Chapter 37: Mutual Agreement
Chapter 37: Mutual Agreement
Yuma summoned Encia and Ophilia. It was to renew their contract.
My lord, are you really okay with this?
Ophilia cast a worried glance toward Shiron. Her clenched hands met at her chest, and tears welled up in her eyes.
I knew it! I knew my lord would choose me. Ive always believed in you!
On the other hand, Encia couldnt hide her excitement. A big smile spread across her face, and she clenched her fist in a triumphant gesture.
Shiron sat on the sofa, comparing the two and their opposite reactions.
So, youre happy?
Of course! Im finally free from this suffocating castle. I was so touched I almost cried.
Encia lightly dabbed around her eyes. Shiron looked at her in disbelief.
Why are you so elated while Ophilia looks so dejected?
The boys gaze shifted to the side. Ophilia hesitated a bit, then opened her mouth slowly.
I am happy too.
She couldnt lie to her lord. However, she was genuinely worried. Instead of showing her joy, a deeper emotion of concern was evident.
But Im worried about your well-being, my lord. I wonder if someone like me can be of help to you.
Ophilia, are you questioning my decision?
Shiron stared at Ophilia, his eyebrows knitted in confusion. The anticipation of the contract renewal had dampened his mood. He felt that Ophilia still didnt trust him completely.
This isnt good.
Normally, he wouldve just laughed it off, but the situation was critical due to the upcoming contract. Encia confidently voiced her trust, but Ophilias concern made him uneasy.
She still doesnt see me in a good light.
Shiron massaged his neck as he continued to gaze at Ophilia.
Why do you worry about that?
Well, still
I made this choice despite Yumas recommendation. Even if it comes with consequences, Ill bear them.
Yes.
Ophilia replied in a soft voice and nodded slowly. Yuma, seeing the situation settle, walked towards Encia and Ophilia.
Shall we begin then?
Shiron nodded from his position on the sofa.
Contracts. In this world, those possessing mana were able to inscribe contracts on their souls. Both parties needed to agree to a stipulated price, and the value varied depending on the entity. Commonly pledged assets included wealth, body parts, souls, and even another persons life under certain conditions.
However, contracts with demons were somewhat special.
Under everyones gaze, Yuma began to unbutton her blouse. Her movements were decisive, but Shiron felt time dragging by.
Finally, Yuma stripped down to her underwear. Her pale skin, deep red hair, black lingerie, and the markings all over her body were revealed. These were details never shown in the game setting. It was strangely exciting.
Marks remain on the body of one who makes a contract with a demon.
Lets start the contract dissolution. Starting with Encia.
Following Yumas command, Encia stood before her.
Its been so long that I barely remember the location.
Encia began to scan Yumas body, searching for her mark. Although it was embarrassing to expose oneself like that, Yuma cooperatively raised her arms to help Encia.
Finally, Encia seemed to have found her mark and stopped her head movements.
Left inner thigh.
There, a jagged, sharp image was etched.
Alright.
Encia gripped Yumas leg and stuck out her tongue.
A red tongue traced over the black mark etched on pale skin.
!
Ripples emanated from near the leg, and Encia slowly stood up.
Its done.
Encia tapped her tongue with her fingertip several times. No longer bound by her contract with Yuma, she was no longer wearing a maids uniform.
Dressed in a red-toned dress, Encia exuded a different aura than before. Shiron admired her, rubbing his chin.
You didnt just change after the succession ceremony.
I feel a bit embarrassed. The maid outfit wasnt so bad either.
You look good.
Thank you for the compliment.
Encia gracefully greeted him by slightly lifting the hem of her red dress.
Is that all to the release?
Yes. With this, my contract with Encia is voided. Now, its your turn, master.
Where would you like the mark? Chest? Thigh? Back of the hand? Lips? Id prefer the lips.
Dont just decide on your own. Lets check the contract first.
Shiron handed a parchment to Encia, who flashed a seductive smile. She playfully caught it with one hand, her demeanor becoming oddly cheeky. The corner of Shirons mouth twitched.
Lets see Party A will definitely kill the demon lord within 30 years, and Party B will absolutely cooperate with Party A. In the event of failure, Party A offers both eyes to Party B.
Any issues?
Its a bit lacking, but theres no loss for me. I even get to leave here, so its very beneficial for me, isnt it?
Encia handed the parchment to Yuma and slowly approached Shiron.
So, have you decided? I still think the lips are best.
Id love to give you a passionate kiss, but
Shiron chuckled as he took off his indoor shoes and socks. Sitting on the sofa and extending his right foot, he seemed to be suggesting she should kiss it.
The sole of the foot.
?
Encia looked puzzled. The sole of the foot?
The sole of the foot.
Kindly, Shiron reiterated the spot for the still-confused Encia. She leaned forward, arms crossed.
Isnt this a bit much? Not the chest, thigh, or side, but
No. I thought about this all day yesterday. I still have to go to the Sacred Kingdom later. What if they see a mark implying a deal with a devil? At best, I wont be executed.
Then, Ill just kill everyone.
Encia spoke nonchalantly, laughing lightly. She had nothing to lose.
If I die, do as you please. It wont be my problem by then.
Shiron teased, extending his foot towards her. Sighing deeply, Encia knelt down.
How about near the tailbone? It wont be seen there either.
I have to bathe and sauna with the high-ups.
Ugh I cant tell whos the real devil here.
Resigned, Encia closed her eyes and held Shirons foot. Anticipating the impending pain, Shiron clenched his fists and shut his eyes.
Smooch~
Soft lips touched the sole of his foot. Ripples spread through the room as a jagged mark began to form. Shiron had expected to feel as if his flesh was being burned, but he only felt a slight tickle.
Not as bad as I thought.
Shiron opened his eyes and looked at the black mark on the sole of his right foot, identical to the one that had been on Yumas thigh earlier.
Before him, Encia had changed back into her maid attire.
Next is Ophilia.
Yes.
Like Encia, Ophilia began searching for her mark on Yuma.
Unlike Encia, Ophilia didnt take long to locate it.
Ill begin now.
Her gaze settled on Yumas right shoulder. The mark there, shaped like intertwining roses, was prominently displayed.
Well, then.
Just as Ophilia was about to touch Yumas shoulder with her tongue
Wait!
Encia stepped forward to stop Ophilias actions.
Why are you doing that?
Lets first check the contract details and give a verbal agreement.
You were worried.
Ophilia looked down sadly. She realized that she wasnt trusted by her friend.
Im sorry. Its not that I dont trust you; its for the young master.
Mm I understand your feelings.
Ophilia gave a lonely smile, took a piece of parchment from Shiron, and read it.
I am satisfied with both sides. Ive checked it.
Good.
Ophilia then lightly touched Yumas shoulder. Everything else proceeded similarly.
In the blink of an eye, she changed into a green dress
Thud!
And her head hit the ground.
What just happened?
Shirons eyes widened. It all happened so fast that he couldnt even react.
Ophilia was pinned down, her arms bent backward, and her face pressed hard against the floor. She blinked her large eyes, looking up at Encia, who was on top of her.
Thats too much.
But, your gaze was different from usual.
At Encias response, Ophilia looked sad, but soon a wavering smile took its place.
Well, theres no helping it then, young master. Please step on my lips with your foot.
Uh Okay. Im not doing this on purpose, so dont resent me.
I wont.
Just like reassuring a child, Ophilia spoke in a gentle voice. With a nervous expression, Shiron reluctantly stamped on Ophilias face with his foot.
Shiron, who had previously felt nothing for Encia, was now filled with regret.