doubt she cares."

"Whatever you say, Raphtalia," Kuro chirped. "But that means that I'm the winner."

"Is that so? We'll see about that. The day is far from over!"

"Hm-hmm!"

Some frog-like monster burst through the thicket of bushes from the right, croaking. Raphtalia immediately jumped off the carriage, drew her sword mid-flight, and cleaved it in half. She looked around for more threats and, finding none, wiped the gooey blood of the frog off her sword on a nearby bush. She jogged up to the carriage, which had come to a halt a little further down the muddy road.

"Everything alright?" Naofumi called from inside the carriage.

"Yes, just a single one!" Raphtalia jumped onto her seat. "Let's go."

Kuro did.

Oddly, there was not a sound coming from within the carriage. Raphtalia had thought they were sleeping, but clearly, they weren't. She would have expected an argument, with how upset the Princess had appeared to be the whole time when Naofumi had denied her a break.

"What?!" Malty's snapped words eventually sounded, and Raphtalia couldn't help but grin a little.

"Everything alright?" Naofumi asked her gently.

"No! I still feel wet, and my feet ache."

"Really? I thought you'd be used to adventuring after all the time in Motoyasu's party."

"Well," Malty said, sounding as if her mouth was half-full with food. "Motoyasu actually listened when I asked for a break."

Spoiled lazy Princess, Raphtalia thought. She was very happy that Naofumi hadn't caved in to his fiancée's complaints and demands. She'd feared that she'd have to listen to Malty all the time now. That they'd have to change their plans to the Princess's whims and desires. That she'd try to take charge and command them around. Thankfully, Naofumi wouldn't have any of it.

"I could really use a foot massage now," the Princess said, her irritated voice laced with sweetness.

"Maybe later."

"But my feet are aching now."

Naofumi didn't answer for a moment. "We don't have time for that."

"What, why not?"

Raphtalia giggled silently at how outraged the Princess sounded.

"We're here," Kuro announced. "Where do I stop, Mr. Naofumi?"

"You were saying?" Naofumi climbed to the front. He shot Raphtalia a smile and placed a hand on her head, caressing her ears as he gave Kuro instructions about where to go. She smiled, her tail wagging left and right. They halted the carriage on a meadow near the forest edge.

Naofumi went back into the carriage, and Raphtalia helped Kuro out of the rains. After that, she went inside the carriage to refill her canteen in the big barrel full of water.

Naofumi was brushing some hair out of his fiancée's face. Malty jerked her head away in clear irritation.

"Come on, Malty," he said. "Let's go."

"But it wasn't even half an hour!" she protested, chewing.

"So? We need to use all the daylight we got."

Malty glared and huffed. "Fine, after I finished my meal."

"You can eat on the go. Come on."

"What?!" she exclaimed. "I need—" Naofumi grabbed her and dragged her out of the carriage. She nearly stumbled. "Let go! Ah, now I dropped my pastry! How dare you!"

It was very hard not to laugh at the Princess's misfortune and discomfort. Raphtalia managed to keep quiet, but her body shook a little.

Uh oh, she thought when Malty saw, and her gaze turned even angrier, almost like on the feast.

"What are you looking at?" Malty snapped.

"Sorry." Raphtalia turned away and busied herself with drawing her sword and cleaning the blade. She was equal amounts glad and upset about the Princess's behavior. Did this mean that all the times when Malty had been nice to her had been played? Had she only gifted her those magic books to buy her loyalty? Would Naofumi break things off if she kept acting like that?

"We're going!" Naofumi announced and marched off. They all followed, except Malty, of course. She stood there for a moment with an incredulous expression on her face. After a few seconds, when Naofumi made no inclination to slow down or even look back, she raced after them, huffing.

They continued leveling. Malty had a permanent scowl on her face, though she did her part. There wasn't a shortage of Mana potions for her, after all, so it really was no trouble. Raphtalia didn't really know what she was complaining about. All she had to do was stand back and cast spells. It was the easiest role out of all of them. She didn't even help absorb materials or anything else.

The sun was bright and warm. The grass they traversed was already completely dry, no sign of the earlier rainfall.

They fought against some dog-like monsters. They reminded her of the Two-headed Black Dog, only with a single head and quite a bit smaller and less scary. It was easy killing them. They used their new strategy of gathering a lot of them, then have Malty kill them all with fire spells. As always, Raphtalia was guarding the Princess, killing off the stray monsters that broke off and charged them instead.

