Become their wicked yet gentle lord.

After thinking for a moment, he gently kicked Gerberi, who was lying beside him. The female knight's strong and sexy body was already limp, her legs spread apart towards Ryūka on the bed, while her upper body drooped off the edge of the bed. Her head was on the ground, her tongue was half sticking out and touching the ground, her upturned nose was twitching and moaning, her eyes were rolling back, and her feet were twitching and her toes were shaking.

"Hey, Your Highness has only been gone a short while, and you're already feeling unwell? The night is still long~ Is there still one place I haven't checked on?"

Liu Xia smiled, flicked her finger, and the magic gel scattered on the floor flew up, gathered together, and rushed into the cleft of Gerberly's buttocks where the silver hook had pierced her, her last pure place, like jelly!

"Gurgle, gurgle!!"

Chapter 42 It's your turn to move.

Ruka had anticipated Tipalotura's somewhat hesitant reaction.

However, that was merely Olivia and Mrs. Sophie's choice, and he certainly had no obligation to refuse based on Tipalotura's feelings, even though the two now had a close relationship.

"I had no intention of poaching your empire's members; they came to me on their own. Moreover, if you see this as a simple power struggle, you are greatly underestimating me, Princess Tipalotura!"

As Ryuka controlled the magical gel to flow into Gerberi's body, manipulating and playing with it remotely, she chuckled and muttered to herself...

As magical technology develops and iterates step by step, the way wars are waged and the daily livelihoods of the people on the entire continent will inevitably undergo earth-shattering changes.

However, Ryūka's thoughts were completely on a different wavelength from Tipalotura and the other Chosen Ones. Their thinking was at the very beginning of technological development, and their use of magical technology was extremely limited. To put it bluntly, they were only thinking about using magical power for warfare and magical research, burying themselves in creating stronger magical weapons and refining magical potions with different effects. In short, they were putting all their points into brute force.

But as an outsider from another world, Liu Xia wouldn't be so rigid. His vision extends far beyond battlefield combat; he intends to infiltrate every aspect of ordinary people's lives, gradually embedding his ideas and imprints into everyone's daily routines.

Because he knew very well that the so-called power of order was, in essence, built upon the beliefs, approval, and support of countless people. Relying solely on faith to grant combat power was destined to only gather a portion of the population, since the pie would never be enough to go around.

Therefore, for Ryūka, developing magical weapons and creating various magical items were merely the most basic operations. His true strategy lay hidden in seemingly insignificant yet indispensable details such as clothing styles, dietary habits, and lifestyles. Whether it was soldiers guarding the frontier, adventurers venturing into secret realms, nobles in high positions, or ordinary people, he wanted to ensure that everyone's daily life was inseparable from the changes he brought.

When the conveniences people enjoy, the quality products they use, and the new lives they lead all stem from his creations, over time, his status in people's hearts will naturally approach that of an omnipotent deity who leads a new era.

Thunder Fortress was the first key outpost for his expansion and strategic deployment after conquering Sochi. Olivia's display of the new uniforms was only part of the plan; she also planned to strengthen the arms trade between Sochi and Thunder Fortress. This would not only enhance Thunder Fortress's combat capabilities but also allow him to establish himself as the 'military leader of the new era' in their minds.

He knew perfectly well that this infiltration plan would inevitably arouse Tipalotura's suspicion and make her secretly wary. But he didn't care at all. Now, this little princess relied on him in every way, and this confidence was enough for him to calmly advance all his plans.

"Creating gods, attracting fans, crystallizing, harvesting... This strategy is essentially the same as the routine of religious proselytizing, only it is not the traditional way."

This is the Order Power Harvesting System that Liu Xia repeatedly pondered and tailored after breaking through the Star Authority.

His strategy was clever; he adopted a dual-track approach that ensured he would always make a profit.

