NOVEL NEXT Chapter 35: I Can Become Anything
Thus, Theodora became torn.
Despite her complaints, if given the choice, she would undoubtedly try to monopolize Aske. Sharing him with Peggy would be acceptable... After all, in the East Solomon Empire, it's not uncommon for husbands to keep mistresses, so she might as well let Peggy be the mistress, at least she knows her roots.
However, if what Aske said is true, monopolizing him would become an impossible task.
The Empire could single-handedly battle any side, but if all the other girls united, Theodora's side would definitely struggle to support itself, even with Peggy added.
From this line of reasoning, whether considering personal interests or national security, Theodora must join this alliance.
Of course, the outcome of joining the alliance, besides creating a peaceful and stable international environment, naturally includes negotiating the transfer of the squad leader's ownership.
In the absence of any side having a dominant negotiating position, the negotiation result is obvious: distributing Aske's time into certain units, it's just about how many each person gets.
But... isn't this essentially equivalent to the squad leader establishing a harem?
So this was your plan, Aske?!
With this thought, Theodora felt an indescribable jealousy and sense of defeat.
Monopolizing him is impossible because she can't win against the union of other girls; abandoning him is also impossible because other forces on the continent have already united. Not joining means isolating herself from this powerful alliance... which means the only choice on the table is to join.
But if she joins, should she compete for the squad leader's ownership? It's a pity to give up, because regardless of personality or power, the squad leader is the best choice for her husband and co-ruling emperor. Although he has a bit of a dubious character, it doesn't really matter, as personal integrity is irrelevant for rulers.
The only thing Theodora cannot accept is that once she demands ownership, she would have to share the husband with other girls... For her, who prides herself on beauty and status, this is a huge humiliation.
Darn! Why must I become part of the squad leader's harem!
"I need to think this over," Theodora said, standing up with a complex expression.
This so-called thinking is basically just a delaying tactic. The Storm Empress knew clearly, from her feelings for the squad leader, considering her choices for a partner, or from the standpoint of the Empire's interests. She will eventually choose to agree.
Although joining the harem is unpleasant for her, people excel at convincing themselves. Spending time to think about how to bind Aske's heart, thereby gaining the highest position in the harem and relegating other girls to the roles of concubines and mistresses... thinking this way, it seems somewhat acceptable.
"Then, tonight will be left for Peggy." She thought, a bit sourly, then forced a smile to bid farewell to the two before pushing the door open.
Peggy curled up in Aske's embrace, giving him a sensation reminiscent of Nora, fragrant and soft.
But Nora smells like shampoo and body wash, while Peggy carries a fascinating, sweet scent, likely related to the pollution characteristic of her Undead Bloodline.
In the past, Aske would have felt entirely uncomfortable, feeling that being close with Peggy like this essentially betrayed Medea, Eleanor, Nora, Miel, Mia...
Of course, here the psychology law of dubious men applies: when you betray one person, it's easy to feel guilt and remorse, but when you betray a crowd, you basically don't care anymore.
Whether it's casual hookups, crime, or borrowing money, this law is universal.
Soon, Peggy crawled out of his embrace, loudly proclaiming to cook for him—a clear attempt to challenge Nora's authority in this aspect.
Aske thought carefully, it seemed Peggy indeed learned a lot from Nora: like when they left Constantinople, learning to drive from Nora; seeing Nora's habit of keeping notes, she also started journaling.
Also, due to Nora's occupation as a healer, she set up a laboratory in the cellar of Stovefire Island Manor to prepare some medicinal remedies, and Peggy began researching pathogens in the cellar; while sailing the Atlantis Ocean, seeing Nora steering the ship, she also wanted to learn.
"Why suddenly start cooking?" Aske entered the kitchen, seeing Peggy adeptly chopping vegetables like a young bride, couldn't help but laugh and ask.
"Because a wife always needs to master some cooking skills," Peggy replied, stirring the soup in the pot, the aroma of the meaty bones wafting in the air, "Although it might not be as delicious as Nora's cooking, I've learned for several years, so I am quite confident."
"You seem to always compare yourself with her?" Aske asked tentatively.
Peggy's back paused briefly, then she laughed and said:
"Not just her."
"Aske, I have self-awareness. Among your team, though I came the earliest, I'm far from being the most charming. I can't compare my face to Theodora's, my bust to Medea's, my legs to Eleanor's, and even in terms of wife's traits and skills, I'm not Nora's competitor."
"Actually, you don't need to compare with them," Aske hurriedly said, "To me, Peggy is just Peggy, doesn't need to be anyone else."
"Is that so?" Peggy revealed a small happy smile, turned around and hugged him, after a while quietly said, "But you are constantly staring at them."
"You stare at Theodora, Medea and Eleanor's particular parts. When eating Nora's food, you reveal a contented expression. I have always taken note, Aske..." She pressed her delicate face against Aske's chest, softly said, "So I have always wondered when I could become them?"
"When will your gaze linger on me, making you show such contentment, Aske..." Peggy murmured, hugging him tightly as if fearing to lose him again.
Aske could only hold her in silence, unable to speak. These genuine words from a girl struck him deeply, making him feel that saying another word would defile this pure love.
"But, it's okay!" Peggy suddenly wiped away her tears, lifted her head with a smile and said, "Because I can become them, even surpass them! You like long legs, big chests and perfect faces, don't you? I can transform into them!"
As if to prove herself, her body began to squirm, soon growing the Knight Girl's long legs, the Enchanting Demon's ample bosom, and the Empress's beautiful face, teary yet smiling, looking deeply at Aske.
Aske: !!!
Is this the legendary peerless beauty? Combining the strengths of everyone in one body! A perfect figure, how terrifying!
"Not only that, whether you're fond of gourmet food, or enjoy outdoor activities, I can learn..." This peerless beauty hugged him again, her tone growing softer, "As long as you like..."
"I can give it all to you, Aske..."