Little Garden 151-155

Title: The Lion King Agency Absolutely Doesn’t Deserve to Be Called a Matchmaking Agency!

“Damn it!”

Sensai felt like cursing. Hadn’t he gone through all this trouble to come here and ask for help? But in the end, he was told that the ones he sought help from were going to surrender?

Now, not only could he not protect his daughter, but he’d also be dragged into the mess. If he had to go down, he at least wanted to ensure his daughter’s safety first.

Though his daughter was Cain’s Miko, as long as she was on Itogami Island—Cain’s Altar—the altar would do everything to protect her.

But who knew if the Fourth Primogenitor had other methods? After all, he was the monster who killed Cain with his own hands. Who knew his stance toward Cain’s Miko?

“Surrender if we must. It’s our own choice. Should we just let them die?”

Yukari looked at Sensai with a strange expression. Wasn’t this what Japan and Itogami Island were thinking right now?

As dogs, they sought a good master—one strong and obedient. Otherwise, they wouldn’t have gotten involved in this Blazing Banquet and become its organizers. Weren’t they just aiming to be the Fourth Primogenitor’s dogs?

But some weren’t content with just being dogs; they also wanted to be masters. Overthrowing the boss was a long-standing Japanese tradition.

Besides, the Lion King Agency wasn’t like the Astrology Bureau. The Lion King Agency took the route of nurturing orphans, loyal only to Japan’s top brass. Simply put, they were good dogs and useful knives—an excellent tool.

The Astrology Bureau, on the other hand, was made up of the elite families’ own people—real, living power. For years, the Lion King Agency had been forced to handle magical crimes and disasters, with losses so high that their personnel were long insufficient.

Add to that the Sanctuary Treaty, signed under the First Primogenitor’s will, which made large-scale wars rare, making it even harder to find talented orphans.

“Not enough replacements” barely described the Lion King Agency’s current state. The three Saints had been reduced to just Hedate Munechika, a seasoned veteran.

Kuraki Shirona and Shizuka Koyomi were reduced to girls fresh out of High God Forest, taking over. Becoming Saints in their teens sounded like they were strong and talented, but it was also a form of desperation.

If possible, who wouldn’t want them to keep growing?

“But, seriously, Sensai, listen to my advice. Maybe it’s not as bad as you think?”

Yukari looked at the photo on her phone, her eyes lingering on Natsuki’s reluctant expression.

The Witch of the Void—why was she willing to work under the Fourth Primogenitor? The honest and responsible Minamiya Natsuki wasn’t easily tamed. Though such people were easy to manage and predict, they were often incredibly stubborn.

Like Natsuki, she’d never bow to someone evil and anti-human. Even if kidnapped or forcibly threatened, she’d rather die than submit.

Yet now, Natsuki’s face only showed slight reluctance, and she was still very obedient to the Fourth Primogenitor’s orders. Simply put, she was stubborn, but her heart had already submitted.

Yukari knew that Natsuki’s close friend, Tokoyogi Aya, was sent to the Prison Barrier by Natsuki herself.

“Or, think about it—what did you all say that made His Excellency angry?”

Yukari was reviewing data on reserve girls not yet graduated from High God Forest, searching for one who might match the Fourth Primogenitor’s preferences and had strong Sword Shaman qualifications.

High God Forest was the Lion King Agency’s institution for training Mikos, Shamanic War Dancers, and Attack Mages—a girls-only school. She decided to return to the Lion King Agency’s old business. In truth, they’d never left it.

As stated before, the Lion King Agency absolutely didn’t deserve to be called a matchmaking agency!

It was all slander from the Astrology Bureau!

How could helping two people who already liked each other be considered matchmaking? They always supported free love!

What era was this, still thinking about arranged marriages and matchmaking?

“Hmm… this one’s good? This one seems nice too? A junior with a baby face, large chest, serious demeanor, a bit tsundere. Most importantly, she has top-tier Sword Shaman qualifications.”

“Alright, she’s the one.”

While Yukari chose a suitable “observer” Sensai was lost in thought—or rather, reflection?

To become mayor, his memory wasn’t bad. He quickly recalled the scene. Back then, it seemed the people in the meeting completely ignored Natsuki’s advice. Instead, they kept talking about how they wanted to control the Fourth Primogenitor?

Even if the other party didn’t cooperate, they’d make him die in the Blazing Banquet.

Instantly, Sensai’s expression darkened. He now had an even stronger urge to curse.

“In daily life, they always obstruct and cause trouble for me. And now, they’ve managed to screw me over here too?”

Sensai finally realized how dangerous those idiot teammates were. He considered himself careful with words.

In countless meetings, aside from necessary speeches, he was practically silent, knowing that speaking too much led to mistakes.

But after dodging so many times, he was finally trapped by those idiot teammates. Talking about controlling the Fourth Primogenitor in front of him? Not being killed on the spot was already a stroke of luck.

“So, figured it out? Go on, maybe now you can see your daughter having fun with His Excellency?”

Yukari said with a smile, helping Sensai up, making way for him, and letting him get into his car to find the Fourth Primogenitor.

