Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

[Kim Dokja, about that favor...]

I swallowed nervously as I looked over my shoulder to Persephone sitting in the back. She was smiling at me.

"Ah, are you looking for a payment or..?"

[No, not coins.]

"Another hunt scenario?"

There was a mischievous glint in her eyes that filled me with dread.

[Another scenario, yes, but not a hunt. You know the one.]

Of course I did. She had tried to offer this scenario to me before the serpent hunting one. It was unavoidable now.

"..There isn't another option?"

She hummed as she pretended to think for a moment.

[Well, I could certainly come up with another one. But you don't want to draw out your debt for too long, do you?]

I turned to stare out at the darkness, the silence speaking for me. The elderly Mass Production Maker glanced at me curiously but was otherwise focused ahead.

[It is a perfect time for you to do it. You are in the right place, with him... And I'm sure that woman would help.]

Of course, she already decided who I would do the scenario with. I turned around in my seat to look at her again.

"...If I accept it, I don't have to explain it to him, do I?" I ignored the unhappy face of Anna Croft behind the Queen, shrinking in my seat at her laugh.

[Well, you don't have to if you don't want to. But I can't guarantee it will make the scenario any easier.]

"Knowing Yoo Joonghyuk.." I sighed, running a hand through my hair. "Okay, yes. I'll accept it this time."

Persephone's expression had an unknown edge to it, but she didn't say anything more.

[The constellation 'Queen of the Darkest Spring' has commissioned a scenario for you!]

[You have received a new personal scenario!]

「 [Personal Scenario - Mother of Monsters]
Category: Personal
Difficulty: ―
Clear Conditions: The Underworld requires new additions to their forces. Fertilize the monster egg inside you then give birth.
Time Limit: 20 Days.
Compensation: None.
Failure: ―
* You have been given a special status condition to aid this scenario. 」

I groaned lightly as I slid down in my seat, a hot weight settling in my stomach upon the scenario's activation. This was not going to be fun...

Upon returning from the Gourmet Association, I quickly sought out the Breaking the Sky Sword Saint. Once alone, the giantess stared at me with a complicated expression.

"Saint-nim, I need a favor..." I swallowed uncertainly, running words over in my head a few times in order to find the ones I wanted to use. She patiently waited for me to continue.

"Uhh, how to say this..." Despite my best efforts I could feel my face heating up. "I.. want to sleep with Yoo Joonghyuk."

[Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' covers her mouth.]

[Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' is blushing madly.]

[1,000 coins have been sponsored.]

As always, this archangel was doing unnecessary things for my companionship with Yoo Joonghyuk. It has been no secret that she'd been longing for us to have a display of skinship, but now I was dreading it even worse. I couldn't just hold his hand or sleep beside him in the same bed..

Uriel will probably go broke with what this scenario is asking for.

The Breaking the Sky Sword Saint raised her brow at my words. "Alright, and this involves me how?"

My face was burning at this point. It felt like my skin would melt off. Nonetheless, I had to power through.

"I mean, could you..." I looked away, wondering when I would actually die of embarrassment. "I don't know! Please help me, Saint-nim!" I gave up trying to shy my way to the point I was attempting to make, staring desperately up at the tall swordswoman.

Yoo Joonghyuk's teacher laughed heartily, patting my shoulder with just enough restraint to prevent me from crumpling like a tin can.

"Ya want me to be your wingman, eh?" Her eyes sparkled as if she were overjoyed to get her disciple laid. I could feel my ego deflate as I nodded pathetically.

"Don't you worry, I know just what to do." She nodded, guiding me out of the room. She took me to a separate cabin, walking into an empty bedroom. The room had a simple decoration style, but the real good part was the massive bed at one side of the room. To the giant Breaking the Sky Sword Saint, the bed was probably a normal, comfortable size. To the Kim Dokja stood beside her, it was a cloud of heaven.

"Put this on," she tossed a simple Murim-style robe at me before leaving the room. "Feel free to look around. I'll go find him for you."

I ignored the flood of indirect messages that theorized my plans, dressing quickly before taking a look at things.

[Kim Dok ja is in tr ou ble]

The Fourth Wall didn't seem bothered despite these words. I sighed as I picked up some interesting scrolls on the bedside, laying back on the pillows to read.

I got absorbed in reading about some of the history of the First Murim, excited about some things that weren't mentioned in Ways of Survival. It was probably just mundane information to the locals, but to me it was invaluable.

"What are you doing?" I was startled by the rough voice in the doorway, looking up at Yoo Joonghyuk. I couldn't read his expression, was he angry? Sweat dripped from his body, muscles bulging against robes from his intensive training. By the way, did he always look like such an explicit model..?

