Thanks to Westheid’s diligent efforts over this period, the Qinghui Legion’s position in the Central Royal Court had improved significantly. One could even say that Duke Qinghui, relying solely on his seductive talents, had achieved a pivotal status and influence within the Central Royal Court. 𝚏𝕣𝐞𝗲𝐰𝕖𝐛𝐧𝕠𝕧𝚎𝚕.𝐜𝚘𝗺

Within the overwhelmingly female-dominated Elf Royal Family, dozens upon dozens of Elf Noble Ladies holding important positions had naturally fallen at the feet of the Qinghui Enchantress, becoming his devotees and standing firmly on Westheid’s side. Such a grand spectacle was something even adult visual novels wouldn’t dare to depict. One could only say that in a world governed by will, it’s best not to question the nature of the Extraordinary.

Westheid smiled.

"Alright, to be honest, while that’s certainly part of it, all of this was just a diversion while we waited. It’s useful, but not exceptionally so. After all, if you want to vie for influence within the Royal Court, it ultimately comes down to military achievements."

"Only tangible military achievements can grant you true status."

’It’s true that I’ve poached quite a few people from the enemy’s camp and factions, but it hasn’t had that great of an effect. Especially for the Grand Law Officer, it’s just a matter of losing a few turncoats. Eilvette’s true core strength, the Elite Tuners, haven’t shown any signs of wavering.’

’For all of Duke Qinghui’s painstaking efforts and laborious nights, all he had to show for it was poaching a few dozen nobles from the Royal Court and a handful of insignificant Military Officers from the outer circles... It wasn’t that these were the only female Elves in the Royal Court, but rather that those in higher positions could no longer visit the Duke’s bedchambers alone.’

"Now that we’ve established a foothold within the Royal Court, the next step is to confront the Demons. Only by achieving a string of victories can we strengthen the Royal Court’s trust in us. Then, we can gradually bring Reiya and the others in as well."

’Once the big three are reunited, what will happen? It’s a no-brainer. Westheid would only need to ally with the Wind Law Queen, and in terms of hard power, they would basically be able to contend with the Grand Law Officer’s faction on equal terms.’

"Elaine, I heard you’ve already made some breakthroughs in your research?"

After extricating himself from Hecate’s passionate kiss, Westheid turned to the Witch Speaker of the Ring of Clear Skies, who was standing to the side. This elegant and dignified Miss Witch with raven-black hair seemed unable to bear Your Majesty’s decadent lifestyle. She kept biting her lip, her legs pressed tightly together and rubbing against each other beneath her long, black-gauze dress.

Hearing Westheid’s question, Elaine finally let out a long sigh of relief. She clutched the bodice of her pure-white dress and said:

"Yes. After arriving at the Thousand Laws Royal Court, we used our connection to you to acquire some data from the Royal Court. After analysis, we’ve identified several of the Demons currently ravaging the Land of Rhythm. Based on our past experience with Them, weaving corresponding counter-Techniques shouldn’t be a problem."

"Unfortunately, the Demon we must currently face, the Master of Decay, is one the Ring of Clear Skies has never had contact with, let alone understands. Therefore, it will be difficult for us to be of assistance."

Westheid lifted a strand of the Red-haired Witch’s hair, feeling its silky texture slip through his fingers as he said:

"It’s fine. As long as we can counter the most critical Great Demons, that’s enough. The Master of Decay... Hmph. Even among the defiled shadow of Emperor Qianlu, there’s plenty of filler. There’s a world of difference between one Demon and another!"

’A Little Demon whose name I’ve never even heard of is probably just running rampant because it’s occupying a node of the Thousand Laws Ceremony.’

’It’s one thing to bully the locals, but that’s its limit. Without a countering buff against it, the Shadow-Born in my hands is by no means at a disadvantage.’

"The Qinghui Guard and the Stringed Swordsmen have integrated well enough. We could actually march out right now, but we’re still considered guests, so we’ll wait for the Grand Law Officer’s notice."

Upon hearing this, Hecate’s bewitching, deep purple eyes gleamed as she stared at Westheid.

"In that case, Duke Qinghui, your schedule should be quite open until then, shouldn’t it? We still have some Technique structures we need to... discuss with you. May we?"

Westheid raised an eyebrow. "Heh, that is indeed of utmost importance. It concerns the great war against the Celestial God’s Shadow. We must discuss it... vigorously!"

Duke Qinghui waved his hand grandly.

"If there’s anything you don’t understand, come and we can all exchange knowledge and learn together. Let’s pool our knowledge."

The moment he finished speaking, the Witches of the Ring of Clear Skies, who could no longer hold back, all rushed to join the "study group."

"Brother, we still have to patrol the camp, so we’ll be going now. Remember not to get too carried away."

Yolanda didn’t stay. She simply sighed and dragged the intrigued Mephit away with her.

’When the Monarch indulges in debauchery in broad daylight and neglects his duties, it falls to his trusted retainers to fulfill their responsibilities and help him manage his subordinates.’

And so, only Westheid and the assembled Witches of the Ring of Clear Skies remained in the bedchambers.

As fellow Demon Practitioners, they had far too much in common to discuss. With Hecate taking the lead, the "study group’s" discussions and exchanges became extremely lively.

To put it simply: the ultimate ’exchange.’ Ever had one like it? Truly an ’inter’mingling followed by a ’course’ of action!

Seeing this, the dignified and elegant Witch Leader shuddered and took two steps back, only for her back to bump into something full and soft.

"Sister Elaine."

Ailu’er took off the small jacket she wore over her shirt and hooked her hands behind her back. She bumped her shoulder against the raven-haired Witch Speaker and smiled.

"Why are you backing away?"

Elaine shook her head, her teeth biting her lower lip.

"I... I can’t quite handle this atmosphere. I’m just going to step out for some fresh air."