After Sensai left, Yukari wiped the smile from her face and clapped her hands.

“Alright, Paper Noise, come out.”

As she spoke, a village girl with glasses and braided hair dropped her book, her figure suddenly appearing in the antique shop.

“Paper Noise, what did you learn?”

Seeing the confused expression on Koyomi’s face, Yukari knew this student, who only knew how to wield swords and spears, didn’t understand her actions or intentions at all.

“Sorry, Sensei. I’m too dumb.”

Koyomi lowered her head guiltily. Though she’d watched the entire scene, she still didn’t grasp Yukari’s actions.

Koyomi was one of the Lion King Agency’s three current Saints, having taken the role a month ago. Just a month prior, she was a middle school student at High God Forest, graduating only recently.

Though she inherited the spiritual power of past Paper Noises and had superhuman abilities, Koyomi’s strength wasn’t weak. But in terms of interacting with others…

What could you expect from a village girl who lived in the shadows and only knew how to use swords and spears?

Not being fully exploited and ending tragically was already good.

Yukari wasn’t surprised. She never had high expectations for Koyomi’s growth in social matters. For that, the veterans were enough.

Koyomi needed to grow quietly. At least they weren’t all dead yet and could protect her for a while. They couldn’t let her be tricked and killed.

“Forget it. Just follow Sensai quietly, monitor his movements, and report to me.” Yukari sighed in resignation.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

On the other side, Sensai couldn’t help clicking his tongue. He glanced at the antique shop through the rearview mirror.

“We’re all thousand-year-old foxes. Don’t play games with me.”

He could naturally see Yukari’s intent to use him to pave the way for the Lion King Agency.

If something happened to him, it meant the Fourth Primogenitor wasn’t easy to negotiate with, and the Lion King Agency would need a new strategy.

If he was fine and learned the Fourth Primogenitor’s stance, the Lion King Agency could surrender.

Being a dog—the sooner, the better. The earlier you became a dog, the more meat you got. If you were late, even the soup wouldn’t be warm. They had to seize the opportunity now, before the Fourth Primogenitor’s Night Empire was built, to join and become his dog.

Otherwise, being a dog wouldn’t be so easy.

Adding icing to a cake was never as good as delivering coal in the snow.

“Go to Head Instructor Natsuki’s residence.”

But what was the point of being used? Just like he had to stay on Itogami Island, and his wife had to be gravely ill.

He had no choice.

With Itogami Island’s current technology, what disease couldn’t be cured? Even if it couldn’t, what about becoming a vampire?

Becoming one or buying a vampire’s rib at great cost?

Reincarnating as a vampire with eternal life force—what disease couldn’t be cured?

At worst, she’d have a few horns on her head, but he could find a female vampire, right? To keep living, one needed a few horns.

But they wouldn’t let Cain’s Miko lose control or leave Itogami Island.

He always needed something tying him to Itogami Island; otherwise, if he fled, they’d have nowhere to cry.

Now, he could only bet on one thing: that his release from control was intentional by the Fourth Primogenitor.

Of course, if he was released due to his daughter’s influence, that would be even better. It meant his daughter, Asagi, had gained the Fourth Primogenitor’s protection. And he might even benefit from it too.

-

Title: Who’s Your Father-in-Law!

“No reply, still no reply to my message.”

Asagi quietly checked her phone. Since she sent the message, her father hadn’t responded at all. The message was marked as read, not unread.

If it was unread, she could console herself. But read and ignored? She didn’t know what to do.

The rebellious girl finally felt regret. She realized she might have gone too far.

Maybe she wasn’t as important to her father as she thought? Suddenly, the five steaks freshly served by the waiter, though right in front of her, held no appeal.

“Calm down, maybe it’s not as bad as you think?”

Seeing Asagi lose her appetite, Aslan naturally took over to finish the steaks. After all, they tasted pretty good. One steak was just a taste for him; he needed more to eat happily.

Unlike Asagi’s panic, Aslan was fully aware of Sensai’s actions. After all, Sensai was still under his control. He seemed to be seeking help from the Lion King Agency’s matchmaking bureau, but his request failed, so he decided to come directly.

“Maybe your dad’s trying to figure out how to save you right now?”

“No way.”

Asagi snorted, but her mood improved significantly. At least this possibility was far better than being truly abandoned. It showed Sensai still cared about her.

Seeing Asagi’s reaction, Aslan just smiled, preparing to enjoy his meal quietly.

But that smile, in the eyes of the rebellious girl, undoubtedly lit the fuse of a bomb called embarrassment in her heart. Asagi exploded. She felt she’d just made a huge fool of herself.

“Why are you smiling? If I’m not mistaken, you’re eating my steak, aren’t you?”

With flushed cheeks, Asagi remembered these were the steaks she’d ordered. Without hesitation, she snatched the plate and the steak Aslan had just cut, biting into it fiercely, as if chewing Aslan’s flesh and blood.

But seeing Aslan’s smile that wasn’t quite a smile, Asagi’s face turned even redder, and she froze! Her blush outshone any words. Instantly, she ate the steak faster.

