Chapter 32 - Dress-up Darling

— Lilith's PoV —

Being stuck in my room under house arrest makes me feel really lonely. I miss going to the internet cafe and feeling brother Boss' comforting presence.

Luckily, Professor Orion pops in sometimes with homework and even brings food for me. He's super nice and always encourages me to study hard and be a good student.

Clutching the charm brother Boss gave me, I miss him so much. I wonder when I'll be allowed to go out of here.

*Knock, knock, knock*

Hearing the knocking at the door, I call out, "Professor, is that you?"

No response. Maybe it's some stranger. "Are you a bad guy?" Still, there's no answer.

I have no idea who's outside.

Cautiously, I hold the charm brother Boss gave me close and get ready to open the door.

And to my amazement, when I swing the door open, there stands a prince! Wait, no way, it's brother Boss! I can't believe it!

I rub my eyes in disbelief because it's hard to believe my eyes!

But it's true! It's really brother Boss standing there!

Overflowing with excitement, I rush towards him and give him the biggest hug ever.

"Did you miss me this much? Hehe. I came to visit you." Brother Boss says with a warm smile.

Brother Boss is as kind as always. I'm so amazed that they let him inside the academy!

I knew he's super strong! He must've totally taken down that grumpy guard to see me! Hehe, I'm so happy!

As he pats my head, I snuggle closer to him, soaking in this wonderful feeling. I missed this feeling so much!

•••

As Luke made his way, all eyes were on him, the subject of curious gazes from everyone he passed. Some even tried to strike up conversations, but Olga's piercing gaze swiftly deterred any attempts.

Professors and students alike couldn't help but wonder about the enigmatic figure of Luke, speculating whether he might be a prince or someone with high status. Their intrigue followed him like a playful shadow, leaving them eager to uncover the enigmatic truth behind his presence.

In this atmosphere of fascination, Luke's journey became a captivating enigma, leaving all who encountered him with a sense of wonder and curiosity. Each step he took was a delightful mystery, and the guessing game of who the enigmatic traveler might be filled the air with excitement and intrigue.

As if under an enchantment, the crowd followed Luke's every move like glue, intrigued by his destination. Their curiosity peaked when he finally stopped at a particular room.

He exchanged a few words with Olga, assuring him he would take it from there. With a farewell, Olga waved off the followers, leaving Luke to continue his journey alone.

Soon after this event, rumors began to circulate like whispers in the wind. The mysterious origin of Lily became the subject of speculation, with people believing she possessed an extraordinary secret.

The tale grew, warning others not to offend her, as a prince charming was rumored to be her protector, ready to unleash his wrath upon anyone who dared to cross her path.

•••

Upon seeing Lily, Luke's heart filled with joy, overwhelmed by the adorable display of affection. Her longing for him reminded him of the precious moments he shared with his own younger siblings in the orphanage, making him nostalgic for those innocent times.

Determined to be her guardian, Luke was resolute in protecting Lily from any harm that might befall her. He knew he had to find a special gift to ensure her safety and well-being.

Before entering Lily's room, he delved into the system shop's armor section, searching for a gift that would serve as a protective shield for the little girl. His quest for the perfect present was to keep Lily safe from any enigmatic dangers that might cross her path.

Luke's eyes widened with excitement as he stumbled upon the perfect gift for Lily—an item called the "Guardian's Embrace." The bracelet's appearance was truly captivating, adorned with intricate patterns that interlocked in a mesmerizing dance. The soft, silvery glow emitted an aura of ancient wisdom, symbolizing the eternal watchfulness of guardians.

Without a moment's hesitation, he purchased the Guardian's Embrace, knowing that it would serve as a powerful symbol of protection and care for Lily. The bracelet seemed to hold an enigmatic power, as if the world itself had imbued it with their mystical essence.

With a sense of awe and wonder, Luke read the enchanting description of the Guardian's Embrace.

Upon activation, the bracelet would emanate a soothing energy, enveloping the wearer in an ethereal embrace that felt like a gentle shield. The notion that ancient guardians dwelled within, tirelessly protecting the wearer, further fueled Luke's determination to obtain it for Lily's safety.

Even though the price of 200 credits was steep, Luke didn't care. Lily's protection surpassed any monetary concerns and it was also part of his fault why she was in trouble this time.

Without hesitation, he made the purchase, knowing that the enigmatic powers of the Guardian's Embrace would be invaluable in safeguarding his dear friend.

"Lily, I have a gift for you," Luke said with a smile. Lily's curiosity was piqued, knowing that anything from her dear brother Boss would hold a cherished place in her heart.

As Luke handed over the Guardian's Embrace, Lily's eyes sparkled with excitement at the sight of the beautiful bracelet. Its intricate patterns and soft, silvery glow were even more enchanting in her hands.

With utmost care, Luke gently held her small hands and said, "Let me put it on for you." Lily nodded eagerly, thrilled to receive such a magical gift from Luke.

