Volume 1 Chapter 691

Chapter 691: The Invitation

Patricia holds considerable expertise in the art of tactical retreat.

In this world we inhabit—a realm teeming with geniuses, monsters, and formidable beings—learning to yield at the opportune moment remains a vital lesson for any Superoperator.

For beyond every horizon lies greater heights, and beyond every sky, vaster heavens.

Though the girl before her appears merely eight years old, her cultivation level… well, Superlative Level.

Yet undeniably, she holds a fractional edge over Patricia.

Nevertheless, regardless of Patricia’s practiced humility, Lolth cannot tolerate such undisciplined antics from her disciple.

"Enough, Kanor…"

She approached Kanor and straightened the girl’s attire.

Having been teleported away earlier, Kanor had evidently taken time to compose herself.

Most bloodstains had been scrubbed away, and her wounded spirit showed signs of mending.

Yet the lingering toll of drained magic, the faltering "Versatile Kitchenware" within her core, and the frayed edges of her garments betrayed the ordeal.

"Defeating ‘Never-ending Night’ Philtes… that was a perilously close victory, wasn’t it?"

Lolth murmured softly, her hand resting gently on Kanor’s head.

Kanor inclined her face downward.

"His… the demi-god’s hidden abilities surpassed expectations. That tenacious vitality…" Her voice tightened. "Shattering his domain alone drained me completely."

"Even given another chance, I couldn’t guarantee defeating him."

Before her master, Kanor laid bare her vulnerabilities.

Though she’d maintained an air of unshakable confidence during the confrontation—even convincing bystanders like Lalea of her control—only Kanor knew the truth.

She’d balanced on the knife’s edge, victory snatched by the thinnest margin.

A rare moment of uncertainty in her prodigious life.

These admissions, Kanor had sworn to keep sealed within.

Yet when Master Lolth’s gaze softened with inquiry…

The words flowed unbidden.

For this…

Was her guiding star.

"I sensed as much…"

Lolth’s sigh carried the weight of shared understanding.

"I can see your astonishing talent—one that even fills me with envy—and the burgeoning power that accompanies it."

"In less than a year, you’ve managed to slay a demi-god… Such a terrifying pace of growth."

"But do not lose yourself along the way, Kanor."

"I’ve confronted divine beings twice and prevailed against stronger foes through cunning and resolve… While strength alone isn’t absolute, you must always act as the ‘weaker’ party—staying vigilant and fighting with everything you possess."

"No god or demi-god falls without struggle."

"Even after defeating Maria Diana once, I remain wary of her."

As Lolth spoke, Kanor nodded solemnly.

"I understand… Master."

"I have no doubt you do," Lolth replied, her tone hardening slightly. "You may not yet feel arrogance toward your enemies… but it already festers within you."

"I won’t dwell on criticizing Landlady Fuen’s methods… but since she permitted me to mentor you, certain truths must be shared."

"My earlier oversight was a failure, yet this is crucial: Kanor, never elevate yourself above others."

"Even the weak and foolish are living, independent souls… Unless necessary, never strip them of their choices or impose your will."

"Sending you here without consultation was my own arrogance… Learn from this mistake."

"Though such acts are commonplace—even excused as necessity—you must never forget…"

"This is wrong."

Lolth’s grave words sharpened Kanor’s expression.

"Yes, Master."

Her reply carried unwavering resolve.

"Maria Diana… is not your foe. She is mine."

Lolth’s declaration lingered as she studied Kanor’s thoughtful silence, then tousled the girl’s hair affectionately.

"Don’t strain yourself seeking immediate answers… Reflect on this in time."

"Still, triumphing over a demi-god at your Superlative-Level rank is remarkable. Your mother would rejoice."

"Truthfully, I’ve little left to teach beyond life’s harder lessons…"

"For combat guidance, observe my confrontation with Maria Diana. Consider it your final practical lecture."

Lolth turned to Dorothy.

"Apologies for treating your aunt as a teaching tool, Dorothy."

Dorothy shook her head, laughter softening her features.

"It’s alright… Teacher."

"Truthfully, I… wish to witness it myself."

She left the thought unfinished.

Though resentment toward her aunt lingered, it remained faint.

Her return to the Golden Peacock Kingdom sought to resolve her own inner conflicts and uncover the truth behind her mother’s prolonged slumber.

More deeply, she yearned to see Lolth champion her cause—a warmth she’d rarely known since childhood.

That her teacher and lover would fight for her justice mattered more than vengeance or past pains.

Lolth accepted this without probing further.

"If my beloved Princess Dorothy wills it…"

With a fluid gesture, she conjured a shimmering portal to a secluded courtyard within the royal city’s palace.

Bowing like a chivalric suitor, Lolth retreated one step, left hand clasped behind her back, right extended palm-up—a dancer’s invitation laced with tender promise.

"Join me in reclaiming what’s rightfully yours… my princess."

Dorothy blinked, then beamed, resting her hand in Lolth’s.

"Then I entrust myself to you… my dearest Teacher Lolth."