Aslan tilted his head, looking out the cafeteria window. A black business car passed by, heading to the parking lot near the cafeteria. He could sense the virus-carrying individual approaching.

It was time. Asagi’s father, Sensai, had arrived. Aslan wasn’t surprised. After all, Itogami Island was just an artificial island, with a total area of only 180 square kilometers.

How big was that? Smaller than the city he lived in during his past life. Driving around the entire city wouldn’t even take an hour.

It was perfectly normal for Sensai to arrive within the time of a meal.

Soon, a tall man in a neat suit entered the restaurant, scanned the room, and paused briefly upon seeing Aslan. Still, he mustered his courage and walked to where Aslan and Asagi sat.

Seeing Asagi, Aslan couldn’t help feeling a bit mischievous. Because of a certain someone, Asagi was so embarrassed that her eating manners were utterly ungraceful. Others cut their steak into small pieces and ate slowly.

Not Asagi right now—she stabbed the steak with her fork and bit into it directly. Of course, a few minutes ago, her eating was normal. But now, this style inevitably got sauce on her face, making her delicate face look like a kitten’s.

After Asagi finished her last bite, Aslan took out a tissue and gently helped wipe her face.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Asagi looked at his actions, confused. She was a bit unsure of Aslan’s intentions.

“Nothing. Your face was covered in sauce, so I helped wipe it off. What else could it mean?”

But Asagi didn’t seem to appreciate Aslan’s kindness, giving him a look that said, “You’d better only be doing that.”

Sensai, standing nearby, was stunned. He was completely baffled. So, what was the relationship between Asagi and the Fourth Primogenitor now? Were they this close?

In a way, this was far better than the worst-case scenario he’d imagined. But as a father, he also felt an odd displeasure about the situation.

The helpless feeling of his precious cabbage being eaten by a pig, and he could only watch from the sidelines.

Could it be, he’d guessed correctly? Was he released because of his daughter?

With mixed feelings, Sensai quietly approached the table where Asagi sat. Seeing her eat steak so boldly, he also felt her upbringing might have a slight problem.

Aslan slightly raised his head, looked at Sensai, and slowly smiled.

“This is our first meeting, right? Father-in-law?”

Sensai’s face went blank, silent for two or three seconds, his expression empty. Was he hallucinating?

The sudden greeting created an awkward silence for a few seconds.

Then Asagi, sensing something was off, turned around and saw the person standing behind her. Her face flushed.

“Dad? Cough, cough, cough…”

Asagi choked. Her father had appeared behind her at some point, combined with Aslan’s double blow.

“Here, water!” Aslan smiled and handed her a glass of water.

After Asagi drank it all, she slammed the table and shouted.

“Who’s your father-in-law!” Her embarrassment made her voice as loud as it could go.

At that moment, Aslan propped his face with one hand, looked at Asagi, and said.

“How’s that? Surprised, huh?”

“Surprised? More like shocked!” Who could’ve known that hearing “father-in-law” and seeing her dad standing behind her with a blank expression would happen?

How panicked was she? Her heart nearly jumped out.

“Is that so?” Aslan sighed, sounding regretful. “I thought I could give you a surprise.”

“Surprise? Who meets a girl for the first time and calls her dad ‘father-in-law’?” Asagi couldn’t hold back her laughter and tears.

Who joked like that in front of someone’s father? But thinking about it, wasn’t this normal for him?

This guy could make contracts like that with a straight face. No, not make—he was someone who always carried slave contracts like that.

Thinking of this, Asagi showed an expression like she was the unluckiest person in the world, turning to Sensai.

“Even though you’re unreliable, it was just Aslan’s joke. Don’t think anything weird!”

(You said that, how could I not think something weird?)

Sensai gave an awkward smile, then looked at the man sitting across from Asagi, propping his cheek and smiling.

Whether Aslan’s words were a joke, he couldn’t be sure. But he could see his daughter and this man had a good relationship.

“Alright, the joke ends here.”

Aslan waved, asking the waiter for another chair. After all, they were at a four-person table, and he, Asagi, Natsuki, and Aurora had already filled it.

“I’m sure you already know I’ve taken control of Itogami Island?”

“Yes.” Sensai lowered his head and answered, his tone much more relaxed. After all, the situation wasn’t the worst anymore.

Before entering, he’d been terrified of the Fourth Primogenitor who controlled all of Itogami Island’s executives with one move.

But now, he saw an extraordinary young man who liked to joke, bicker with his daughter, and had a bit… no, a lot of mischievous humor.

But Asagi was confused. She couldn’t help complaining to Aslan.

“Why did you suddenly take over Itogami Island? Even jokes have limits!”

No one answered. Asagi seemed to recall something and stared at him silently.

“For real? You actually took full control of Itogami Island?”

Aslan nodded slightly, as if asking, “You’re only realizing now?”

“Why did you take over Itogami Island?” Asagi asked curiously. Before, she wasn’t close enough to dare ask. But after their little spat, their relationship had grown closer.

At least now, Asagi dared to ask.

“Maybe because I want to build a Night Empire?” Aslan rubbed his chin, thought for a moment, and said.