A sudden bark alerted her about another monster coming at them from behind. She dashed past the Princess and eliminated the beast with a few quick strikes. When she turned back to resume her spot, Malty had drawn her sword and readied herself for another monster from ahead. Raphtalia dashed past her and quickly dealt with that as well.

"I had that!" Malty snapped.

Raphtalia didn't know what to say. It was her job to guard the Princess. So she only smiled and said, "Sorry." For some reason, it only made Malty more irritated.

"I need a break!" Malty announced, not for the first time.

"Later," Naofumi called back.

"Just five minutes!"

"No. We're almost done. You can go ahead to the carriage if you want."

"Maybe I shall!"

Naofumi nodded and continued.

Raphtalia turned away and crouched, as if inspecting something on the ground, to hide her amusement. It was very difficult.

"I know you're laughing, Demi! Come and look at me when you do! Anything you want to say?"

Raphtalia felt her amusemnt die. She faced the Princess with an innocent smile. "If your feet are aching, I could carry Your Highness?"

Malty looked like she wanted to scream. Her expression shifted into intense irritation, disgust perhaps, then she marched off after Naofumi. "Fine! I can keep going a little more."

They continued leveling. The Princess continued to complain and snap at anything that irritated her. Like Raphtalia, when she did her job, protecting her: when she killed monsters that Malty had wanted to take, when she pushed her out of the way from danger, when she accidentally bumped into her. Perhaps Raphtalia was doing it a bit on purpose. She always apologized, though, her smile never slipping, even when the Princess insulted her.

It wasn't hard to tell that Malty was pissed beyond comparison. Naofumi would be lying if he said that a part of him didn't enjoy it, if only a little.

When they finally returned to the carriage, the sun had turned orange, about to set. Malty looked like she was close to ripping his—or Raphtalia's—head off, not that she could succeed in doing either. Her movements were a little sluggish from exhaustion.

"Finally! My feet are killing me!"

"I could go on for a little," Raphtalia said innocently. "You'll get used to it after a while, Malty."

The heated glare Malty sent her way could have lit a forest on fire.

Raphtalia only smiled sweetly.

What kind of monster did we create? Naofumi thought, not without a bit of pride. Was Raphtalia consciously provoking Malty? His fiancée was probably regretting the little lessons she'd given Raphtalia.

"Kuro, Raphtalia, go collect some firewood and whatever eligible food you can find. Take your time. I need to discuss something with my fiancée."

"Yes, Mr. Naofumi!"

They dashed off.

"Discuss?" Malty glared at him with thinned lips, hands put against her hips.

Naofumi sauntered up to her with a grin.

If anything, her expression soured even more. "Why yes, how perceptive of you that we need to discuss something. The whole fucking day you basically ignored me! Why?! What have I done to deserve this?" When he didn't say anything, she went on. "This isn't how things were supposed to be! I won't stand for this... this ungodly torture. I'm not another of your slaves that you can command around! I'm the Princess! I got you the carriage, the magic books, the provisions! How dare you just ignore me!"

Naofumi raised an eyebrow. "Are you done?"

"Am I—" Malty made a sound in-between a huff and a scream. "Have you listened to anything I said?! I am the Princess, and I won't stand for this—"

With a quick step forward, he put a hand on her neck and pulled her toward him, smashing their lips together.

She gave a surprised squeak and tried to push him away. Unsuccessfully. Her words of protest got swallowed by his lips. He kissed her hard, with all the desire he'd built up over the day. Sucked on her lips, humming. He slung an arm around her waist and didn't let her escape. His cock was rock-hard in an instant.

"Hmmmm. Malty..."

She struggled and bit his lips. "Bastard!"

Chuckling, he returned the favor, sinking his teeth into her soft lips, making her moan. He untied her hair and ran his hands through it, grasped it. She returned the favor, pulling at his hair. She kissed him back just as hard. Bit him. Her fingernails dug into his scalp and the skin on his neck. He loved every second of it.

With practiced dexterity, he removed the neckpiece of her armor, then broke the kiss to suck at her throat, tasting the sweat on her skin.

"Naofumi," she gasped. "Don't think...this means...I forgive you."

"Oh...but I think...it does." He pulled on her hair to give him more access, and she gave a beautiful moan. Malty stopped trying to escape, hanging in his embrace. When he looked at her face again, her beautiful eyes were filled with anger and desire.

