To be the Villainess

O52.

Chapter 52

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I UNFOLDED the map, its corners worn and fraying from countless days of use. My gaze narrowed as I traced the intricate tapestry etched across its surface. Each line seemed to pulse with a hidden rhythm, guiding me forward.

“I’m getting closer,” I murmured, my voice low and resolute.

Beads of sweat clung to my brow, and I swiped them away with the back of my hand. My throat burned with thirst, so I knelt by the riverbank, the cool earth beneath me a momentary relief. Scooping up my water bottle, I drank deeply, savoring the crisp, refreshing taste. The river’s crystal waters sparkled under the sun, so inviting that, for a fleeting second, I entertained the absurd idea of drinking it dry.

Chewy, my companion in this journey, lapped eagerly at the water beside me, his tail flicking contentedly.

Several days had passed, and we had faced countless trials together. During that time, I discovered something incredible—Chewy could shrink down to the size of a regular cat and then transform back into his massive form. How great is that? I couldn’t help but smile.

“So cute…” I murmured, the words slipping out as I watched him.

My gaze shifted to the river’s surface, where my reflection stared back at me. My hair, once a beacon of change, had returned to its natural state, the vibrant hues now subdued. My eyes, too, had lost their eerie glow. A sense of normalcy had crept back into my appearance.

Good. I could now return and finish what I’d started. My jaw tightened as I imagined the Emperor’s face, twisted in agony. How satisfying it would be to watch him crumble, to make him feel every ounce of pain he’d inflicted. The thought alone sent a shiver down my spine, a dark gleam igniting in my eyes.

“Meow!”

Chewy’s sudden hiss shattered my thoughts. His fur bristled, his eyes locked on the river. My smile faded as I straightened, a chill creeping into my veins.

“What’s wrong?” I whispered, my voice barely audible over the sound of rushing water. I reached out to soothe him, but his ears flattened, and he bared his tiny fangs, his hiss growing louder.

I followed his gaze, my pulse quickening. The water rippled unnaturally, a dark shadow shifting beneath the surface. My breath hitched as a sudden realization dawned on me.

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The last training session will be given to you now!

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Of course. I have to defeat it, don’t I?

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Trial of the Celestial Siren

Defeat the abyssal-ranked monster using your abilities!

Rewards: Increase 5% of your lifespan, upgrade your twin daggers to their full level, and boost your power level.
Failure: Death.

Decide your course with great caution!

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