“Actually, I didn’t want to use this method. But those executives were plotting how to control me right in front of me. So, I had no choice but to control them.”

The corner of Asagi’s mouth twitched. She could only say this fit her stereotype of Japanese executives—always trying to control power they shouldn’t have.

As for her father? He was probably just caught in the crossfire. Even she was one of those accidentally affected.

But a Night Empire? Asagi thought she might have figured out Aslan’s identity. If she wasn’t mistaken, Aslan was the so-called Fourth Primogenitor.

If Aslan was a Primogenitor who’d lived for thousands of years, did he have a way to cure her mother?

Asagi couldn’t help feeling a spark of hope.

-

Title: I Don’t Want to Be Your Stepfather, Asagi

“But now, there’s clearly been a slight mishap.” Aslan sighed in resignation, looking at Asagi with an apologetic expression.

“Because my skills aren’t perfect yet, when I synchronized with those idiots, I set their goal to be loyal to me.”

“But who knew their understanding of loyalty was to offer sacred girls to please me?”

As he spoke, Aslan looked at her.

Asagi was stunned, then rolled her eyes at him. She said irritably, “What’s the point of saying that now?”

Aslan spoke in a rather dejected tone, “No choice. I had no hopes for those idiots’ abilities. If only they were a bit smarter.”

“But people who are already dumb don’t get smarter just because they’re controlled, right? When they act stupidly, it just makes others angrier. You have no one to complain to; you just have to endure it yourself.”

“Seems like it…” Asagi looked at him with sympathy. She knew how unreliable the people at that vegetarian eatery were, how bizarre their thinking was. Thinking about it, being the Fourth Primogenitor wasn’t easy for Aslan either.

At that moment, Aslan sighed, “If only there were someone smart, wise, capable, and loyal enough to help me manage those idiots, that’d be great.”

“That’s how it should be. We need to prevent this from happening again.” Asagi sighed too.

But unlike his naive daughter, Sensai, catching the hidden meaning, immediately looked up, staring at Aslan in shock. “Your Excellency’s meaning?”

See, how clever he was. He’d already called him Your Excellency. Aslan looked at Sensai with an amused smile.

“The position of Prime Minister of Itogami Island is still vacant. I wonder if Mayor Aiba has any ideas?”

He had ideas, of course he did. He was very interested. Right now, he was the Prime Minister of Itogami Island. After the Blazing Banquet, wouldn’t he become the Prime Minister of the Night Empire? This was incredibly tempting for Sensai. He knew well the level of the three major Night Empires in the world. In other words, they held veto power over nearly all global affairs.

It was common knowledge that Primogenitors never handled affairs themselves. They were the type of hands-off bosses. This meant it was the true pinnacle of power. Rising to the top, truly reaching the top.

After weighing the pros and cons… or rather, just the pros, since there were no cons, Sensai looked at Aslan calmly. “I’m curious, what kind of Night Empire does Your Excellency envision?”

“Maybe an empire where everyone follows the law, with a clean government, hard work rewarded, and justice upheld.” Aslan said casually, envisioning a harmonious, peaceful society under his control.

“Of course, if anyone gets in the way, just clean them up.” Aslan waved his hand nonchalantly, then handed Sensai the authority to control the other executives and allowed him to use the Blacklight Virus power within his body.

Though it was something Aslan had casually infected, it wasn’t hard for Sensai and the blacklight monster to display Six-Digit level power. In a world where only Primogenitors reached Five-Digit level as gatekeepers, this was indeed immense power. The other three Primogenitors in this world were probably only on par with Shirayukihime.

Even in close combat, they might be defeated by Six-Digit level experts. After all, vampires were Summoners, with all their combat power in their Beast Vassals.

“I understand. Please leave it to me.” Sensai placed his hand on his knee.

With such power, if he couldn’t do it, he might as well die and quietly become a blacklight monster.

“Then, I’ll leave the rest to you, Minister Aiba.” Aslan said with a smile.

“Huh?” Asagi was stunned.

The Prime Minister matter was decided so quickly? Wasn’t that too hasty?

Aslan, seeing Asagi’s confused expression, couldn’t help but smile. It seemed Asagi hadn’t realized she’d been “sold” by her father at this moment.

Otherwise, where would Sensai get the qualifications to become Prime Minister, even controlling the blacklight monster? Did she really think Aslan would be so kind as to give power to others for free?

For a position of this level, if Aslan dared offer the chance, the line of applicants would stretch from Itogami Island to Japan. All this was thanks to Asagi’s identity as Cain’s Miko, and Sensai naturally knew this.

This could also be seen as Aslan’s guarantee to Sensai.

Cain’s Miko status was quite important to Aslan. After all, to obtain the Cleansing, he’d have to deal with Cain and his Miko.

Even in the original story, Asagi’s role was indispensable. Her hacking skills were often highly effective at critical moments. Even without her Cain’s Miko identity, Asagi was a rare talent. From any perspective, Aslan wouldn’t lose out.

“But, Asagi, do you have any other requests?” After settling Sensai’s matter, Aslan looked up at her.

“As an apology for my mistake that affected you and caused psychological trauma.”