Upon returning to Sochi, facing Kania and her core confidantes who have followed him all the way, as well as the elite army he has personally trained, he will adopt the traditional divine methods of the Crowell Cult. He will personally bestow spiritual power upon them and tailor-make enhancements to strengthen their abilities, using the most direct and tangible benefits to firmly bind the loyalty and faith of these core combatants, thus solidifying his most stable foundation.

Outside his core inner circle, he employed a completely new approach—his own "secular god-making law." Through commerce, magical technology, new fashion, and lifestyle entertainment—fields close to the masses—he continuously expanded his influence, establishing himself as a pioneer who led the times and revolutionized the world.

In essence, the power of order and the belief in gods are essentially the same thing; both are spiritual forces formed by the worship, trust, and awe in people's hearts.

Since people are willing to kneel and worship devoutly before the cold stone statues in the temple, why can't they also recognize and follow the one who created all of this because of their stable and convenient lives and the new era?

Commercialism creates idols, technology creates idols, and art creates idols!

This is the order that Ryūka decided to create after much deliberation. This model had already been repeatedly verified in his previous life, and there was no need for cumbersome brainwashing or proselytizing. With its extreme influence and tangible innovative achievements, it could gather a large number of loyal followers. The obsession and crystallization of faith among the people were in no way inferior to those ancient religions that had been passed down for thousands of years.

Compared to the outdated and rigid system of the Chloeur Cult, which relies solely on dogma and military intimidation to retain people, Ryūka's secular approach has a wider reach and deeper penetration, making it easier for ordinary people to accept.

Of course, this method is not without its flaws. Faith gathered through secular influence is ultimately not as reliable as the bond of direct lineage spiritual power, and its binding force on the lower classes is relatively weak, making it a double-edged sword with both advantages and disadvantages.

Therefore, Ryūka finalized this dual-track plan: using traditional divine power to bind core confidants and safeguard the military; and using secular technology and culture to expand the circle on a large scale, frantically harvesting the scattered power of faith and order to maximize profits.

After all, in this extraordinary continent, faith is a precious source that can be genuinely transformed into authority, spiritual power, and order. Every bit of recognition and following from ordinary people in the world is a solid foundation for his growth.

"Hmph~ Your Highness, don't blame me. It's better to watch the Chosen Ones grow stronger than to watch me rise to power, isn't it?"

Ryuu hummed, continuing to control the gel inside Gerberi's body with her magic, grinning wickedly as she flicked her fingers, penetrating deeper amidst Gerberi's moans and groans! Gerberi's entire body was pushed up by the large amount of gel inside her!

Her lower abdomen was bloated and distended, and the gel could even be seen moving back and forth in her intestines through the shape of her stomach. This prevented Gerberly, who was on the verge of fainting, from getting any rest. Her brain was going crazy from the endless sensory stimulation!

But the most humiliating thing, aside from the pain and shame, was that she felt unparalleled physical pleasure. This bullying gave the witch's desires within her an outlet, and the long-suppressed restlessness disappeared, replaced by a peaceful acceptance of pleasure...

"Gurgle...again...ooh!"

*Splash!* The wet sheets were once again covered by a powerful jet of water.

But even though she had just been tossed into the air, Ryusha controlled the gel to continue trembling, causing Gerberly to clutch her stomach and scream:

"Quick, quick, let these out... Ugh! I can't take it anymore!"

Hearing her cry and plead again and again, Ryuka finally smiled and said:

"Okay~ but you have to fulfill your bet first, right? You have to keep your word."

Gerberly's beautiful eyes were filled with sorrow. What Ryuka was referring to was the bet they made before the battle against the Heavenly Rank magical beast, a contest between her and Olivia to see who could achieve more merit. In the end, not only was she not put to use, but she was also affected by Bell during the battle, her witch power went berserk, and her battle merit was even negative! Naturally, she lost to Olivia.

The penalty for losing the bet is that she must serve Ryuka without any shame or dignity, just like Olivia did that day!

But she couldn't take it anymore. The gel in her intestines was trembling violently, and the feeling of wanting to urinate but not being able to was driving her crazy.