I swallowed the thought as I composed myself, looking back at the scroll in my hands. "Reading. What are you doing?"

It was quiet for a moment as Yoo Joonghyuk burned holes into me with his glare. This damn bastard caught on immediately, didn't he?

"Is this because of you? What did you plan?" His eyes narrowed suspiciously, and I considered my options which seemed to be death or debt to the Underworld. Now that I thought about it, Persephone wasn't so bad.

[Constellation 'Queen of the Darkest Spring' smiles at you.]

...On second thought, maybe it was better to try with my companion first.

"What did your teacher tell you?" I put away the scroll and sat up, avoiding answering his questions for as long as I could get away with it.

He frowned at me. "She just said I had to switch rooms. Why are you here?"

[Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' can barely contain her excitement!]

"..Perhaps she had something to do with it?" I pointed up at the flood of indirect messages from Uriel. Yoo Joonghyuk stared at me again. The silence made me want to flee.

[Yoo Joonghyuk has used the skill 'Lie Detection.']

[Your words have been proven to be false.]

I felt my face get hot immediately. This damn bastard always had to be thorough with even the slightest of doubts.

"Kim Dokja." The regressor took just a few steps before he was at the side of the bed staring down at me. I got the sense he wanted to grab me by the throat. It was commendable that he refrained from doing so.

I should just tell him about the scenario.

"W-well, actually I.. I'm pent up, okay? I've neve done 'it' before, and so I..." My voice died out as the horror of what I said struck immediately.

[Kim Dok ja is an id iot]

I was inclined to agree with the wall this time. Why the hell had I gone and said that?!

"You..?" The regressor had a guarded look, uncertain on the point I was trying to make.

Throwing all my pride away and mustering up whatever scraps of courage I could find, I took a deep breath and met his gaze.

"Will you have sex with me?"

It was silent for a minute. And then I was assaulted by system messages.

[Constellation 'God of Wine and Ecstasy' is impressed with your boldness.]

[Constellation 'Prisoner of the Golden Headband' is nodding.]

[Constellation 'Abyssal Black Flame Dragon' is closing his eyes in shock.]

[Constellation 'Queen of the Darkest Spring' asks the constellations of the nebula 'Eden' to check on the constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire'.]

.
.
.

[Constellation 'Mass Production Maker' is amused.]

My whole body burned and I turned away from Yoo Joonghyuk's searing gaze.

"Sorry, haha, just forget what I said. It was a stupid joke." I tried to laugh it off as I hid under the blanket. "I'm just tired, goodnight!"

I shoved my face into the pillow and screamed internally.

[Kim Dok ja]

Don't fucking say it.

[...]

"Kim Dokja..?" Yoo Joonghyuk finally spoke, the circuits in his brain reconnecting after the shock. He sounded uncharacteristically calm.. No, he was just confused, right..?

I hugged the pillow and stayed silent, fearing that I would spout more bullshit that would enrage him further.

The bed dipped slightly and I panicked when the blanket was pulled back. I felt way too exposed as I kept my face in the pillow. If I couldn't see him then it was almost like he wasn't there!

"Look at me." The commanding tone was dangerous to go against, but I shook my head anyway.

"Kim Dokja-"

"S-stop," I stuttered into the fabric. "Say something that isn't my name... No, wait, actually don't."

I groaned as I rolled over to breathe, pointedly avoiding the regressor as I stared at the opposite wall. "Just leave."

Yoo Joonghyuk huffed in annoyance.

"So you're going to ask me something absurd and then kick me out?"

I seriously might die.

"Dokja, is it that simple? That you are pent up?"

Yoo Joonghyuk didn't touch me but his words were overwhelming on my skin.

"Why are you asking me for sex?" He questioned, a genuine tone of curiosity that stunned me momentarily. I forgot my embarrassment as I peeked over my shoulder to see the regressor's expression. He wasn't angry?

What the hell was happening?

My voice trembled as I answered. "Because.. you're my companion..?" I buried my face in the pillow again, groaning.

"..I see." It was silent for another few seconds before Yoo Joonghyuk touched my shoulder lightly.

"Why are you hiding, then? You were the one to ask me."

"It's embarrassing," I looked away from him as he rolled me over, trying to hide my face. "I didn't mean to..."

"...Didn't mean to ask?" I bit my lip. "But you did anyway. Why is that?"

[Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' says skinship is good for bonding.]

[Constellation 'Demon King of Salvation' is asking her to shut up.]

I didn't mean to send the indirect message, but the relief of no longer having her weird fantasies crowding my mind was welcomed.

