From Pawn to King: Ruling a Harem of Chaos
Chapter 208: The Rescue Team Arrives (2)

Chapter 208: The Rescue Team Arrives (2)

It seemed reinforcements had finally arrived—though a bit late.

Under everyone’s gaze, a senior student with golden curls and black stockings took the lead. Her high ponytail swayed as she strode confidently forward, her long, slender legs accentuated by the sleek black stockings. The tight red dress she wore outlined her perfect curves, while a shimmering flame-like adornment at her waist added a touch of brilliance.

Her radiant, stunning face exuded a mix of vigilance and resilience, making her appear like a savior descending from the heavens.

'I’m so badass!'

Lilith scanned the surroundings, hoping her striking entrance would earn admiration from the younger students.

Unfortunately, her timing was off.

While everyone admired her elegant demeanor, their minds were still captivated by the earlier image of Shia standing atop a mountain of corpses, holding his ground alone against countless enemies. He embodied bloodshed, decisiveness, and unwavering determination—the god who had shielded them.

The stark contrast between that awe-inspiring scene and Lilith's current entrance was striking.

'Too tame.'

Having witnessed a true hero, the students found the senior’s display more theatrical than inspiring.

Shia barely managed a glance at her before his vision turned black. A familiar softness enveloped his face, accompanied by a faint, intoxicating fragrance and a stifling warmth.

Lia had rushed over and pulled him into her embrace, pressing his face firmly against her ample chest.

The emptiness in her heart was finally filled. The crazed obsession and anxiety in her eyes melted away as she held him close.

Her melodic voice, laced with worry, was like the gentle chime of celestial music.

“Master, are you okay? Don’t worry, I’m here to protect you now!”

As she spoke, images of the carnage she had witnessed on her way in filled her mind, sparking fear and guilt.

“It’s my fault…I failed to protect you…”

Her voice trailed off, tinged with remorse.

Emerging from the soft, warm sea of her embrace, Shia looked at the petite and delicate elf princess before him, feeling a sense of relief. He reached out and pinched her small, smooth face.

Soft and slippery—it felt amazing.

“This isn’t your fault,” he said gently. “Who could have foreseen something like this? Besides, look at me—I’m fine, aren’t I?”

Lia looked up, her large, innocent eyes gazing at the handsome boy before her. The slight sting on her face where he pinched her reminded her that this was all real. A bright smile lit up her youthful features.

Shia turned his attention to the approaching rescue team led by the senior students. His voice was soft but steady.

“It’s good that you’re here now.”

“The immediate priority is to tend to the students in our group. After the intense battle, most of them are completely drained.”

“I’ll have to leave this task to you…”

His voice grew fainter as the world around him blurred once more. The dizziness he had been suppressing surged back, overwhelming him. Shia closed his eyes, exhaustion pulling him into unconsciousness. His body wavered before collapsing in front of Lia.

---

When Shia woke, he felt something soft beneath his head—a comforting sensation. The sweet scent surrounding him filled him with a sense of calm and bliss.

But something about the sensation felt…different.

It wasn’t Nia’s gentle warmth, nor was it Rong’s silky smoothness. This was something else—firm yet supple. The unique feeling left him puzzled.

Memories of his earlier exhaustion and collapse flooded back. So, whose lap was this? Could it be Lilith trying to curry favor with him?

As he regained awareness, a low, clear voice reached his ears. Though calm, it carried a warmth that was unmistakable.

His eyelids fluttered open, revealing a view obstructed by soft, rounded peaks. His throat tightened. The figure seemed to sense his awakening and leaned forward.

Her delicate face came into view—exquisite and cold, with an ethereal beauty. Her features carried a touch of aloof detachment, her cherry lips full and glistening, irresistibly soft. A white ribbon obscured her eyes, hiding the emotions beneath.

But Shia knew this face well.

His lips moved, his voice hoarse and uncertain. “Sistine…Senpai?”

A hint of joy flashed across Sistine’s face, her lips curving ever so slightly.

“You’re awake?”

Her voice brimmed with happiness. Shia’s sudden collapse had terrified everyone at the scene. Seeing him awake now brought immense relief.

During his unconsciousness, Sistine had taken it upon herself to care for him. She had been the team leader for this trial, and the severe missteps that occurred weighed heavily on her. If not for Shia, she didn’t dare imagine the consequences.

Determined to make amends, she insisted on looking after him. It was her way of taking responsibility for her mistake. At the same time, he was her friend.

When a friend was in need, wasn’t it natural to care for them?

Sistine wasn’t aware of the subtle emotions hidden in the depths of her heart.

Although the cleric had assured her that Shia’s collapse was simply due to exhaustion and overexertion, and that he only needed rest, she couldn’t help but worry. Only now, seeing him awake, did her heart feel slightly at ease. If something had happened to him because of her, she would’ve been consumed by guilt.

Shia glanced around. The white ceiling, the bright windows, and the peaceful silence of the room all exuded a sense of serenity.

“Where are we?” he asked.

Sistine snapped out of her relief and explained, “We’re back at the academy. You’ve been unconscious for three hours.”

She had been incredibly worried while he was unconscious, her mind racing with worst-case scenarios. Now, she could finally let out a sigh of relief.

After explaining, Sistine bit her lip, hesitating for a moment before lowering her gaze and softly saying, “Shia, thank you for everything this time.”