"There's no need to be so resistant, is there? It's just a matter of using your words to initiate things~ Your good prince has already done it all~"

Hearing Ryusha's provocative words, Gerberly immediately retorted:

"No, you're not allowed to insult His Highness! Oh my god!!"

"Still dare to talk back?" Ryuu sneered, manipulating the magic gel wildly, causing Gerberi excruciating pain, her body writhing as if possessed by a demon. Finally, she begged for mercy, crawling tremblingly on the floor to Ryuu's feet. Ryuu was already seated on the bedside, watching her proud head buried between her legs, a satisfied smile finally appearing on his face.

That's right~ Before, I was the one putting in all the effort, now it's time to lie down and let her serve me~

Chapter 43 You Run Away First, I'll Chase After You

Deep within the Thunder Keep dungeons, cold and damp, only one cell stood out as clean and tidy, far surpassing the surrounding cells. Gavin Reed, as a registered nobleman of the Empire, still enjoyed special privileges even as a prisoner. He was not bound by shackles, nor did he have to endure the harsh tortures of prison; he was simply confined here, his freedom restricted.

At the dungeon entrance, two guards stood watch, spears in hand, chatting idly. The entire Thunder Fortress was ablaze with lights and celebration tonight, everyone immersed in the festivities, but unfortunately, they were on duty and couldn't hear a sound of merriment.

"I really envy the brothers outside. Lady Olivia has broken through to the Heavenly Realm, so tonight she can drink and eat as much as she wants." A guard looked at the scattered lights coming from the end of the passage, his tone full of resentment.

“Who says otherwise?” Another guard shrugged and sighed. “That towering flame was visible even through the windows here.”

Just as the two were complaining and chatting, a refined figure slowly walked into the dungeon corridor.

"who is it?"

"it's me."

It was Thomas. He walked calmly to the two guards, presented them with a document bearing their full seal, and spoke in a serious yet somewhat informal tone:

"The General has a secret order: someone is planning a prison break tonight. To prevent any unforeseen circumstances, he has ordered the transfer of key prisoners. You should hand over your duties early and leave your posts. Subsequent defenses will be handled by designated personnel, which will help us avoid the risks tonight."

The two guards exchanged a glance, a fleeting look of understanding flashing in their eyes. They then took the secret order, read it, and feigned hesitation before speaking:

"I see. But Lord Thomas, isn't it a bit dangerous for you to escort him alone?"

Thomas pointed to the cell behind them, where Gavin was sitting, silently watching them coldly.

"What are you afraid of? His magic is locked, and he doesn't have his staff with him. I have a few brothers outside escorting him. Besides, I'm a high-ranking official. Instead of worrying about me, we've all eaten and drunk our fill. If you leave any later, you might not even be able to buy any wine at the tavern!"

"Hehe, then we'll trouble you, Lord Thomas. Let's go~" The two guards exchanged a smile, said no more, bowed and accepted the order, handed the key to Thomas, and then left with a look of relief, chatting and laughing.

"Thomas, what are you doing?"

As the two men's footsteps faded into the distance, Gavin raised an eyebrow and asked. Thomas strode to the cell door, retrieved the key, unlocked the cell, and whispered to Gavin inside, "Lord Gavin, your daughter has brought people to rescue you. They're waiting outside."

"Ada? Has she gone mad?! If this happens, won't I be branded a traitor?! What will happen to the Reed family's business in Linze Fortress! That stupid daughter of hers!"

Thomas didn't speak. He used a key to unlock Gavin's rune shackles, then took out a magically sealed letter: "She asked me to give this to you, saying you'll understand as soon as you see it."

Gavin took the letter, opened it, and frowned after reading it. Thomas was also curious about what was written on it, but Gavin immediately used his magic to erase the words on the letter and then casually tossed it aside.

"Oh shit!"