I weighed my options and looked for the best choice. I felt that things had become too awkward to mention the scenario now.

"I'm.. just curious," I glanced at him. He was being abnormally patient, and the neutral look he had wasn't reassuring at all. "I guess I'm more pent up than I thought." My nervous laugh made the air thicken.

Yoo Joonghyuk's eyes swept over my body and I suddenly became aware of just how revealing the robe that the Breaking the Sky Sword Saint had given me was. I folded my arms over my chest and squeezed my legs together, attempting to cover up as much as I could.

"Do you really want to?" I stared dumbly at the regressor's question. No way he was taking me seriously. What was this psychopath planning? Was he going to humiliate me and then leave?

"Kim Dokja," Yoo Joonghyuk placed a heavy hand on my knee, forcing my attention on him. "Yes or no?"

[Say ye s Kim Dok ja]

Right, I couldn't say no. This was all for the scenario in the first place.

Not wanting to thin the regressor's saintly patience in this moment, I nodded hesitantly. Taking a deep breath, I was able to speak more confidently.

"Yes, I would like to try it..." I averted my gaze.

Yoo Joonghyuk placed his hands on my sides, holding my waist as he pulled me up into his lap. I felt like my skin would burn through his clothes.

"I've never done this with a man," he reminded me. Right, he had said to Nirvana before that he wasn't interested in men...

Perhaps I was mistaken, but he seemed rather interested now. What changed?

"Right, uh.." My eyes trailed over the end of the bed and I spotted a bottle laying there. When did..?

[The intelligent Breaking the Sky Sword Saint had properly prepared things as she promised.]

I ignored the wall, leaning against the regressor as I reached for the bottle. My fingertips just barely brushed against it...

"Dokja-" There wasn't any time for the warning.

"Ah?" I yelped when Yoo Joonghyuk fell back onto the mattress, gripping my waist tightly and pulling me down with him. I narrowly avoided smacking into his face, throwing my hands out and catching myself in time. Unfortunately, now the situation was made worse.

Yoo Joonghyuk's dark eyes stared up at me. I faltered above him, tripping over my jumbled thoughts.

He tilted his head back, looking to see what it was I had been reaching for before toppling the both of us. He reached up to grab the bottle, shaking it lightly.

"You planned this, too?" Yoo Joonghyuk seemed impressed. I was impressed he hadn't offed me yet.

"N-no! I really, really didn't!" I pushed myself up harshly, sitting on the regressor's lower half and shoving the breath out of him. Serves him right!

[Yoo Joonghyuk's healthy body was ready for his companion.]

No way, already? And stop with the narration!

[The Fourth Wall stares at you.]

I gulped as I looked down at Yoo Joonghyuk's questioning eyes.

"H-hey, you're.." I flushed heavily at the unmistakable bulge poking me.

"Yes?" Yoo Joonghyuk's expression was neutral. My ears seemed to be playing tricks on me, as I thought I heard his voice shake.

I shut my mouth quickly, biting my lip as he sat up. It was hard to ignore the way I was made to sit in his lap. The regressor shifted slightly as he wrapped his arms around my waist, one hand messing with the edge of the robe.

"Wait," I gasped in embarrassment. "A-are you sure you want to do this..?"

Yoo Joonghyuk gave me a flat look. "You were the one who asked. Are you sure you want to do this?"

This damn scenario was going to be the death of me. If Yoo Joonghyuk wasn't going to kill me first. I bit my tongue and nodded.

I reflexively flinched forward when his rough hand slipped under the robe, touching my bare thigh. Yoo Joonghyuk leaned back slightly and pulled me closer, letting me lean against him as he fondled me slightly, slipping his hand into the waistband of my underwear and pulling it down over the round of my ass. I heard the bottle open and braced myself as his hand disappeared, the bottle snapping shut as he dropped it somewhere behind me.

"Ack!" I cringed at the cold gel that touched me, the regressor pulling my cheeks apart as he rubbed against my unused hole.

The first finger went in with surprising ease, though it felt weird it wasn't uncomfortable enough that I had to stop him. The further he pushed his finger, the stranger it felt, and eventually I couldn't take his silence.

Yoo Joonghyuk slowly pushed in a second finger and I activated the skill I was worried about using in this situation.

[Personal skill 'Omniscient Reader's Viewpoint' Lv. 2 has been activated!]

The regressor's calm thoughts flowed into my mind as he pushed his fingers in me.

「It's softer than I expected it to be.」
「He's so tight... Will this even work?」

I shuddered as he prodded a third digit in. The stretch of his fingers was incredibly foreign to me, and I was uncertain of the discomfort. This really was a bad idea-

"Ah!"