"Fuck you!"

"Love you too." Naofumi smirked and kissed her hard, and she returned the kiss immediately. Some of the tension left her body, and she melted into him with a pleased hum. She hugged him.

How the tables have turned, my love, Naofumi thought as he deepened the kiss, invading her mouth, brushing their tongues together. His lips twisted into a smirk. His heart raced, and he was overcome by the powerful feeling of triumph, of how good it felt to have this control over her.

He bit down on her lip, and she moaned into his mouth. A hand found its way to his crotch, and she stroked his erection through his trousers with elegant, skillful fingers, making him groan.

No longer was their relationship a game of uncertainties. She was too deep in now to pull out. Not after defending him in front of everyone, after convincing her father of her sincerity, after telling Motoyasu to fuck off. She would rise up with Naofumi, or she would crash and burn. The power had completely shifted to him now.

Raphtalia had a skip in her step as she ventured through the forest. She'd almost been tempted to cast an illusion spell and hide nearby to witness the impending argument between Naofumi and his fiancée. Would he reprimand her now? Scold her? Perhaps Malty would return to the castle, and things would go back to how they were before? She would be sad to lose the magic books, but they could always get new ones from somewhere.

Or I could just steal them, she thought with a little giggle.

Raphtalia halted, noticing that she didn't see Kuro around anywhere. Her gaze got drawn to some exotic plant she hadn't seen before. She plucked it. Naofumi will want to absorb this, she thought. She looked left and right, gnawing at her lower lip as she deliberated. Still no Kuro. Should or shouldn't I? This opportunity may not come again...

Raphtalia turned and walked back in the direction of their camp, almost giddy.

Naofumi opened the mechanism of her hip armor and removed it from her body. He grasped her by the ass and drew her against him, lifting her up. Malty squealed into his mouth as he groped her ass as if his life depended on it. She hooked her legs around his waist, and he ground their bodies against each other, pleasure shooting through his throbbing cock.

Perfect, he thought. Just like I knew it would be. He pulled away to stare at her properly-kissed lips, the dilated eyes, ruffled crimson hair. "So gorgeous," he said, and she smiled, puffing. He set her back down and zoned in on her breasts, carelessly ripping the fabric aside to suck at her nipples.

"Naofumi!"

"I'll buy you more."

"You...bastard." She gasped and moaned as he feasted on her wonderful tits, sucking on her hard nipples. Her sounds were of those of pure pleasure and relief.

"Get on the grass. I need to taste you."

She made a beautiful sound and obeyed. Kneeling, he kissed her once more, then her throat, breathing in her sweet scent. He worked lower, across her tits and flat stomach. Before reaching her crotch, he shifted to her legs, making her whimper in dismay. He quickly removed her armor there, then kissed his way up and down her thighs. He took his time to worship every spot of wonderful skin.

He ripped her panties off, smirking when she gasped in outrage.

"Naofumi! Ah!"

He'd already zoned in on her pussy and gave her a generous lick, making her moan. Her back arched. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath, feeling the enticing shape of her ass cheeks with his hands. The scent in-between her legs was the most heady and intoxicating thing he'd ever inhaled. His mouth watered. After a day of walking, she was all worked up and sweaty. And so wet. So so wet for him.

"My Naofumi..." She ran a hand through his hair.

With a growl, he licked her. Feasted on the divine dish between her legs. His cock was unbelievably hard, and each time she moaned his name, a wave of pleasure and satisfaction washed over him.

He licked her until she was shaking and gasping from her first orgasm.

Naofumi pushed himself onto his knees. He slowly stripped out of his armor and clothes, staring down at his fiancée's flushed face. A deep feeling of satisfaction was coursing through him. "Malty my love."

"Hmm?" She seemed only half-conscious.

"Come on. I know you want more. Get on your knees and show me your ass."

Her breathing hitched. She took a few more breaths, then rolled over and pushed herself into a kneeling position. She wiggled her ass, giggling.

"Perfect," he breathed, eyes on her soaking vagina. The orange beams of the evening sun cast her skin in a beautiful hue and reflected off the juices running down her thighs, her pussy glistening. His cock twitched, demanding he hide it from the cool breeze blowing across the meadow. Preferably somewhere wet and warm.