Gavin cursed, then stopped talking about what he had just said, immediately stepped out of his cell, and retrieved his noble attire and magic wand from the guardhouse outside. Unbeknownst to him, this seemingly intact set of personal belongings had been secretly tampered with by Ryūsha's men during the confiscation and sealing process—it contained a miniature magical tracking array and listening device, transmitting all movements and secret messages back in real time.

Regardless of what the letter said, Gavin looked grim. Thomas, however, couldn't care less; from the moment Ida's men approached him, his situation was worse than Lord Gavin's. If he didn't cooperate with the rescue, Ida would send his secret correspondence with Lord Gavin over the years to Lady Sophie. Therefore, he had no choice but to take the risk and plan to escape abroad with Gavin and his men.

The two left the cell and met up with several soldiers outside. Although they were all dressed as Thunder Fortress guards, they were all retainers of the Reed family.

"master!"

"Your Excellency!"

Upon seeing his former subordinates, Earl Gavin's expression did not improve. Instead, he stepped forward and questioned them with a tone of disappointment and frustration.

"Where is Ida? Where is she?"

A wry smile appeared on the faces of the group. They didn't say anything, but comforted Gavin as they walked through the alley. Along the way, they changed their clothes, disguised themselves as civilians, and blended into the crowd of people celebrating the festival, walking silently.

Along the way, the numerous reports about Olivia breaking through to the Heavenly Realm made Gavin grit his teeth even more, gripping the cloak he was wearing tightly.

The Heavenly Rank! If it weren't for the Heavenly Rank, how could I have been tempted by Greg and the others! And now I've fallen to this state!

"Say something, you lot! Where are you taking me? How are we supposed to get out of the city?"

Faced with Gavin's low questioning, the henchmen responded with wry smiles, leading him through a maze of streets to an inn. This inn had been booked by their mistress, Ida, as their meeting place for the night. As soon as Gavin entered, he saw another familiar figure.

"Greg!"

He glared at the man with the scars on his face, gritting his teeth. It was all because of those idiots from the Bauhinia! They must have been targeted by Liuxia long ago, that's why they were arrested so quickly!

However, Greg's attention was not on him, but on arguing with someone.

"What do you mean you only saved a few of us? Where is Miss Monica?!"

Opposite him stood Gavin's daughter, Ida.

"I already said, he's inside the Crimson Flame Sage's tower."

Ida's cold response infuriated Greg, but there was nothing he could do but fret.

"That young lady is the Empress Dowager's niece! If we don't bring her back, even if I take you back to Bauhinia, our situation will only worsen!"

However, Gavin was even more enraged than him. He stepped forward, rushed in front of his daughter, and demanded an explanation:

"Ada! What's going on in your letter?!"

Seeing her father's fury, Ada remained calm and said:

"Just as you see."

"you!!!"

Gavin's pupils twitched twice, about to explode, when suddenly a powerful magical aura erupted from Ada's body!

A high-ranking official! This made both Gavin and Greg's pupils tremble slightly. Just like Monica, his daughter was also a high-ranking official under the age of twenty! Even Gavin, her father, didn't know!

Gavin couldn't help but recall the contents of the letter...

Compared to him, his daughter Ida was the first to make contact with the southern forces. His later connections with the Bauhinia Kingdom, including obtaining the enhancement potions, were all secretly facilitated by his daughter Ida!

The force known as the 'Chosen Ones' is the real mastermind behind the current control of the Bauhinia Kingdom. Even the Queen Mother is nothing more than a puppet they are using!

“You have no other choice, Father. If you want to live, please come with me. As for Linze Fort, we will return one day.”

"You in the end..."

Seeing his daughter so unfamiliar, Gavin felt a chill run down his spine. But Ada simply smiled, then turned and walked into another room, where a teleportation magic circle had already been set up on the floor…

After a short while, the door of the inn was blown apart by the relentless wind and snow.

"Miss! Wait a minute! My shop has already been booked by other customers!"

Ignoring the innkeeper's pleas, Melanie stepped into the inn with a smile. The place was already deserted, but the traces of the teleportation array on the floor had not completely faded.