I buried my face in his shoulder at the sudden jolt from him pressing deep, and his hand stilled behind me.

「Ah, was that his prostate?」
「It isn't as far in as I thought...」

"Kim Dokja?" He questioned me, and I nodded sheepishly.

"It's okay, keep going.."

「He doesn't seem to hate it, but he isn't enjoying it either..」
「Ever the complicated man. What can I do to make it better..?」

I gripped the front of Yoo Joonghyuk's robe as he slowly spread his fingers. I groaned at the feeling I'd never experienced before, fully leaning against his body as he stretched me open. My legs were shaking when he finally pulled his fingers out and my hole embarrassingly twitched at the loss.

Yoo Joonghyuk laid me gently on the bed, holding the bottle of lube as he looked down at me.

「He's nervous. Is this really okay?」

"Are you sure?" He asked me again. I nodded shyly and he pulled my underwear fully off. There was no going back now as I instinctively squeezed my thighs together. I watched as Yoo Joonghyuk shoved his training pants down- rather impatiently, might I add??- and I gasped audibly at his size.

Well, he was certainly a protagonist. I don't know what I was expecting, but wasn't this too much either way?

「If he says he's sure, then I'll just have to believe him.」

"Joonghyuk," I swallowed nervously, watching as he poured lube onto his cock before wrapping his hand around it and jerking slowly.

"Hmm?" The regressor hummed as if there was no issue and spread my legs. I watched in horror as he aligned himself.

「It should be enough...」

I really was going to die here.

[Personal skill 'The Fourth Wall' has reduced some of your mental burden.]

Well, at least this guy was being somewhat helpful.

[The Fourth Wall looks at you with displeasure.]

I didn't have time for a rebuttal as Yoo Joonghyuk's tip slowly pressed into me. Despite his fingering, I was still so tight. I tried to relax, but it was difficult with the insistent hardness pushing its way into me

"Joonghyuk!" I gasped when he was fully inside, my thighs squeezing his waist as I clenched around the foreign body.

「Ah, shit.」
「He's so tight that I almost...」

I snapped the connection on my skill, unable to continue listening to Yoo Joonghyuk's thoughts as he prepared to fuck me. It was enough just to have him staring down at me.

"You okay?" His voice was unusually soft as he gently brushed some hair out of my face. I could only stare in confusion as I tried to steady my breathing, the odd feeling of being full made my body twitch slightly.

"It feels weird," I admitted. Yoo Joonghyuk's brow furrowed as he started to pull out, but I stopped him quickly when I felt it.

"Wait, ah!" I shivered as I felt his tip press against my prostate, making my insides feel all tingly. The closest I could compare it to was the feeling whenever I had Electrification activated.

I squirmed against him as it became too much, and the regressor pushed back against me until our hips touched. I groaned with relief from the direct pressure disappearing, squeezing my eyes shut as I swallowed as much air as I could. Yoo Joonghyuk leaned forward, propping himself on the bed as he stayed still. I was grateful that he was letting me get used to it, I was thinking he'd probably just go at it like a beast.

My shaking hands found his wrists and I held on like it was my last hope, catching my breath as I blinked up at him. He looked at me silently, his question as clear to me as if I had my skill active.

"S'okay," I slurred slightly, clearing my throat. "It was a lot at first..."

Yoo Joonghyuk nodded, pushing off the bed and leaning back as his hands found their way to my waist. And then I regretted looking down as the sight made my head spin.

[The Fourth Wall blushes.]

There was a clear bulge to my stomach, the outline of the regressor's length pushing against my skin from the inside. I shakily placed a hand on the bump, pressing down lightly and wincing at the feeling. It was definitely his thing.

"...Kim Dokja?" I looked up to see him staring back at me. Maybe it was the lighting, but didn't his face look a little redder than before?

Well, it was probably just from the exertion, right?

"You're too big," I whimpered, my hand trembling against my belly. Yoo Joonghyuk made a complicated expression as he held my waist, the bulge disappearing as he started to pull out. The slow slide was oddly comforting, and a small hum left my lips without my want.

He stopped moving again, nearly fully pulled out as he searched my face. I wasn't sure what he was looking for, but I managed a smile and it seemed to do the trick.

Yoo Joonghyuk snapped his hips forward, forcing a yelp out of me as he slammed in deep. My vision shook as my neglected cock finally made itself known.

"Hah, Joonghyuk," I gasped as my own cum squirt onto my stomach and chest, my body trembling from the sudden attack of pleasure.

