The Villain Wasn't Supposed to Be a Licking Dog for the Heroine Part 1

(Suzune POV.)

With my meeting with Alexia-sama done, now I only had Ryujin to face. The infamous bodybuilding enthusiast.

I found Ryujin in his room, accompanied by Amanda as always. Their routine seemed unchanging – the rhythmic counts and movements of bodybuilding.

"1000, 1001, 1002..." Ryujin counted as he performed squats with determination etched across his face.

"Ryujin, could you possibly take a break?" I tried to interrupt his workout.

"No breaks, Suzune. Ryujin-sama is in the zone," Amanda chimed in, speaking on his behalf.

"Yes, I see that, but what I have to discuss is quite serious. Actually, more serious than that."

Amanda's response was swift, "Not possible."

'Oh great, this maid is determined to be a thorn in my side.'

"I have important matters to discuss, Amanda. Could you please not interfere?" I requested, trying to assert some authority.

Amanda's response was far from what I expected, "That's not how it works, S-U-Z-U-N-E."

Oh boy, her words were dripping with jealousy.

...

"Amanda, can you please hold off on the jealousy? I have something to talk to Ryujin about."

It seemed my attempt at teasing her had more impact than I initially thought.

Seriously...

...

In truth, my intention was merely to playfully tease her, but her snarky smile was getting on my nerves. So, I thought a little playful banter might be fun. I knew about her feelings for Ryujin, and I figured a little engagement news might ruffle her feathers a bit.

But now, her reaction was starting to irk me.

The way she looked at me reminded me of a girl who's giving the stink-eye to someone she was jealous of.

"Amanda, you don't have to worry. I'll go see what she wants," Ryujin intervened, setting aside his workout.

His body glistened with a healthy sheen, but not a drop of sweat marred his skin. Thanks to his natural ice magic, he remained remarkably refreshed even after such an intense workout. It was as if a perpetual breeze surrounded him, keeping his body cool and invigorated at all times.

His unique magic was a fascinating blend of his innate elemental affinity and his rigorous training regimen. Ryujin had honed his ice magic to a degree where it wasn't just about controlling the temperature; it became an integral part of his very being. The magic seemed to respond to his emotions, intensifying when he was focused or determined, and maintaining a gentle coolness during relaxation.

"Ryujin... I need to discuss something important with you," I began, my voice determined.

"Yes... I'm aware. If it's just going to be a façade until you face my mother's punishment – if that's all, then I'll be on my way," Ryujin replied, seemingly unfazed. He reached for a small bottle and took a sip, his focus seemingly elsewhere.

"Fufufu..." Amanda's laughter chimed in, carrying an undertone of amusement.

I felt a surge of irritation rise within me as Amanda's amusement echoed throughout the room.

"No, it's not going to be like that," I retorted firmly, refusing to let her mockery slide.

Despite my words, I couldn't shake the feeling that this engagement was more about political maneuvering than personal choice. My mother was determined to forge an alliance between our sects, and this engagement was her chosen method. While I had reservations about marrying Ryujin, I couldn't deny the benefits of a union between our powerful sects.

"Do you really think so? Well, regardless, you've done your introduction. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to resume my training." His focus was clearly on his own priorities.

"Fufufu..." Amanda's laughter echoed once more, and for a brief moment, I was taken aback by her amusement.

But what truly caught me off guard was Ryujin's nonchalant dismissal of the situation. His indifference was striking, almost as if he were completely unfazed by the prospect of our engagement. Despite my initial annoyance, I couldn't help but find his lack of concern intriguing.

"See? S-U-Z-U-N-E, it's time for you to make an exit. Ryujin-sama is occupied at the moment, hehehe."

Amanda's voice danced with a teasing edge.

"All right, I believe I've taken care of everything I needed to."

"Ryujin... about the false accusation, I... I'm sorry."

I finally managed to say, the weight of guilt obvious in my words.

"Ah... yeah... I don't really care. Blaming others like you did is just a strategy of the weak. But don't worry, I forgive you," Ryujin's voice held a surprisingly forgiving tone.

"Fufufufu."

I couldn't help but shake my head at Ryujin's nonchalant response. It was frustratingly typical of him – straightforward and unburdened by the emotional weight that seemed to hang over me. In my haste to address the accusations, I had underestimated his resilience.

"Seriously, Ryujin... I bothered to come here to make sure you were all right."

I muttered under my breath.

"Damn it, Ryujin... just you wait, I will defeat you... eventually."