Naofumi gave her perfect ass a generous slap. She squeaked and moaned, and birds chirped nearby, as if in response to the loud clapping sound. He slid his glans across her wet entrance, then thrust and buried his whole length into her wonderful pussy.

He grabbed her hips and began fucking her good. "Naughty little Princess. That's how you like it, isn't it?"

"Yes! Yes! Just like tha— Ah! My Naofumi!"

He halted to reach for her hair. He grasped a fist-full of soft crimson strands and pulled, making her moan. Her back arched beautifully. He drew her fully against him, surrounding her body with his other arm, then shifted his grip from her hair to her throat, choking her gently. He took her in. Relished the sensations of her body after a hard day of work. "Kinda reminds me of our first time," he murmured against her throat.

Malty hummed, needy. "Yes."

Naofumi traced her stomach, her hips, her breasts. "You've been a right bitch then, too." He squeezed her nipples.

She squeaked, then giggled. "But you liked that, didn't you?"

"I did." He nipped at her ear. "I still do."

Her breaths came out in little gasps. Her pussy tightened around his cock. It was difficult to suppress the desire to move.

"Malty, have I ever told you..." He shifted his hand onto her sternum, drawing lazy circles there. "...that I once thought about putting a Slave Seal there?"

She shook her head faintly, as far as his grip on her throat allowed. Her pulse was racing. "Then why didn't you?" It sounded almost like an accusation. As if she would have enjoyed that. Knowing her, she probably would.

"Because I love you. And I trust you."

"Yes," she said, her voice thick with emotions. "I do too."

"Then why do you complain when I try to do what's best for us? You know I wouldn't push you so much without reason."

She swallowed thickly. After a few seconds, she said, "I'm sorry."

"Hmm-hm. So you'll be a good girl?"

Malty nodded rapidly. "I'll be a good girl for you, my Naofumi."

Grinning, he groped and kissed her with sudden intensity, pleasuring her. She sighed and moaned his name and promised that she'd be a good girl over and over again. It turned him on so much.

"Such a good girl." He pulled out a fraction and thrust in.

"Yes!"

"Malty..." He began fucking her for real. Harder. Her moans increased in intensity and volume. He crashed his hips against her ass harder and harder as he came closer to release, as the only thing that mattered was to cum inside of her. He fucked her until she was moaning incoherently, shaking in his embrace, her pussy clenching.

He groaned his pleasure against her neck as he came, filling her with his cum. His grip on her hair lessened, and she collapsed into the grass. Naofumi went with her to the ground in a heap of limbs.

Once he recovered, he brushed some hair away to nip at her ear. "I love you, Malty," he whispered.

She mumbled it back, the words barely audible. It had been a strenuous day for her. He doubted very much that Motoyasu had ever pushed her or the other girls so hard. The wimp had probably made camp whenever one of them had so much as broken into a sweat.

He pressed a kiss on her cheek, then removed himself from her. A displeased hum was all the reaction she gave.

They had a barrel of water in the carriage, along with a washcloth or two. It wasn't ideal, but he'd grown accustomed to less.

I don't understand, Raphtalia thought. Why aren't they fighting? Wasn't Malty angry with him? Wasn't Naofumi angry at her for being annoying the whole day? For insulting Raphtalia? Why hadn't they argued and instead had wilder sex than she'd thought was possible? While watching that, it had been impossible to suppress the intense jealousy from resurfacing. The hate. With her hopes crushed like that, she didn't have the willpower to suppress the feelings.

Raphtalia swallowed thickly as she watched Naofumi wash himself. Her hiding spot wasn't too far from the carriage. Peeking around a tree, she watched shamelessly. It was the least she deserved.

A myriad of emotions were coursing through her. Lust. Anger. Confusion. Jealousy. Fear. Hurt.

She just didn't understand what was happening. How could Naofumi just ignore the Princess's bad behavior? Why did Malty deserve to be loved—fucked—like that when she'd been an irrational irritation the whole day?

Heat was still glowing in-between Raphtalia's legs. For a second, she'd thought that it was punishment Naofumi was doing to the Princess. He had slapped her butt, after all. But after witnessing the sounds Malty had been making, there was no doubt that she enjoyed it. Moaning so loud Raphtalia wouldn't have been surprised if it had attracted the attention of some nearby monsters. Raphtalia just didn't understand. Why had Naofumi called her a "Good girl" when she was anything but!

