An Extra’s Rise in an Eroge

Arthur focused on the small, fluffy red chick and activated [Observer's Gaze]. A translucent window appeared before his eyes, filled with information that made his jaw drop.

Name: ???

Race: Primordial Phoenix Hatchling Discover exclusive content at empire

Rank: Unranked (Potential: ???)

Bloodline: Origin Flame Sovereign

Abilities:

Flame Embryo (Dormant): The hatchling carries the latent power of primordial flames. Once matured, its flames can burn through any material, including divine constructs.

Bloodline Domination (Passive): Commands absolute reverence and submission from any being with a lower-tier bloodline.

Mana Absorption (Passive): Instinctively absorbs ambient mana to fuel its growth.

Eternal Rebirth (Locked): Grants the ability to resurrect infinitely from its ashes, evolving after each rebirth.

Arthur blinked at the screen in disbelief. "Primordial Phoenix Hatchling? Origin Flame Sovereign? What did I hatch, the king of all birds?"

[It seems so,] Sol replied smugly. [Congratulations, Arthur. You've just become the 'parent' of one of the rarest and most powerful creatures in existence.]

Arthur groaned, rubbing his temples. "This is insane. How am I supposed to raise something like this? I don't even know what it eats."

[Relax,] Sol chimed in with its usual calm. [You don't need to figure that out on your own. The system shop has everything you'll need. It's just a matter of how much you're willing to spend.]

Arthur let out a heavy sigh, shaking his head. "Great, just what I needed—another expense." He glanced at the hatchling, its fluffy form looking almost comical. "But... it's worth it."

The tiny chick let out a cheerful chirp, hopping closer to him. It nuzzled against his hand, its warm, soft feathers a surprising source of comfort.

Arthur raised a brow, watching its antics. "And now it's already attached to me."

[Of course,] Sol replied with a hint of amusement. [You're the first thing it saw after hatching. Congratulations, 'parent.' And, as a bonus, system rewards come with 100% loyalty. It will never betray you.]

Arthur let out a relieved chuckle. "Good. I can't even imagine what would happen if a divine beast turned on me."

[So,] Sol continued, [are you planning to give it a name, or are we just going to keep calling it 'chick'?]

Arthur tilted his head, staring at the little bird, which was now staring back at him with an almost expectant look. "A name, huh?"

[Yes, a name,] Sol said dryly. [Something fitting for its future glory. If you can't think of one, I'm sure Alicia would love to help.]

Arthur rolled his eyes. "I can handle this, thank you very much." He turned to the hatchling, its golden eyes gleaming with intelligence. "Alright... how about Ignis? Short, strong, and fitting for a phoenix."

The hatchling chirped in delight, flapping its tiny wings as if in approval.

Even Zephyra, still crouched in a submissive pose, let out a soft trill of agreement.

Arthur let out a long breath, a small smile tugging at his lips. "Ignis it is, then."

[Good choice,] Sol said, sounding genuinely impressed. [It's simple yet powerful.]

Arthur crouched down, looking at the fluffy hatchling. "So, little guy, are you hungry? Want to eat something?"

"Chirp! Chirp!" The hatchling nodded enthusiastically, hopping in place as if it could understand him.

Even Zephyra gave a soft trill and nodded along, her golden feathers ruffling slightly.

"Alright, alright," Arthur said with a chuckle. "Sol, what do phoenixes eat?"

[That depends on your budget,] Sol replied, the teasing tone unmistakable.

Arthur rolled his eyes. "No budget. Just tell me."

[In that case, fire-attribute mana stones are ideal. They'll boost Ignis's growth by 10%.]

"Fine. Get me some fire stones for Ignis and the regular feed for Zephyra."

[Hey,] Sol interjected, mock offense in its voice. [That's blatant discrimination. You're pampering Ignis with fire stones while giving Zephyra just regular feed? She's not a system product, you know—she has feelings and can retaliate if you don't maintain a proper bond.]

Arthur sighed, rubbing the bridge of his nose. "Don't make it sound so bad. Zephyra hasn't complained about anything yet."

[That's because she didn't have anyone to compare her treatment with until now.]

Arthur groaned. "Fine. You win. Just give me two packs of each. Happy now?"

[Ding! Purchase complete. 20,000 EP spent.]

Arthur's eyes widened. "What the hell?! Why is it so expensive?"

[You're not buying some cheap grain,] Sol explained, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. [These are mana stones. Quality doesn't come cheap.]

Grumbling, Arthur spread tiny chunks of fire and thunder mana stones in front of his familiars. Ignis chirped excitedly, pecking at the fire stones with vigor, while Zephyra elegantly nibbled on the thunder stones.

"Enjoy your feast, you little freeloaders," Arthur muttered before heading off to freshen up. "This better be worth it."

Arthur stepped out of the bathroom, a towel wrapped casually around his waist. His damp hair clung to his forehead, and water dripped lazily down his well-toned torso. As he entered the room, he was surprised to find Alicia, Eveline, and Althea sitting on the bed, playing with Ignis and Zephyra, who seemed perfectly content after their meal.