“So, you can ask for one thing I’m capable of doing. As long as I can do it, it’s fine.”

Instantly, Asagi’s eyes lit up with surprise. She’d been thinking about how to ask for his help. She didn’t expect Aslan to be so kind as to give her a reason to ask.

This was a bit surprising. The considerate Aslan now was somewhat different from the Aslan she knew.

Asagi suppressed her excitement, pretending to be generous. “You said it, no taking it back.”

After returning, she’d send all the incriminating evidence she’d investigated to her father. That wouldn’t harm Aslan, right? At most, she could help with investigations for free.

Thinking this, Asagi looked at Aslan expectantly, awaiting his response. Aslan naturally said cleverly, “A Fourth Primogenitor doesn’t easily take back his promises.”

Hearing this, Asagi held back her excitement and asked hesitantly, “Then, what if I ask you to turn my mom into a vampire?”

Upon hearing this, Sensai was stunned, and even Aslan was taken aback.

Aslan and Sensai exchanged glances, and even Natsuki couldn’t help looking at Sensai.

Aslan and Natsuki seemed to see a green hat on Sensai’s head. Coincidentally, Sensai thought the same.

The atmosphere suddenly became very awkward. As it grew awkward, Asagi seemed to realize something was off and asked hesitantly, “Of course, that’s not possible, right?”

“I don’t want to be your stepfather, Asagi.” Aslan said with a wry smile. Though it sounded absurd, it was the truth.

Vampires in this world needed a special urge to drink blood. Aslan admitted he might have feelings for Asagi, but he had none for her mother. He wasn’t someone who inherited Prime Minister Cao’s desires.

Asagi was truly shocked. She also realized she’d made an incredibly foolish request. Asking the Fourth Primogenitor to drink her mother’s blood…

“Ahem.” Asagi’s face flushed, and she lowered her head to stare at the empty plate in front of her, not daring to say a word. But thinking of her mother lying weakly in the hospital bed, her expression gradually became resolute. She looked at him firmly.

“Didn’t you say you wouldn’t take it back? I’ll convince my mom. You just need to turn her into a vampire.”

“Isn’t there another way?” Aslan flicked her forehead irritably, intending to snap the foolish girl out of it.

Sensai also realized something. It seemed the power Aslan gave him was enough to heal his wife. They didn’t need to be so pessimistic.

“With just the power Minister Aiba has now, he can save your mother.”

Aslan patted Sensai’s shoulder, granting him permission to infect others. This time, of course, he could preserve the infected person’s consciousness.

“Thank you.” Sensai lowered his head, speaking in a hoarse voice. He didn’t dare look up, let alone make a sound.

He was afraid if he spoke again, his foolishness would be exposed in front of his daughter. His fatherly dignity would be shattered.

“Alright, Natsuki-chan, are you done eating? It’s time to go.” Aslan looked at Natsuki, who was wiping her mouth, and Aurora, struggling with her ice cream, asking with a smile.

“Finished ages ago.” Natsuki glared at him. If Aslan hadn’t lingered with Asagi, she’d have gone back to rest already.

“Then let’s go.” With that, Aslan gave space to the father-daughter pair.

Asagi looked at her father, unsure what to say. But Sensai’s refusal to meet her eyes reignited her rebellious streak.

“Minister Aiba, are you afraid to look at your daughter?”

Sensai froze, lowered his head, and didn’t answer. Only after Asagi left her seat did a soft sobbing sound emerge.

Asagi’s steps paused briefly, but she didn’t look back, respecting her father’s pride.

-

Title: The Lion King Agency Is Absolutely Not a Matchmaking Agency!

In a dimly lit alley, a girl with braided hair, wearing the Saikai Academy high school uniform, pushed up her black-framed glasses and set down the book in her hand.

Natsuki sighed helplessly, turning back to glance at Aslan, who was teasing Aurora nearby.

“Those two are way too relaxed.”

Then Natsuki waved her hand and stepped into the dim alley, looking at the girl. Or rather, one of the three Saints of the Lion King Agency, Shizuka Koyomi.

Natsuki crossed her arms, glaring at Koyomi unkindly. “Shouldn’t we be the ones asking you, Koyomi?”

“What did one of the Lion King Agency’s three Saints see after spying for so long?”

She really thought Natsuki hadn’t noticed the Lion King Agency members hiding nearby, secretly observing—especially Koyomi, who was tailing Sensai.

“Shouldn’t we be the ones asking you, Minamiya Natsuki?” Koyomi’s tone was flat. Though she countered with a question, she didn’t sound angry. It felt more cold.

“You took Matrix No. 12 without permission and brought it to Itogami Island.”

“Witch of the Void, do you really want to be a Participant?”

“Huh?” Natsuki was stunned. She couldn’t hold back a laugh and sneered, “Aren’t you the lowlifes who want to be Participants? Matrix No. 12 is right there. If you’re brave enough, go take it yourself!”

Did they really think Natsuki wanted to host the Fourth Primogenitor? If it weren’t for that guy’s coercion, how could she be with Aslan?

As for being a Participant? That was even more absurd. Aslan never needed support from backstage sponsors, let alone from others.