As the bracelet clasped around Lily's wrist, an enigmatic bond formed between her and the Guardian's Embrace. An ethereal connection was established, and Lily felt an immediate sense of safety and security, as if an enigmatic shield enveloped her being.

Although she sensed the enigmatic power of the bracelet, Lily didn't question it, as she knew that everything that came from Luke was a source of joy and comfort. She trusted her dear brother Boss implicitly, knowing that his intentions were always filled with care and kindness.

With the Guardian's Embrace guarding her, Lily led Luke into her room, eager to share this space with Luke. The room felt warm and inviting, a reflection of her personality and interests.

Luke took in the pleasant ambiance of Lily's room, appreciating the simple yet cozy atmosphere. Conversations with Olga had revealed that every student had their own room, and this knowledge made Luke marvel at the academy's apparent wealth.

However, upon closer observation, he noticed that Lily's room held very few possessions. A bed, a table, and a chair for studying, along with a modest cabinet, were the extent of her belongings. The realization struck him that Lily seemed to be living a frugal life, despite the environment of the academy.

Luke's heart swelled with joy as he browsed the system for more gifts to surprise Lily. He browsed the Clothes Section, where he couldn't resist selecting a variety of cute dresses for her.

With a grin, he approached Lily, holding the array of dresses, and said, "Lily, come and try these on! I'm so excited to see how they look on you!"

Lily's eyes sparkled with excitement at Luke's enthusiasm. She eagerly headed to the dressing room, ready to unveil a fashion show.

In the dressing room, Lily tried on the first dress.

Lily beamed with joy, twirling in the dress adorned with a multitude of frills. Her enigmatic charm and cuteness were amplified by the enigmatic outfit. She then waited to hear Luke's opinion.

Luke's eyes sparkled with delight as he exclaimed, "Perfect! You look like a princess!"

"Hehe." Hearing his praise, Lily couldn't help but giggle in pure happiness. The dress had not only enhanced her cuteness but also filled her with a sense of playfulness.

With each outfit Lily tried on, Luke continued to shower her with compliments and positive comments. The cycle of her trying on different clothes and his admiration repeated, filling the room with laughter and delight. In this fashion adventure, Lily's room became a runway of laughter and joy.

With a grin, Lily donned the final outfit consisting of a flowing robe, an elegant cape, and a pointy hat. She admired the pretty clothes and felt a playful sense of enchantment.

Excitedly, she stepped out to show Luke her transformation, expecting his usual positive comment. However, Luke's response took her by surprise.

"Woah! You look like a witch! Wonderful!" he exclaimed, his eyes sparkling with admiration.

At first, Lily hesitated, unsure of how to react to being called a witch. But then she noticed the genuine excitement and wonder in Luke's eyes. He wasn't using the word in a negative way but rather in a playful and enigmatic one.

Seeing Lily's solemn expression, Luke felt a pang of concern. "Eh? What happened?" he inquired gently, wanting to understand the reason behind her change in mood.

Lily hesitated for a moment before speaking, "Brother Boss..."

Luke always felt ticklish by the way Lily called him.

"You can just call me big brother or simply brother, whichever you prefer.."

He smiled reassuringly, patiently waiting for Lily's reply.

Lily's voice trembled with a touch of fear as she mustered the courage to ask, "Erm, brother... Do you hate witches?"

Luke's expression softened, and he immediately shook his head. "No, not at all! I don't hate witches," he reassured her in a gentle tone.

"Witches are awesome! They're some of my favorite characters. They possess powerful magics and can defeat most of the enemies with their enigmatic powers," he explained, his excitement evident.

Lily's worry began to dissipate, replaced by a sense of relief and happiness. Feeling comfort in Luke's acceptance of witches, Lily's fears were put to rest.

Lily's eyes met Luke's with a hint of determination as she confessed, "Actually, I'm a witch."

Lily's confession hung in the air, and Luke paused for a moment, considering her words seriously. But then, a loud laughter erupted from him, filling the room with joy.

"HAHAHA. Is that so? Then you must be the cutest witch out there! Fantastic, I have a witch sister," he exclaimed with a mischievous glint in his eyes.

As Lily's tears of joy flowed, Luke's concern deepened. He crouched down, gently patting her head, offering comfort and reassurance.

"Brother, is it okay to be your sister?" Lily asked with anticipation, her heart yearning for his validation.

Luke looked at her with an enigmatic smile, a glimmer of amusement in his eyes. "What are you talking about?" he replied, with a tone full of reassurance. "I already think of you as my sister. Hahaha come here!"

With those words, he pulled her into a warm hug, enveloping her in a sense of comfort and belonging. Lily's tears of joy were replaced by laughter as she hugged him back tightly.

Luke finally felt a sense of belonging, no longer alone in this world. Though he couldn't see his 'family' in Earth, he had found a new family here, one he was determined to protect.