Another maid, Tika

As they turned from the end of the street to the one leading to Raydon's house, Belicia suddenly stopped and cried out.

''What are they doing here? '' She was fixated on the black vehicle ahead of her.

Raydon was taken aback by Belicia's reaction and inquired. ''Whose car is that? ''

Raydon and Belicia were gazing at the car when the door opened, and a woman emerged who was as stunningly beautiful as Belicia and wearing a similar maid costume.

''This is really interesting. When I couldn't find him at home, I assumed you had taken him somewhere, but where were you for so long? ''

The woman frowned as she cast a glare at Raydon with her bright blue eyes. As she spoke, she raked back her hair that had fallen over her elf-like pointy ear.

''There's something different about you.'' The woman looked into Raydon's eyes. She expected to be met with the blank, meaningless stare she was used to, but what she saw in Raydon's eyes was something different.

When she looked into those eyes, the woman got goosebumps. His pupils resembled a vast void, ready to devour anything that came its way, like a greedy black hole.

''Who are you? No, you are still the same person, but… '' The woman furrowed her brows. Raydon, standing in front of her, was the same soulless body she had always seen. But something was different about him now, something very different.

Raydon did not respond to the woman's question. She was looking at him, trying to understand what was going on, and Raydon was doing the same with her.

'The maid Belicia was referring to must be this person. She seems to be strong. '

Raydon had a gut feeling that this person was just as powerful as Belicia, if not more so.

Belicia had stated that she was not the one to look after him, but that there was another maid responsible for him. The person in question was most likely the maid in front of him.

''Does she pose a threat to my secret? '' Raydon asked as he turned to look at Belicia. But after observing Belicia's expression, he understood the question was pointless.

Belicia's white fair forehead, which resembled that of a doll, was wrinkled. She was gritting her teeth and had a scowl on her face.

''Why are you here, Tika? '' Belicia asked in a heavy tone.

After hearing this, Tika finally turned her attention away from Raydon and toward Belicia.

''Haa? Who are you speaking to? Naturally, I'll be here. After all, I am my young master's personal maid. To always stand by his side is my responsibility. '' Tika smiled innocently as she spoke.

''Who are you trying to fool? You only ever come here to check whether the person you're calling "young master" is still alive or has finally died. '' When Belicia could no longer take it, she yelled.

''Belicia, You must be dreaming. I was always here and was the only one who looked after the young master. On whose orders are you here? You shouldn't be here at all. '' Tika's innocent gaze grew threatening as she continued,

''Are you certain you want to stand between the young master and his battle maid?'' Tika asked, looking at Belicia as if she were insane.

Belicia could only respond by clenching her fist and remaining silent. Every big family had their own set of rules and traditions. The battle maids were one of them.

Raydon's battle maid was not Belicia. And, unless there was a direct order from the family, her involvement in this matter would result in severe punishment.

''Young master, I had only returned to the mansion for a short time at the family's request. I apologize for having to leave you alone at this time. I see you've recovered miraculously from your illness. I believe we should notify your family as soon as possible.'' Tika made a bow, put her hand on her chest, and then spoke politely.

Raydon might have actually believed Tika's actions if he hadn't been able to put the pieces of his jumbled memory back together.

The battle maid Raydon's family had selected for him was Tika, in fact. However, there were additional facts involved as well. Raydon had been neglected by Tika, who had left him to perish in this place. His family was most likely behind Tika's actions thus far, and he knew that trusting Tika and returning would only make things worse.

''I have no plans to return,'' Raydon stated as he made his way towards his house.

''I'm sorry, but I was just being polite when I asked. Please pay attention to what I'm saying and get in the car on your own.'' Tika smirked as she folded her hands behind her back.

The driver, who was waiting by the car in a suit, opened the back door and motioned for Raydon to enter.

"He said he doesn't want to go with you. Keep in mind that he is still your master. '' Belicia saw Tika's insistent demeanor and intervened, realizing that things were about to get ugly.

''Don't be silly, Belicia. I keep insisting because I want to help my young master regardless. After all, we battle maids only exist to support and guide our young masters in making the best decisions possible. ''

Tika sang as she slowly drew nearer to Raydon. "Now, young master. Please allow me to guide you in making the best decision.''

Raydon's instincts immediately told him to get ready for a fight when he saw Tika approaching him with a menacing gaze. 'It will be difficult.'

Raydon understood he had no chance of victory. But he had no desire to give in without a fight. Even if he had to admit that he was an item holder—which he would have to do if he ever went back to the family—he still intended to fight the enemy in front of him with all his might.

"Hoo, I guess my young master is no longer a frightened cat, but a tiger," She spoke before suddenly taking a step forward and sprinting toward Raydon. She aimed her hand at Raydon's throat.

'She is fast. 'In the face of this speed, Raydon felt helpless. He had the means to repel this attack thanks to his godlike reflexes and martial instincts, but his frail body was powerless to assist him.

Raydon managed to raise his hand at the last second, just as he was about to say the following words,

''Refl…''

''Tika!! '' Belicia's furious voice was heard.

Raydon could only see a long smooth leg kicking Tika after hearing that.

*BAM*

Tika's body was thrown by the impact of the kick, and she collided with the car with a loud thud.

Belicia stood in front of Raydon, her gaze fixed on Tika's body, which had caused a large dent in the car.

*****

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In addition, an auxiliary chapter featuring the character illustrations has been published, you can check it out.

You can also check out the comment I made to address some questions in the book reviews section.