“And you guys, to better support your Participant to become the Fourth Primogenitor, you organized the Blazing Banquet and made Itogami Island its venue.”

“To avoid citizens being affected by the Fourth Primogenitor’s awakening and to increase his chances of winning, you really went all out.” Natsuki said with a grim expression.

They turned the entire Itogami Island and its 560,000 residents into an offering for the Fourth Primogenitor without anyone’s consent.

The Fourth Primogenitor, Lord of the Night of Flame Light, was called an illusory vampire. He had the ability to take memories on a massive scale and convert them into accumulated time for himself. Simply put, he could steal others’ memories to boost his magical limit.

Thus, to fully awaken the sealed Fourth Primogenitor, he needed what was called an offering.

Thinking of this, Natsuki couldn’t help but sneer. “Maybe in two or three years, once the Fourth Primogenitor fully awakens, everyone on this island will lose their memories of the past three years. You guys are really something.”

This was the real reason Natsuki didn’t get along with these executives. Though she was an Attack Mage, she cared deeply about Itogami Island and its people. Personally, losing three years of memories could affect someone’s life. Let alone 560,000 people.

“…”

Koyomi fell silent for a moment, not responding. This was indeed an unethical act by the Lion King Agency, Japan’s executives, and Itogami Island’s leaders. With so many parties collaborating, no one cared about Natsuki’s thoughts.

After a while, Koyomi pushed up her glasses and said, “Sorry. But it hasn’t happened yet.”

What could she do? She’d only been a Saint for less than a month. Agreements like this were clearly decided long ago.

If not for Aslan’s sudden appearance, combined with interference from the Black Death Emperor, Matrix No. 12 would already be in the Lion King Agency’s hands. Japan was the biggest investor in the MRA corporation.

“It hasn’t happened doesn’t mean your wrongs can be covered up.” Natsuki snorted coldly, turning her face away, unwilling to look at Koyomi’s cold expression.

Koyomi frowned, sighed, and said, “Of course. I can represent the Lion King Agency to offer you compensation: a list of the names of those who signed the agreement.”

A dead enemy is better than a dead teacher. Clearly, this Fourth Primogenitor and the Witch of the Void weren’t magnanimous. Or rather, they were very vengeful, with very small hearts.

Just because others had slight intentions, they took control of all Itogami Island’s executives and even planned to clean them out. So, to avoid the Lion King Agency being swept up in the purge, Koyomi did the same as Yukari—she surrendered.

“Hmm?” Natsuki raised an eyebrow, her face slightly confused.

Koyomi continued flatly, her expression unchanged. “Of course, this compensation isn’t enough. As an apology from the Lion King Agency, we’ll fully support your side in competing for the Fourth Primogenitor qualification. Naturally, we also have a duty to monitor your side to prevent mass casualty incidents.”

“Ohhh~~” Natsuki showed an intrigued expression. She wasn’t interested in the Lion King Agency’s help but was more curious about their attitude.

“I didn’t expect the Lion King Agency to be so dishonest.”

They secretly provided support for the Blazing Banquet, ignoring Japan’s executives, and backed the Fourth Primogenitor. Wasn’t that already considered betrayal?

With just those words, if they leaked, the Lion King Agency would be done for and even attacked by Japan’s forces.

Facing Natsuki’s mockery, Koyomi said flatly, “The Lion King Agency’s founding philosophy was to protect the general public. We’re just adhering to that original philosophy.”

“You’re deliberately making me laugh, right? After leading the signing of an agreement like that, you say your philosophy is protecting the public?” Natsuki shrugged, unable to hold back her laughter.

Those words sounded so disgusting, didn’t they? She could only say they fit her stereotype of executives perfectly.

“Losing three years of memories is better than losing lives.” Koyomi thought to herself. But she didn’t say it aloud. She knew Natsuki would never agree with that idea, because she herself didn’t either.

“And to show the Lion King Agency’s sincerity, we’ve decided to provide critical information to your side first.” Koyomi didn’t care what Natsuki thought. She didn’t look at Natsuki but into the distance, at Aslan walking with Aurora.

Koyomi knew well that everything she said was mere nonsense without that person’s approval. Aslan was the leader in this conversation. The distance wasn’t too far, and the conversation’s content wasn’t beyond Aslan’s expectations.

“Your Excellency, what’s your opinion?” Koyomi spoke toward Aslan. Her purpose here was to gather information about Aslan, especially his personality.

To decide whether to fight to the death with the Fourth Primogenitor or surrender immediately. Now, her goal was achieved. She’d confirmed they could surrender to Aslan, the Fourth Primogenitor. And Sensai had gained immense benefits.

Thus, the Lion King Agency naturally didn’t want to miss this opportunity.

“Interesting.” Aslan’s voice reached Koyomi’s ears. “Your critical information has piqued my interest. Share the information, and I’ll decide whether to accept your surrender.”

Aslan’s laughter-filled voice echoed in the dim alley.

“Japan’s executives have decided to activate the Logic Bomb in Your Excellency’s body to destroy you and then select a new Fourth Primogenitor.”

