Aria woke up the next morning in Dante's arms. There was no longer dizziness or pain, just a sense of warmth and a slight awkwardness. He was still asleep, his face serene without the usual cold, tyrannical expression. Aria stirred slightly, and Dante immediately pulled her tighter, drawing her into his embrace, burying his face in her hair. His steady breath on her neck made her shiver.
She tried to gently slip away, but Dante held her tighter, as if aware of her intention. "Where are you going?" His voice was deep and husky, his eyes slightly open as he looked at her.
"I need to go to the medical area," Aria said, trying to keep her voice calm. "The soldiers need me."
Dante chuckled softly, a possessive laugh. "They can wait. You were mine last night. And this morning too." He kissed her forehead, a surprisingly gentle kiss. "Don't worry. I'll send word."
Aria was helpless. She had no choice but to lie still in his arms, feeling the strength and warmth from his powerful body. Dante's touches were no longer rough but had become tender, affectionate. He stroked her hair, placing light kisses on her cheek, then her neck. Aria felt a wall within her slowly melting. She began to find herself drawn into Dante's exclusive indulgence, something she never thought she'd accept.
When the sun was high, Dante finally allowed her to leave. Aria stepped out of the tent, feeling everyone's eyes on her. This time, it wasn't just curiosity, but clear jealousy from the women in the camp. In particular, a beautiful woman in soft silk attire stared at Aria with undisguised hatred. It was Lady Lan, the daughter of a general under Dante, who had long harbored dreams of becoming his wife.
Lady Lan didn't miss her chance. She walked straight up to Aria, her voice full of spite. "You, nameless outsider. Dare to seduce our General? Who do you think you are to claim that position?"
Aria stopped, turning to face Lady Lan. She wasn't used to this kind of verbal sparring, but she wasn't easily intimidated either. "I am simply doing my duty. What the General does is his business." Aria replied coldly, not wanting to get entangled.
"Duty?" Lady Lan sneered. "Your duty is to climb into the General's bed, isn't it! Do you think a bit of ordinary beauty can hold him? General Dante is not easily captivated by a commoner like you."
Aria frowned. She was used to criticism, but this time it felt slightly different. Not because of the insults, but because of the clear jealousy in Lady Lan's tone. This showed that Dante, despite being tyrannical, was a man of great allure, and her position beside him was a target for many.
Suddenly, a deep, powerful voice echoed from behind. "Lan!"
Dante. He stood there, arms crossed, his eyes as cold as ice fixed on Lady Lan. His face was expressionless, but the latent anger made Lady Lan's face turn pale.
"She is my advisor. Not someone for you to casually insult." Dante's voice was low and husky, but strong enough to silence all whispers around. "And what happens between her and me is none of your concern."
He turned to look at Aria, his gaze softer, yet still possessive. "Go, Aria. You have much work to do." Then he glanced at Lady Lan again, a look cold enough to make her step back.
Aria knew she had just been protected, and that protection came from Dante. This made her feel both safe and even more bound. This general, he not only took her body but also began to control her relationships and her life in this world. The seeds of jealousy from Lady Lan, and Dante's intervention, were just the beginning of new troubles and challenges awaiting Aria.