Lackey's Seducing Survival Odyssey

Chapter 572: [Bonus (◐ω◑ )600 PS] We’re going to build... a Thruster!

Sighhhhhh...

Aether let out a deep, satisfied sigh, leaning back in his chair. His plate was spotless—he’d devoured every morsel without leaving even a hint of a stain. ”That was fantastic,” he said, nodding appreciatively.

”I’m glad you enjoyed it, Mr. Aether,” Emberlyn replied with a warm smile as she began gathering the plates.

Meanwhile, Thalia, still fanning him dutifully, looked like she was barely holding herself together. Her annoyance was written all over her face, but she forced herself to maintain her composure, though her sharp motions with the fan betrayed her growing irritation.

Aether smiled inwardly, amused by her visible frustration.

’This bastard!’ Thalia fumed silently, her teeth clenched as her gaze bore into him. ’Just a few days ago, he was nothing but a lowly servant, and now, he’s suddenly the Emperor of this Empire? What the actual hell?! And Mom, of all people, just obeys him without question! Ugh, this is so messed up!’

Her thoughts simmered as she continued watching Aether, who was casually playing with Snowflake, his expression relaxed and carefree. A twinge of something unfamiliar stirred in her chest, ’Yet... I like it,’ she admitted to herself, her cheeks burning.

The realization sent her into a flurry of rapid fanning as if she could cool herself down by sheer force of will.

Aether noticed her odd behaviour and raised a brow. ’What’s with her now?’ he wondered. ’Eh, she’s always been a bit weird. No point in overthinking it.’ He shrugged, dismissing it.

Turning to Emberlyn, his expression shifted to something more serious. ”Mother-in-law, we need to talk,” he said firmly.

Emberlyn nodded, setting the plates aside and removing her apron. Just as she was about to kneel before him, Aether’s tone softened. ”Please, don’t. You’re family to me. There’s no need for formalities like that.”

Emberlyn hesitated, looking conflicted. ”I cannot, Sir,” she replied, bowing her head.

He might not understand but here... Everyone should bow before the Emperor!

No one Exception!!

Aether sighed and glanced at Thalia for support, but she merely shrugged.

With another resigned sigh, Aether’s voice turned calm yet commanding. ”What if it’s an order, Emberlyn?”

Emberlyn froze, her body trembling slightly before she nodded and reluctantly sat down on a chair.

Aether shook his head, a faint smile tugging at his lips, ’It’ll take some time, but she’ll get there.’

Clearing his throat, he began, ”I’ll be honest—I’m not very good at politics. And while ruling this empire is an honour, there are more pressing matters I need to attend to so, I nee--”

”More important than ruling an empire?” Thalia cut in with a sharp frown.

Emberlyn shot her daughter a warning glare, making Thalia throw up her hands in surrender.

”Yes,” Aether replied simply. His tone carried an unshakable conviction. ”Far more important. The fate of all Five Empires depends on it.” Inwardly added, ’I need to seduce more women!’ with a serious face!

Thalia blinked, momentarily taken aback by his words.

”Anyway,” Aether continued, leaning forward slightly, ”I can’t stay here all the time. Someone needs to oversee this place in my absence—”

Before he could finish,

Thud!

”Aether!”

The door burst open, and Raven entered the room in a flowing white gown that clung to her curvaceous frame. Her damp hair cascaded down her shoulders, droplets of water glistening like pearls. Her wide, trembling eyes scanned the room until they landed on him. The moment she saw him, her face lit up with a radiant smile.

”Raven!” Thalia exclaimed, overjoyed. She rushed forward to hug her sister, but—

”Huh?”

Raven walked right past her as if she didn’t exist. Thalia froze mid-step, feeling a sharp pang of something she couldn’t quite name.... she crumbled like ashes!!

Aether stood just in time to catch Raven as she threw herself into his arms. Her trembling body stilled as she buried her face in his chest, inhaling his scent like it was her lifeline.

”I missed you~” she murmured, her voice soft and full of longing. She snuggled closer, her arms tightening around him as if she never wanted to let go.

Aether smiled, gently stroking her damp hair. He pressed a tender kiss to her forehead, holding her close.

’Damn it... Now I’m getting horny.’ He sighed internally, trying to suppress his rising heat. He motioned to sit her down beside him, but—