"Dokja.." Did his voice get lower? I didn't have the mind to wonder about it as he pulled out again, pushing back in slower than before. He set a comfortable pace and my brain turned to mush at the onslaught of new feelings.

My fingers scrambled to hold onto something, gripping the pillow under my head tightly as my back instinctively arched off the bed. I found myself rocking my hips with his thrusts, legs wrapping around his waist and pulling him closer.

"Joonghyuk~" I moaned without restraint, losing my mind to the pleasure. All my embarrassment from before went silent, and I was glad. This was amazing.

I never would have expected to lose my virginity to the protagonist of my favorite webnovel, but here I was; a moaning mess below him as he relentlessly pounded into my ass. Was Uriel right about me all this time? I didn't feel like fighting her anymore in this moment.

Yoo Joonghyuk gripped my thighs as he lifted me slightly, finding a new angle that made me scream with pleasure.

[Kim Dokja cried out at his companion's sweet ministrations, tears flowing freely as he basked in their lovemaking.]

"T-there! Ah, yes!" I let out nonsensical moans as the overwhelming electricity coursed through my veins.

[It was more than just orgasmic bliss. It was a promise to stay together.]

"Uhh?" My head throbbed as I was torn between the fast thrusts and whatever the wall was saying.

['If only it could be like this forever' Kim Dokja thought as his partner tipped them over the edge.]

Yoo Joonghyuk leant down against my chest as he gave his last efforts, my body shaking around him as I came again. I subconsciously wrapped my legs around his torso, holding him close as warmth filled my stomach. I gasped for air as his hips slowed to a stop, pressing against me tightly.

"Shit... Sorry, I didn't mean to cum inside," Yoo Joonghyuk huffed as he tried to pull back, stopped by my tense hold on him as I struggled to come back to my senses fully.

"Dokja? Are you okay?" The tone of worry to his voice made me feel a little bad, but all I could do was nod in response. I buried my face in his shoulder as I squeezed him, twitching as the last of the pleasure left my body.

Finally, Yoo Joonghyuk was able to pull away, looking down at me with concern. I watched silently as he pulled out, the bulge disappearing from my belly and leaving me feeling empty.

There was a sticky feeling sliding out and the regressor grimaced alongside my discomfort. I sat up quickly before the embarrassment could come back in full force, stumbling over my words.

"I-I'll go clean up," I muttered, wobbling as I stood. I was just barely able to prevent myself from falling on my ass, taking shaky steps towards the connected bathroom. I ripped off my robe as I stepped into the tub, hissing at the water that I didn't let heat up.

[Kim Dok ja is pre g nat?]

I didn't know. Persephone told me I would know for sure, but other than the uncomfortable stickiness and weird emptiness, I didn't feel any different. I sighed as I washed up my lower half, feeling relieved to clean off the regressor's mess between my legs.

I dried off quickly, putting my robe back on when I realized I left my underwear behind. I took a deep breath to compose myself as I stepped back into the room.

Yoo Joonghyuk was sitting on the bed with his arms crossed, staring at the mattress with a grumpy look until he noticed me.

"I'm okay," I quickly spoke before he could. He simply nodded.

"Then, did you get what you want?"

I felt my face get hot as I looked away to grab my underwear. He had practically thrown them across the room, was he that desperate to put it in me and get it over with?

"I think so," I mumbled as I put them back on, nearly falling over with my legs still feeling unsteady. I hoped a good night's sleep would restore my balance.

There was a rustling of fabric and I looked up to see Yoo Joonghyuk climbing under the covers, pulling the blanket of one side over his body as he grumbled.

"Don't make too much noise." I stared at his obscured form for a moment before nervously approaching the bed and crawling into the side I had previously taken.

It was still relatively light out, and maybe a little too early to retire, but I couldn't help the exhausted sigh that left when I settled onto the mattress. It was really comfortable...

[Kim Dok ja per ga nat?]

I blinked awake at the incorrect message, rolling over with a yawn.

"You slept long."

I sat up quickly at the voice, my head throbbing from the violent movement so soon after waking. I looked up at Yoo joonghyuk holding a plate and cup. I glanced out the window at the rainy scenery.

"How long..?" I mumbled a thanks as I took the plate and half-heartedly chewed on a piece of meat.

[Kim Dok ja has a ba by.]

I pat down my body lightly. My gut felt a little weird still, but I otherwise felt normal..

"Almost twelve hours," Yoo Joonghyuk sat on a chair near the window, picking up his new sword and polishing it. I choked on a dumpling, the regressor giving me an unimpressed look.

"Sorry," I muttered after drinking some water. The last time I remembered sleeping so long was one time I got the flu and was unable to take care of myself...

