It wasn't that he had been NTR'd, but rather, it seemed like he had NTR'd himself.
The words twisted and turned, but the sentiment held true.
If the system's explanation was correct, it boiled down to one simple fact: he reaped all the benefits while pushing all the responsibilities onto autopilot.
But how should such a situation even be evaluated? Roy found himself with a mild headache over the matter.
"Forget it. I'll just seal this feature for now,"
Truth be told, the reason he used the split-soul crossing method was that he was still in his childhood, his abilities yet to fully mature, and the Sword Art Online world wasn't exactly a high-power universe. In contrast, for those high-level challenges in the future, he'd definitely take charge himself.
With this thought, most of his doubts dissolved.
Roy emerged from the bathroom, drying his shining blonde hair while dressed in a yukata.
Since tonight might become a memorable occasion, he'd taken extra care, even washing himself multiple times.
To be honest, whether in his previous life or this one, this was a first for him.
Roxy had always been the heart willing but the body weak, and technically, combining both his lifetimes, he was almost thirty.
For a first time, nerves were to be expected.
Roy's gaze landed on Asuna, her face already flushed crimson. She hurried into the bathroom, visibly embarrassed.
This time, the roles reversed—Roy sat on the bed, waiting for Asuna.
The soft mattress still carried the warmth of a young maiden, and the room was filled with a subtle, elegant fragrance.
The scent was indescribable—something like jasmine, yet not quite.
Roy dried his hair while staring at the ceiling.
But… was this really okay?
As the critical moment loomed, he found himself hesitating again. It felt like there were still so many loose ends he hadn't tied up, and the future remained an uncertain expanse.
Then again, considering how far things had already gone, there was no point in putting up a false front of righteousness now.
He hadn't arrived here with the purest intentions, and at this point, there was little left to justify.
All he could do now was ensure he gave her the best he could offer.
And the promise he had made earlier—"I'll stay with you"—wasn't just empty words.
If possible, he even considered discussing with Asuna about summoning her to the world of Mushoku Tensei.
Of course, it was too early to think so far ahead.
Listening to the splashing water from the bathroom, Roy couldn't help but feel restless. For some reason, his behavior reminded him a little of Paul.
Back then, he used to mock Paul, but now that he was in the same position, he realized he wasn't much different.
"Paul, I owe you an apology," Roy muttered, pressing his palms together in mock prayer.
The sound of running water continued. Gazing at the silhouette behind the frosted glass, Roy swallowed hard, quickly diverting his eyes to the ceiling—only to glance back moments later.
It wasn't entirely his fault; his mind was playing tricks on him.
Once upon a time, he'd been a model youth: no smoking, no drinking, and an utter disdain for gambling and vice.
While he wasn't the type to blush for half a day over a single conversation with a girl, this was still the first time he'd faced someone so breathtakingly beautiful. It was only natural to feel shy.
Time stretched endlessly, the seconds dragging into what felt like eternity. Finally, the sound of the bathroom door opening broke the silence.
Roy's gaze shifted toward Asuna.
Chestnut-colored hair cascaded over her shoulders, framing her delicate features, her fair skin glowing faintly.
Her figure left no room for doubt—curves in all the right places hardly did her justice. Fresh from the bath, she carried a rosy flush, an intoxicating charm that was impossible to ignore.
Roy's eyes followed the line of her slender neck downward, and in that moment, he could no longer hold himself back. Rising to his feet, he pulled her into his arms, cherishing every heartbeat as the night unfolded.
As they say.
The moon was cool, the forest serene, two figures danced beneath the eaves. Gold locks intertwined with fair skin, a shy first taste igniting a deep longing. In that fleeting moment, hesitation melted away, leaving only warmth to share. Beneath the quiet night, they sought solace in each other's embrace, hearts beating as one, till sleep claimed them with the promise of a new dawn.
...
The next morning.
Mushoku Tensei world.
At the break of dawn, faint light seeped through the windows as the sound of knocking echoed through the room once again. Roy stirred awake, his face clouded with confusion. He was on the verge of a splitting headache—he had been a little too excited last night and, without realizing it, ended up pulling an all-nighter.
But seriously, who was it this time? Who could possibly enjoy knocking on someone's door so early in the morning?
The knocking grew louder and more insistent, as though whoever it was would break down the door if it wasn't opened soon.
With a resigned sigh, Roy dragged himself out of bed, slipped on his slippers, and shuffled toward the door.
When he opened it, a small head of fiery red hair greeted him. It was Eris.
Roy fell silent, his mind running through the possibilities. He sighed internally; this kind of aggressive knocking could only belong to her.
After all, he'd only just arrived at the manor and knew few people here. There weren't many who would seek him out.
Still, what could this little troublemaker possibly want so early in the morning?
Yawning, Roy crouched slightly to meet Eris's gaze and asked bluntly, "What brings you here so early?"
The petite figure before him wore a crisp outfit of alternating white and black, her white blouse adorned with a neat black bow at the collar. Her slender neck peeked out just above it, while her skirt hung modestly above her knees. Her legs were clad in white over-the-knee socks, completing the polished look.
All in all, Eris was undeniably presentable, even charming in her own way.
Of course, Roy wasn't remotely interested in an eight-year-old. Especially not after the indulgent sweetness he'd experienced the night before.
Unless she had a compelling reason, he'd retreat to his bed and reclaim the sleep he so desperately needed.
Eris's features were undoubtedly delicate—if she could sit still and quiet, she'd make an adorable little girl. The kind you'd want to raise as a daughter. Her vivid crimson eyes bore into him with uncharacteristic seriousness as she declared, "I want you to teach me magic."
Roy blinked, momentarily stunned. He glanced at the dimly lit sky outside, then back at Eris's earnest expression.
Sighing, he asked, "Can you tell me why?"
Eris nodded, her face still grave. "I asked Ghislaine and Rudeus, and they told me that if I learn magic, I'll be stronger. At least strong enough not to feel so powerless when faced with kidnappers again."
Roy raised a brow but nodded in understanding. Her reasoning was sound. Still, it was surprising to hear such a thoughtful explanation coming from her. Could it be that she'd had an epiphany?
Regardless of the cause, as the saying goes, a prodigal son returning home is worth more than gold. Roy allowed himself a small, approving smile.
He reached out and gently patted Eris's head. To his surprise, she didn't flinch or pull away.
She didn't look pleased, either. She simply stared at him with those intense crimson eyes, as if waiting for his decision.
***
Bonus Chapter:
100 Power Stones = 1 BC
300 Power Stones = 2 BC
500 Power Stones = 3 BC
700 Power Stones = 4 BC
1000 Power Stones = 5 BC
***
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