Is it wrong to try to build a criminal Empire?

chapter 15

Eina Tulle awoke slowly, savoring the last remnants of her dream as soft morning light spilled through her window.

The start of a new day.

She stretched beneath the covers, enjoying the lingering warmth before reluctantly sitting up. It was a bit later than her usual waking time, but she had earned this extra rest. She worked hard enough to deserve a few minutes of peace.

Her gaze wandered around her apartment. It wasn't the fanciest place in Orario, but it was cozy and dependable. The walls were clean, the floors sturdy, and a few of her fellow Guild employees also lived in the building, adding to the sense of community.

With a groan, she dragged herself toward the shower.

The hot water cascaded over her, washing away the last traces of drowsiness. She relished the sensation but reminded herself she couldn't dawdle—she was already running late.

But... wasn't today her day off?

Stepping out of the shower, she wrapped herself in a thick, soft robe and headed to her room to get dressed.

As she passed the living room, confusion crossed her face. What was she supposed to do today?

Her eyes landed on the calendar hanging near the shelf where she kept her books. Realization struck like a bolt.

"Monsterphilia…" she murmured with a smile. A day to relax and enjoy the festival.

Then the smile faltered.

"Monsterphilia!?" she yelped, her voice tinged with rising panic.

She was supposed to meet Bell! If she didn't hurry, she'd be late!

Storming into her bedroom, she scrambled to find something nice to wear. She couldn't let Bell think she was shabby!

'What have I gotten myself into!?' she thought frantically, pulling clothes from her wardrobe.

This is all Misha's fault!

---

The streets were alive with energy, laughter, and the excited buzz of civilians enjoying the festivities before the big show. Stalls lined the roads leading toward the Amphitheatron, the grand stadium where Monsterphilia would take place.

Eina stood near the bustling thoroughfare, scanning the crowd as she waited for Bell. To her surprise, she had arrived before him—she was sure he'd be there before her.

'Maybe he overslept?' she thought, shifting nervously as she adjusted her posture.

Her gaze flitted to her outfit, silently questioning if she looked presentable enough.

She had settled on a two-piece dress ensemble. The outer layer was a soft, short pink dress with off-the-shoulder sleeves, accented by a red ribbon tied at the center of the neckline. A belt cinched her waist, adding a touch of elegance.

Beneath the pink dress, she wore a black underlayer that ended just above her knees. The flared hem was subtly adorned with white trimming. The black dress was elegantly secured around her neck, completing the look.

She hadn't had time to pick anything better and could only hope her choice was pleasant enough.

'Why did I even listen to Misha?' she thought with a slight blush, fidgeting as self-doubt crept in. 'I was perfectly fine going alone! I don't need anyone—especially a man—to accompany me to a festival, thank you very much!'

"Eina, I hope I didn't keep you waiting too long," Bell's soft voice cut through her spiraling thoughts, making her flinch slightly as her cheeks flushed a deeper shade of pink.