Damn, that was a miserable time. My mood soured as I poked at the food on my plate.

"Kim Dokja," I looked up at the strong tone. Did he regret last night? Was letting him go to sleep right after a mistake, and now he's pissed? I feared for my throat.

"Are you..." He stared hesitantly. Of course, the man who regressed thousands of times was bad with words.

"A-ah, I'm really sorry!" I waved my hands in hopes of preemptively calming him. "Really. You can forget all about last night, okay? I-I was just curious..."

Yoo Joonghyuk made a bizarre expression.

"That.. Are you okay?"

I froze at his words. Did I really just misread his question? Why was he...

"I just thought," the regressor muttered as he looked away awkwardly. "Since I hadn't done it in a while, maybe I was too rough on you.."

[Kim Dok ja is an idiot.]

Rather than being proud the wall spelled it right, I just felt irrationally angry. I silently chewed on my dumpling to avoid saying anything that might piss off the regressor. Unfortunately, he seemed to misread me as well.

"I'm.. sorry. I shouldn't have done that," Yoo Joonghyuk bowed his head in apology. "Even though you asked.. It was wrong of me to-"

"No! No, it's okay!" I swallowed. This was turning into a big misunderstanding.

"Like you said, I was the one asking for it." I felt my face get hot as I looked away and lowered my voice. "And, it wasn't bad..."

[The Fourth Wall is nodding.]

I cleared my throat and changed the topic.

[Time remaining: 18 days.]

The next day, I figured that just having sex with Yoo Joonghyuk once was not enough. This was bad news for me, as I already pushed all my luck asking once.

Unfortunately, I was left with the extreme now.

[Constellation 'Queen of the Darkest Spring' is curious what you're planning.]

And she wasn't the only one sticking their nose in my business.

"Where are you going?" I turned to the ever grumpy regressor, grinning.

"Flower picking."

He stared at me in disbelief and I elaborated before he could use his skill on me.

"There's a certain type of flower that you can brew into a tea that'll increase your stats," I stepped out the door, continuing down the path knowing I'd be followed.

"Although your teacher wasn't very positive in confirming this to me, it won't hurt to try." I shrugged nonchalantly.

"Should you be so confident? Plants are very commonly poisonous, you know." I gave him a flat look at the way he was implying I might be so stupid.

[Kim Dok ja is.]

Ignoring the wall as usual, I turned off the laid out road to walk into the woods. I looked closely at the ground, making sure to follow the lightly trodden path.

"She told me they aren't poisonous. At the very least, it'll just be a nice tea to drink.. Maybe." I scrunched up my nose slightly, not very fond of loose leaf tea in particular.

"Maybe." Yoo Joonghyuk echoed doubtfully. I just shrugged again and continued along the path, idly swinging the basket I'd been given.

See, here's the thing. I knew going into this that the tea wouldn't be beneficial. At least, for the two of us and maybe Jang Hayoung. Han Myungoh may see improvements from the drink due to his lower levels, but since Yoo Joonghyuk and I had already far surpassed scenario difficulty, it wouldn't do much.

However, there was something I had read about the flowers last night. Something that wasn't written in Ways of Survival.

[Kim Dok ja is...]

I nodded, climbing over a fallen log and turning to the regressor. "We're here."

Beyond the trees was a rocky clearing full of daisies.

"So you're just going to pick them?" He grumbled as I crouched down to get a closer look. I nodded and waved off to another side of the clearing.

"Gather as many as you can, and be careful." He huffed as he walked to a larger patch of flowers, squatting and haphazardly ripping them up. I looked away to hide my smirk.

The catch was that there were two types of flowers here. They were nearly identical, the only differentiating factor being small spines on the stems and slight discoloration of the petals. I examined the flowers before me and was able to tell them apart just by studying them for a moment. Carefully, I started to pluck flowers, avoiding the thorns.

If what I read was right, one of these flowers could improve stats, and the other...

"Here," Yoo Joonghyuk held out a fistful of daisies, looking rather miserable. As he dropped them into my basket, I noticed the small pricks on his hand.

"These should be enough," I stood up after tossing a few more flowers in. The regressor simply nodded and I led him back to the Breaking the Sky Sword school.

[Kim Dokja stifled his smugness as his plan was slowly coming to fruition.]

Yes, you impatient bastard. Things were going my way already.

See, the different flowers that Yoo Joonghyuk so carelessly picked were said to have an aphrodisiacal quality. In particular, there was a concentration of fluid in the stems that was secreted from the thorns as a defense mechanism. However, just a few nicks on the regressor's hand wouldn't be enough to trigger a reaction in him, he made the mistake of mixing the flowers together.