Raphtalia glared at where the Princess was lying tensionless in the grass and a serene smile on her face. How was this fair? Why was this happening? It was only because she was the Princess, wasn't it? Because Naofumi wanted to be part of the royal family.

Why can't I be a Princess? It's not fair! Raphtalia's hands dug into the bark of the tree. The flower she'd plucked lay crushed on the ground. She was being childish, she knew, but she just didn't care.

Naofumi was done washing and dressed himself. He suddenly looked in her direction, and Raphtalia hid behind the tree, heart hammering. When she dared to peek again, it was to see him making his way toward the Princess. Relief washed over her.

He went to completely undress her, then washed her. He was gentle and loving with her, and Raphtalia hated it. She kept looking, though. When he was done with that, he rolled out a sleeping bag for her and maneuvered her onto it, then removed his cloak and covered her nude body with it. He pressed a kiss onto her cheek.

The snapping of a twig behind her made Raphtalia squeak. She slapped a hand in front of her mouth and whirled around, back toward the tree trunk.

Big red eyes were staring at her critically.

"K-kuro?" she whispered.

"What are you doing? Why haven't you collected anything?"

"I, I..."

He sighed. "Well, I've collected enough firewood for the both of us." He indeed carried quite a bit underneath each arm—wing. "You can have some. Wouldn't want Naofumi to know you've been spying on him, hmm?"

"What? I didn't!"

He only blinked, staring knowingly.

"I mean, thank you."

"Hm. You owe me some food and a favor."

Raphtalia smiled. "Of course." She hugged him, then went to relieve him of some of his firewood. When she stepped into the camp, Naofumi was busy setting some stones for the fireplace. He greeted them with a satisfied smile, no sign that he'd noticed her.

Malty watched as the others prepared a campfire and chopped ingredients for dinner. When prompted, she removed her hands from underneath Naofumi's cloak to cast a spell, lighting the campfire, then immediately retreated back beneath. She was very content like that, pleasantly sore. The thing he'd placed her on was some kind of fur, smooth against her naked skin. The fire picked up, lighting the night. The distant heat felt wonderful against the little skin not covered by his cloak, and the crackling was relaxing. The occasional distant sound of monsters perfected the adventure feeling.

Thankfully, no one demanded her to help. She wasn't in the mood to lecture them about her status again. And she was way too tired, her eyelids threatening to fall shut.

Naofumi was making some soup or stew. It smelled good, mouth-watering. He occasionally shot her a smile, and each time, her heart skipped a beat and she grinned back.

"Give this to Malty."

"Yes, Mr. Naofumi."

Malty accepted the steaming bowl. "Thank you, Raphtalia."

The girl kept her eyes lowered the entire time.

The soup was as delicious as it smelled. She had no idea what was inside, but of course, cooking was just one of her Naofumi's countless talents.

He sat down next to her with his own bowl, and she leaned against him.

No one really talked, aside from the occasional praise for the cook. Everyone was too busy scarfing down the food—as was Malty, even if it was a little undignified. She was just so fucking hungry, and the soup was just that good. She felt silly for her earlier irritation. Just a bit of discomfort. It'd all been worth it, in the end.

Raphtalia volunteered to wash. A good servant, Malty thought. Seems like she learned her place.

"Can you bring our monster eggs?"

"Good idea," Naofumi said and did as told. He placed them next to their spot, then slipped out of his armor and joined her underneath the cloak. It wasn't all that thick, but the nearby campfire spent enough warmth.

He drew her against him, and they kissed. They kissed and kissed. Malty just barely had the strength for that. She was so wonderfully fucked and full and loved. Definitely pregnant.

Eventually, she broke the kiss and collapsed onto his bare chest, closing her eyes, feeling and smelling her Naofumi. His arms felt wonderful around her.

He caressed her back with tenderness underneath the blanket—his cloak. "Tough first day?"

Malty gave a tired hum, faintly nodding against his pec. She shivered under his touch. "Sorry for being such a bitch earlier." She'd already apologized, but it never hurt to do so again. The others should hear it too.

"It's okay. I know you can't always hide who you truly are."

"Hey!" She hit him blindly—on the bicep, from the feel of it. She rested her hand there, brushing her thumb back and forth, feeling the muscle.

He laughed. "Sorry, I'm joking, I'm joking." He was kind of correct, but Malty would never admit it.

"I'll be better, I promise. I'll try harder."

"I know you will, my love. You want to be my perfect Queen, don't you?"