“Oh? Interesting. So that’s the Logic Bomb, huh.” Aslan found things getting intriguing.

What was the Logic Bomb?

The Origin soul died too quickly, and the Sun Authority in his body was too strong. He felt nothing, and everything was already destroyed.

Hearing Aslan’s voice, Koyomi couldn’t help feeling immense excitement.

Good that Aslan was aware of the Logic Bomb in his body. That way, the Lion King Agency could offer further help and secure a higher position.

“Of course. It’s a safety device set by the Devas in Your Excellency’s body. But the Lion King Agency can help you remove the Logic Bomb.”

The Divine Vibration Wave Technique made magic and spiritual power from higher dimensions collide, neutralizing magic. Thus, it could resolve any magic.

“But I’ve already removed it?”

Koyomi’s heart sank. This was terrible news. It meant the Lion King Agency had lost its most crucial bargaining chip.

But she was also relieved. Relieved she hadn’t believed Japan’s nonsense that they could fully control the Fourth Primogenitor by activating the Logic Bomb. If they’d been reckless, who knew how many Lion King Agency members would survive?

“Oh, by the way, if you really want to surrender, why doesn’t the Lion King Agency matchmaking bureau introduce me to some candidates?”

Koyomi fell silent. A real silence.

The Lion King Agency matchmaking bureau—was he talking about them?

Did the Lion King Agency have a nickname as a matchmaking agency?

Koyomi said with a strange expression, “The Lion King Agency will send Mikos as observers and Shamanic War Dancers as escorts. But either way, it has nothing to do with matchmaking.”

“Exactly! That’s the classic Lion King Agency matchmaking style—meeting through observation!”

As he said that, Aslan’s voice couldn’t help but grow excited, his tone rising.

“So, where’s my date—er, observer? You’re not sending a few observers, that’s making things hard for me.”

“…But the Lion King Agency really isn’t a matchmaking agency.” Koyomi couldn’t help twitching the corner of her mouth. She still wanted to salvage the Lion King Agency’s reputation.

-

Title: Koyomi Doubting Her Life

“Matchmaking agency… er, no, can the observer make a few requests?” Aslan seemed to completely ignore her words, talking to himself. Of course, he might just not care.

“Ahem…” Koyomi pursed her lips but nodded. Since they’d expressed their intent to surrender, they had to show their stance.

Being useful was better than being worthless. Now, they just needed to select a suitable “candidate”… er, no, observer for this Fourth Primogenitor. This was already the best situation. The Lion King Agency could only seize this last chance.

“Good. She should be under sixteen, with high potential, a voice as good as a seiyuu’s. As for personality, serious, tsundere, junior, or petite girls are all fine.”

Koyomi fell silent for a long time, taking a deep breath, the corner of her mouth twitching slightly. She still wanted to clarify that the Lion King Agency wasn’t a matchmaking agency. But when she opened her mouth to speak, what came out was…

“Alright. The Lion King Agency matchmaking bureau guarantees Your Excellency won’t be disappointed.”

It seemed the charm paper left by her teacher, Endou Yukari, in her body had just taken control. Though she could resist with a bit of spiritual power, Koyomi, currently doubting her life, had no intention of resisting.

Could this be the right way to run the Lion King Agency?

Was the Lion King Agency really a matchmaking agency?

“Does Your Excellency have any other requests?”

“I think… for now, that’s it.” Aslan smiled, not continuing his joke.

“Then, in some time, when the Blazing Banquet Participants gather on Itogami Island, the Blazing Banquet opening ceremony will be held. At that time, the Lion King Agency welcomes your attendance.”

After saying that, Koyomi bowed slightly and left the alley. But she walked in a daze, as if the power of her black-framed glasses had suddenly intensified. She stumbled, unable to tell directions, and nearly crashed into a telephone pole.

It seemed the Lion King Agency matchmaking nickname had truly shocked her. Could Koyomi also be wondering if she’d be matched by the Lion King Agency’s matchmaking bureau?

After Koyomi left, Aslan, holding snacks in one hand, appeared beside Natsuki with Aurora. However, Natsuki stared at him, unable to help stepping back a few paces, showing a disgusted expression.

“So, you’re into younger girls?”

At that moment, Aslan turned, looked at Natsuki, and burst out laughing. “Relax, I don’t just like younger ones. I like them all.”

“That’s exactly what makes me more uneasy.” Natsuki put her hands on her hips, speaking with an unhappy expression. “I don’t get why you’re bothering with the Lion King Agency.”

“Is it really just to find an observer for yourself?”

“The Fourth Primogenitor’s power, Cain’s Miko, even the Cleansing—those shouldn’t mean anything to you.”

Hearing Natsuki’s words, Aslan tilted his head slightly, looked at her, and asked back, “You really want to know?”

“Fine, it’s no big deal to tell you.”

“Maybe to help my personal maid overcome her weakness to the sun, then save the narcissistic Star Spirit, and finally, build a nation where Demons and humans can coexist peacefully and achieve greatness.”

Aslan pinched his chin, thought for a moment, and said casually.

However, Natsuki lowered her head, a bit afraid to look at him.