I was going to drug Yoo Joonghyuk with these flowers.

I wasn't proud of this plan, but the stubborn and disagreeable Yoo Joonghyuk left me no other choice.

[Kim Dokja made his unreasonable logic seem sound, disregarding the possibility of explaining the situation to his companion.]

Idiot, it isn't so easy. Like he'd even take me serious, let alone agree to helping me with the scenario.

[Constellation 'God of Wine and Ecstasy' recognizes the flowers you hold.]

[Constellation 'God of Wine and Ecstasy' cackles.]

[500 coins have been sponsored.]

I shook my head at the notifications, pretending to be innocent.

"Well, even if the tea doesn't improve our stats, I have hopes it'll taste good based on how they smell now," I lied smoothly, forcing down a gag at the thought of drinking them.

Yoo Joonghyuk made a noise that sounded like an agreement. At least he seemed to be in a better mood since following me. Of course, I was just trying to appeal to his food-loving side. Perhaps right now he was thinking of other ways the flowers could be used, maybe in something like a Murim salad?

[Your understanding of the character 'Yoo Joonghyuk' has increased.]

[You already have a high understanding of this character.]

Although salads aren't really my thing.

[Constellation 'Prisoner of the Golden Headband' expresses confusion in your plan.]

[Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' admits she's also lost.]

[Constellation 'God of Wine and Ecstasy' says he'll private message them.]

At least Dionysus was being considerate of my plan. It would've been ruined if he just openly talked about the flower differences.

We made it back to the school without incident, and I asked Yoo Joonghyuk to go find the others while I brewed the tea. With him gone, I set to work my plan.

In the cup intended for the regressor, I carefully cut the ends of the spiny flower stems. I pressed it to the side of the mug, squeezing out as much of the juice as I could. After getting a shallow amount from the stems, I tossed a few petals in for good measure and proceeded to brew the rest of the tea.

The drugged cup almost comically had heart shaped steam rise from it, and I felt confident that it would work. With perfect timing, Yoo Joonghyuk walked into the kitchen with Jang Hayoung, Han Myungoh and the Breaking the Sky Sword Master in tow.

"Have the first taste, Joonghyuk," I held out the tampered tea, giving him a smirk. "Since you have such a high standard of flavor, you can be the judge on if we should drink it."

His brow furrowed slightly but he took the mug anyway, taking a quick whiff before bringing it to his lips. I couldn't help but hold my breath as he took a sip, and then a gulp.

"..Sweet," was the anticlimactic answer he gave. Yoo Joonghyuk shrugged and took another sip.

I offered the other drinks to my other companions, even pouring some into a dish for Sajeo to drink. It was a lightly sweetened drink with an earthy taste, akin to green tea with honey added. It wasn't too bad and I was able to drink it all easily.

"I can feel it," Han Myungoh nodded as he sat contently with his mug, taking another steady sip. "This is good stuff."

"I don't feel anything," Jang Hayoung frowned after she chugged her whole drink. I glanced up as Yoo Joonghyuk set his empty cup on the counter behind me. Nothing looked out of the ordinary, though it would take a while to kick in...

For now, I just had to bide my time for a few hours.

I startled when the door slammed open, Yoo Joonghyuk wobbling as he entered the room uneasily. He stared at me with narrowed eyes for a long while before I nervously cleared my throat.

"Joonghyuk-ah?" I set aside the scroll I was reading, standing up to greet him with concern.

[Kim Dok ja is a li ar.]

Of course, I was acting.

I placed a hand on the regressor's arm and was startled at how violently it made him flinch. Suddenly I felt intense dread.

My plan seems to have worked too well.

"Kim Dokja." The annoyed yet husky voice made me tense up slightly, triggering a sense of fight or flight. I forced it down and pressed the back of my hand to his face.

"You're hot.." I murmured, letting the double entendre sit for a moment. "Are you not feeling well?"

"Kim. Dokja." He repeated, probably seething though it was a little hard to tell with the flush of his face.

"What did you do to the tea?"

It was time to put on my best acting skills and lie to the one person I have no success with lying to.

"The tea..? I didn't- oh." I pretended to take a nervous step back, assessing his expression. He looked to be in.. pain? Did I add too much?

"Joonghyuk-ah," I touched his shoulders gently. "By any chance, did you touch any flowers with thorns..?"

He stared blankly at me, blinking slowly.

"All the flowers were the same."

I shook my head at his stubbornness. "No, they weren't. There were some that had a different color as well as thorns."

"And..?"

"And.. I'm sorry," I bowed my head. "I thought you knew already..."

"Knew.. what? Kim Dokja, what the hell?"