She hummed and nodded. Anything for her Naofumi.

He pressed a kiss on the top of her head. "I love you, Malty."

"I love you so much, my Naofumi." She snuggled deeper, and his arms tightened around her. She felt his erection against her, making her smile.

Ugh, I'm way too tired for sex and way too full. The mere thought of taking his cock, beautiful as it may be, in her mouth made her a little nauseous. Raphtalia can suck him off, for all I care.

Malty snorted, unable to believe what she'd just thought. His cooking is way too fucking good. And perhaps she was feeling a little bad about the way she'd snapped at the girl earlier. This'll take some time to fix. Way to go Malty. Just throw away all your hard work because of some discomfort. How pathetic. If Naofumi hadn't shaken her out of it, who knew what more stupid things she would have said and done? She didn't think it possible, but she loved him even more for it.

But speaking of the girl. Where was she? She must have been done washing up a long time ago. "Raphtalia?" Malty called, not moving a fraction or opening her eyes.

"Yes?" came the reply after a second. She seemed oddly far away.

"Don't you want to join us?" Malty wouldn't mind if the girl cuddled up to her from behind.

"It's fine."

"Hmm... I'm sorry for how I treated you earlier. I don't know what came over me. It was just the hunger and physical discomfort talking. You didn't do anything wrong. Everything's okay, right? You can come join us."

"B-but you're naked!"

Malty snorted, then frowned. How did Raphtalia know? For all she knew, Malty could be clad in underwear beneath the cloak. "Does it matter? I don't care if you don't care."

"I... think I'll leave you some privacy for tonight."

"Suit yourself. Goodnight, then."

"Goodnight."

"Goodnight." Naofumi kissed her.

"Love you."

"Love you too."

Raphtalia lay awake on the other side of the campfire, watching Naofumi and Malty, listening to their peaceful breathing among the crackling of the flames.

They were asleep, as was Kuro, but sleep wouldn't find her. She tightened the grip on her dagger.

The reason why Raphtalia had chosen to not join them was that she didn't trust herself to not pierce the Princess's heart. She glared, hating her, hating herself.

She'd thought that she could bear seeing them together, but she could not. Not after what she'd witnessed earlier. The spark of jealousy had kindled and wouldn't blow out again, only growing in size by the minute. All Raphtalia could think about is that it should be her in Naofumi's embrace, that Malty didn't deserve him.

It should be her who he doted on and kissed. It should be her who he proclaimed his love to. It should be her who he fucked like a wild beast. It should be her who bore his children.

Her breathing came out in gasps, her aching heart thudding in her chest. She wanted to march over there and slit the Princess's throat, and then she wanted Naofumi to pound her into the ground with unrestrained desire, while they smeared warm blood between their bodies, on her breasts.

A moan sounded, and Raphtalia realized that it was her own. That she'd positioned a hand in-between her legs, stroking herself through her pants. She froze.

What am I doing? What am I thinking? Raphtalia shouted in her head, hysterical. I'm going crazy! Completely crazy. She took a deep breath, and her desire quelled. She shivered.

Mr. Naofumi said that I'm stuck with him, she thought. But would that promise extend even when she killed his fiancée? It would be easy, just a single strike, and it would be done. What would happen then? Would Naofumi kill her in revenge? He still needed her, right? Would they have to flee the country? Be killed? What about her friends?

Raphtalia shook those stupid thoughts off. She felt disgusted with herself for even considering it. She turned so that the campfire was to her back, welcoming the cool night air.

It helped make her feel somewhat normal again.

This needs to stop, she decided. I'm doing this to myself. I was the one stupid enough to return to camp even though it was obvious what was happening. I was the one who stayed and watched. I'm the one who keeps out hope even if there is none. If she hadn't done that, she wouldn't be having any of those scary thoughts. No, she could be cuddling Naofumi right now. But even that, she couldn't do anymore. She didn't trust herself so close to the Princess. What if that feeling of jealousy and hate overpowered her again?

I should keep my distance. No more peeking. No more cuddling. I can do that with Kuro. With a determined nod, Raphtalia stood. She picked up her sleeping equipment and hid away in the carriage. Time to focus on the important things: Helping people. Making sure Keel is alright and that that monster Rabier can never hurt another child again.

Such plot. Such character development. XD

Ngl, never thought I'd write a story about voyeurism, least of all have that as an integral part of a character's journey.