A nation where Demons and humans could coexist peacefully? That was truly a dreamlike nation.

After all, the contract Natsuki made with a Demon to become a witch was for humans and Demons to truly live together peacefully. The heavier the contract, the harder it was to fulfill, and the greater the magical power gained.

To become one of the world’s greatest Attack Mages, one could imagine how heavy the contract Natsuki signed was. Of course, signing a contract wasn’t easy. At the very least, she had to genuinely intend it, truly want to do it, to sign it.

But Natsuki also knew this contract was unattainable, and the best outcome was being devoured by her Guardian. Yet Aslan now made her feel a bit cheated.

His casual, nonchalant confidence truly made Natsuki feel Aslan could easily accomplish all of this. She couldn’t help looking forward to the day when Aslan truly built a harmonious nation for Demons and humans.

“How about it? Want to join me?” Aslan smiled and looked at her.

Natsuki was silent for a long while, then snorted coldly. “Your personal maid again, your narcissistic Star Spirit again. You’re really something.”

Natsuki realized that achieving those first two goals was Aslan’s true aim. As for building that kind of Night Empire, maybe it was for her?

She couldn’t help feeling a bit embarrassed and hopeful, but what struck her more was… If she wasn’t mistaken, those two were women, right?

So, how big was this guy’s harem?!

“So, are you joining?” Aslan looked at her with an amused gaze. He genuinely admired Natsuki.

Natsuki was the type who maintained her kindness but wasn’t bound by morals or goodness. And she had a strong sense of responsibility and justice.

So Aslan really liked her. He wanted to make Natsuki his subordinate, somewhat like his relationship with Shirayasha. Of course, Aslan only saw one or two people suitable as subordinates. Natsuki was one of them.

“Doesn’t Natsuki-chan want to truly see the day such a nation is built?”

Natsuki looked up, glared at him, then couldn’t help laughing. “You’re tricking girls all the way to me.”

At that moment, Aslan smiled and said, “I prefer to call it a partnership.”

“Partnership?” Natsuki raised an eyebrow, speaking meaningfully. “Then what do I get?”

“Of course, you’d be my subordinate, my spokesperson, and help me handle various matters.” Aslan said mischievously.

He could already imagine the spectacular challenges he’d face returning to Little Garden and the countless invitations.

“Haaah, my instincts tell me there’s a huge trap in this.” Natsuki said angrily.

The position sounded nice—Aslan’s spokesperson. But who knew his true identity?

Spokesperson sounded exhausting, like there’d be tons of matters to handle. This guy was indeed a capitalist who loved exploiting, able to offer such contracts with a smile.

Natsuki sneered, then walked toward the alley’s exit. But she didn’t refuse, meaning she agreed to the terms.

Aslan shrugged, picked up Aurora, and followed Natsuki.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

At the same time, in a beautiful garden filled with flowers.

Three masked figures sat on thrones faintly visible in the garden’s center. This was the Whispering Garden, where Sanctuary Alliance leaders discussed international affairs.

The Whispering Garden wasn’t in the real world but in another dimension. Leaders entered as illusions to ensure their safety.

Though no major Sanctuary Alliance meeting was scheduled, three figures were already in the Whispering Garden, discussing. They were the three Primogenitors, rulers of the Warlord’s Empire, Fallen Dynasty, and Chaos Zone, standing at the world’s pinnacle.

The First Primogenitor, Lost Warlord, Ki Juranbarada, tall and imposing.

Another, so thin it was hard to tell if they were male or female, exuding a rotten noble aura, was the Second Primogenitor, Fall Gazer, Aswad-Guul Aziz.

The last, petite but spirited, unable to sit still and looking around, was the Third Primogenitor, Chaos Bride, Giada Kukulcan.

“You two, what are you waiting for? Did you invite someone else? I don’t recall any other nations invited to this meeting.” Giada couldn’t help complaining. She’d been sitting there so long, not here to play statues with these two.

“Giada, you’re still the same, unable to sit still.” Aswad couldn’t help speaking. Their voice was soft, hard to distinguish as male or female.

“What, you got a problem? Aswad? Wanna fight?” Giada said aggressively. Bored for thousands of years without a worthy opponent, she eagerly anticipated a fight with the Second Primogenitor.

“Enough. Outside the Whispering Garden, we three rarely meet. Now that we finally do, don’t start fighting right away.” Juranbarada couldn’t help intervening. He didn’t want to see friends he hadn’t met in thousands of years bicker upon reuniting.

“Fine, Ki! Just say what you want, don’t beat around the bush.” Giada waved her hand, urging him to speak quickly.

“I assume you both felt the powerful magical wave when Matrix No. 12 awakened, right?”

“A magical wave comparable to a Dragon Vein.”

After Juranbarada’s words, the other two Primogenitors fell silent.

No one understood better than them what this meant. A Beast Vassal of this level, this kind of magical power, wasn’t just about the original Fourth Primogenitor’s revival.

Even if the four Primogenitors’ magical power combined, it wouldn’t match that person’s Beast Vassal.

“Even the Beast Vassal that destroyed the Devas wasn’t as strong as this one.”