"Just like that kid Ryūka said, they would never choose to leave through the city gate..."

Looking at the fresh, undiminished traces of magic, Melanie chuckled and began studying the teleportation anchor point.

Chapter 44 Leaving the Empire, the Beginning of the Southern Journey

The sword was pulled from flesh and blood; with a mere tremor of the youth, the enormous monster's body exploded as if inflated. Beneath the sky, the monsters on the ground fled in panic, and beneath the banners bearing the sacred tree emblem, the Royal Knights launched a effortless assault; their strength made it seem like a mere hunt…

This was the umpteenth small country we passed on our way to the Bauhinia Kingdom after leaving Thunder Fortress. The imperial delegation's visit was like a heavenly army descending, and helping these vassal states exterminate the monsters within their borders would also enhance the prestige of the Otus Empire.

Ryuka flicked the blood off his sword, his floating figure slowly descending. He had just slain the leader of a horde of monsters, a beast comparable to a peak Grand Master. When he landed, he found himself in a village. The adults, shouting "Long live the Otus Empire!" rushed towards the spot where the monster's flesh had fallen, searching for any valuable materials and parts.

Ryusha was immediately surrounded by a group of figures. The chattering children couldn't believe that the humorous and kind older brother who had stayed there was actually an envoy sent by the Otus Empire who had casually eliminated the monster that had plagued the area for so long.

"Honestly, the environment in the south is teeming with monsters. It's astonishing that the capital hasn't dealt with this for years. I'd heard it wasn't like this before..."

While complaining, Melanie's beautiful figure floated down from the sky and landed next to Ryūka. Although as an ice and snow archmage, she was not uncomfortable with the gradually warming weather in the south, she still changed her mage robes into a cooler style to match Ryūka and the others, but without losing her noble dignity. Her slender figure standing next to Ryūka made the two look particularly well-matched.

Ryūka patted the head of the child beside him, feeling the faint admiration in their hearts transforming into power flowing into their bodies—weak, but undeniably real. He casually took out some candy he had prepared; sweeteners were a rare commodity in this era, and the children immediately snatched it all up. Then, with Ryūka's soothing words and persuasion, they returned to their parents, who seemed awe-inspiring and hesitant to approach.

"From what you're saying, it wasn't like this before?"

After the children dispersed, Ryūka looked at Melanie. The southern continent had a warm climate and abundant resources, with monsters and some rare plants and minerals far surpassing those of Ottus in the north. Therefore, any mage of noble birth would have more or less traveled south to study in their youth, and Melanie was no exception. Seeing Ryūka's curious gaze, Melanie nodded:

"That's right. According to my investigation, the environment of the Southern Continent has changed rapidly over the past ten years or so. The number of monsters has increased significantly, but the naturally formed magical crystals and other plant-based materials have not increased. This has put increasing pressure on the defense of many small countries, and many people are unable to survive, leading many to become thieves and bandits. Even some powerful nobles with military achievements have begun to establish their own independent regimes. If it weren't for the Empire's suppression and its desire to prevent trouble in the South, the dynasty might have changed hands long ago given this environment."

All these unnatural phenomena, as heard by Ryūka, seemed to point to one entity—the Chosen Ones organization. How exactly they nurtured a Celestial-rank magical beast like Ultras remained a mystery to Ryūka and his companions. But if they could raise Earth Dragons, then they probably had methods for nurturing other magical beasts as well. Not to mention, they even possessed a secret technique for accelerating and stimulating human potential. These things gave Ryūka a bad feeling; perhaps the future situation would be more complex than he anticipated.

The two returned to the magic carriage, where Adela had already prepared tea, smiling and bowing as she sealed it. Since the Thunder Fortress incident, she had become increasingly submissive. And looking at the Gold Coin Girl, her fair skin and golden curls glowing in the sunlight, who among the villagers could imagine that such a dignified and graceful beauty was the slave of this handsome young man for the night?