"What are you guys doing here?" Arthur asked, his voice curious.

The three girls turned toward him. Eveline and Althea instantly froze, their faces turning crimson. Steam metaphorically rose from their heads as their eyes darted anywhere but at him. It was the first time either of them had seen a half-naked man, let alone one as handsome and confident as Arthur. Both had spent their lives sheltered within the church, and the sight was overwhelming.

Alicia, however, remained unfazed. She'd seen him in less before, so she crossed her arms and shot him a disapproving look.

"Hey! What are you doing?" Alicia snapped. "How can you just walk out like that with girls here? Go back and change!"

Arthur smirked, leaning slightly against the doorframe. "Why should I? I'm not the one who's embarrassed."

"But we are!" Alicia shot back. "Don't you have any shame?"

"Why should I?" Arthur teased, his grin widening. "You're the ones who barged into my room. I gave you the spare key, Alicia, not to bring others along."

"Would you quit it already?" Alicia scowled, clearly losing patience.

"Alright, alright." Arthur chuckled, retreating to the bathroom. Moments later, he reemerged fully dressed, his hair slightly drier but still charmingly tousled. He sat down casually beside Alicia on the couch, folding his arms. "Now, care to explain why you're all here?"

Eveline and Althea still hadn't recovered from their embarrassment, their heads bowed low to avoid eye contact. Alicia sighed, clearly the only one capable of maintaining composure. "The Saintess wants to visit the slums to help the needy. She's here to ask if you'll accompany her."

Arthur raised a brow and turned to Eveline. "You want me to waste my precious weekend running around in the slums?" His tone made it clear he wasn't thrilled with the idea.

Eveline nodded meekly, her voice barely audible. "Y-Yes."

"Nope. Not happening." Arthur's response was blunt and unwavering.

Alicia, however, had other plans. Without a word, she pinched his side hard.

"Ouch! What the hell, Alicia?" Arthur flinched, rubbing his ribs as he glared at her.

Ignoring his protest, Alicia turned to Eveline with a reassuring smile. "Don't worry about him. He'll meet you at the academy gate at 4 PM."

Eveline's face lit up with gratitude. "Thank you!" she said, her voice sincere but still tinged with embarrassment. She grabbed Althea's hand, and the two quickly excused themselves, practically fleeing the room in their flustered state.

As the door clicked shut, Arthur leaned back on the couch with a sigh, running a hand through his hair. "Would you mind explaining what's really going on here, Alicia?"

Alicia smirked mischievously, moving to straddle his lap, her face close to his. "What do you mean? I'm doing this for you, you know."

Arthur raised a brow, his hands naturally resting on her hips. "Oh? And how exactly is dragging me into the slums for the Saintess doing me any favors?"

Alicia leaned in, her fingers trailing up his chest as she whispered, "I'm giving you a chance to spend some time alone with Eveline. You know, to get closer."

Arthur froze, his thoughts derailed as her lips brushed lightly against his neck. "Wait... What?" He gently held her shoulders, straightening her up so he could look her in the eye. "What are you even talking about?"

Alicia tilted her head, her tone casual yet teasing. "Exactly what you heard. I want you to make Eveline yours."

Arthur blinked, trying to process her words. "Where is this nonsense coming from?"

"What? You don't find her attractive?" Alicia teased, a sly grin on her face.

Arthur's ears reddened slightly as he stammered, "No, it's not that... I mean—she's beautiful, of course—but that's not the point! I'm asking what's driving you to suggest something like this."

Alicia's playful demeanor softened as she let out a quiet sigh. "Arthur... Yesterday, when you were fighting that demon, I felt so helpless. I couldn't do anything to support you. And I know that wasn't the last time you'll find yourself in danger. So, I thought long and hard about it last night."

Arthur studied her expression, his curiosity piqued. "And? What did you decide?"

Alicia met his gaze, determination flickering in her eyes. "If I can't be of any help to you in battle, then I'll make sure you have someone who can. And who better than a Saintess? Eveline is strong, pure-hearted, and beautiful. Most importantly, she can heal you when you're hurt. Honestly, who's better at healing magic than a Saintess? She's practically a walking first aid kit." Alicia ended with a wicked little laugh.

Arthur stared at her, both amused and stunned. "I can't tell if I should be flattered or concerned by how... calculated that sounded."

Alicia grinned. "I'm just looking out for you, dummy. So? What do you think?"

Arthur chuckled softly, pulling her closer. "I appreciate the thoughtfulness, but are you really okay with this? Helping me find a 'mistress,' as you put it?"

Alicia shrugged, her fingers playing with the collar of his shirt. "Why wouldn't I be? Nobles having multiple partners is pretty normal, isn't it? Besides, I'm happy being your first and favorite."

Arthur's heart swelled at her sincerity. He cupped her cheek gently, leaning in to capture her lips in a deep, lingering kiss. When they finally pulled apart, he rested his forehead against hers. "I love you, Alicia. I don't know what I did to deserve you, but I'm grateful every single day."

Alicia smiled, her voice soft and affectionate. "And I love you too, Arthur. Now stop being so mushy. And explain what's the deal with this hatchling."