I averted my gaze, face warm. This time it wasn't acting.

"Yoo Joonghyuk.. The liquid in the stem of those flowers..."

The regressor groaned, running a hand down his face like he already understood.

"It, well. It is an aphrodisiac."

Yoo Joonghyuk stared at me. "And you just let me touch them?"

I blushed in embarrassment.

"I-I thought you knew! You're the one who has been here before, not me.." It was true, I actually had a small doubt that my plan wouldn't work because he already knew. But after seeing him recklessly plucking them...

Yoo Joonghyuk's face went impressively redder as he rubbed the back of his neck. "Right. I understand."

He sighed heavily as he pulled away from me slightly, crossing his arms and clenching his jaw. A quick glance downwards told me exactly why.

"Uh," I cleared my throat to get his attention. Time to finish the plan. Step one was to pick flowers with Yoo Joonghyuk to determine if he knew about the aphrodisiac or not. Step two was to drug him without his knowledge (I promise to never do this again.. maybe. At the very least, I only felt 'comfortable' enough doing this with Yoo Joonghyuk). Step three was to get railed by him, and step four was to hopefully get pregnant should all previous steps work.

It was a foolproof plan in concept. Now time to test step three.

"It's kind of my fault, so um.. If you need any help..?" I purposely let my gaze drift lower, pretending to shy away from the topic as I looked back up at him in faux uncertainty.

The stretching silence started to make me genuinely nervous, and I was paranoid what would happen if my act fell apart.

[Personal skill 'Omniscient Reader's Viewpoint' Lv. 2 has been activated!]

「 ... 」
「 ... 」

I blinked at the lack of thoughts coming from him, thinking my skill malfunctioned. He seemed to snap out of it when I tilted my head to get a better look at his face, thoughts sluggishly coming in as he glared at me.

「There's no way this guy planned this, right?」
「We already did it once...」
「What the hell is going on? Ah, if only I could use my skill...」

"Kim Dokja," he sounded weary as he regarded me. An unwanted shiver went down my spine at his tone.

He swallowed thickly, eyes drifting down my body before meeting mine again.

"Are you sure? I won't be able to control myself for real this time."

Against my looming sense of danger, I nodded.

"If I hurt you..."

"You won't," I reassured him with confidence. His eyes flickered on my expression, conflicted.

"I promise," I put a hand on his arm, taking a bold step closer. "You won't hurt me."

He still looked worried, so I enforced my status as a constellation, letting my true voice quietly fill the room.

[Even if you do...]

I smiled sweetly as I dropped my status, going back to my regular voice.

"You won't."

Yoo Joonghyuk looked mesmerized by my show of power, his worries being replaced with barely concealed desire. His hands hovered near my body, and I gave him the final assurance he needed.

"You can touch me."

The regressor practically pounced on me before I fully finished speaking. His strong arms wrapped around my waist and lifted me effortlessly, barely giving me time to gasp before he threw me onto the bed. He crawled between my legs, looking up at me with eyes like a predator that found dinner. I swallowed as excitement and fear started to bubble up inside me.

Yoo Joonghyuk ripped my robe off, tossing the tatters of fabric across the room as he stripped me aggressively. Suddenly I understood just what he was getting at and I raised my hands in panic.

"Ah, wait a moment!" I turned around quickly while he was patient, reaching for the bedside drawer and fumbling for the bottle of lube.

Yoo Joonghyuk, unfortunately, did not wait a moment. His short patience snapped immediately and he grabbed my hips just as my hand wrapped around the bottle.

"No- wait! I said wa-aAH!" I gasped as something wet touched my hole, struggling to hold myself up as I looked over my shoulder to see Yoo Joonghyuk's face against my ass.

[The Fourth Wall is excited!]

I blushed madly as the regressor licked at my hole excitedly, overwhelming desire radiating from his entire being as he tried to impatiently loosen me. He managed to get two fingers in just using his saliva, and it seemed to be all he could take as he pulled away and aggressively removed his pants.

I panicked and tossed the bottle of lube behind me, not feeling sorry when it hit him square in the face. He didn't seem bothered either, too far gone to get mad at me lobbing an attack at him while he was weakened. Yoo Joonghyuk uncapped the bottle, hastily squeezing an excessive amount of lube over my ass and his dick.

The sticky gel feeling made me cringe as the regressor took no care to keep the mess to a minimum, smearing the lube across my cheeks as he rubbed against me. The moment his tip lined up with my hole, he shoved in roughly.

I cried out in a mix of pain and shock, my whole body trembling to hold itself up as I was stretched far too soon. I prayed to whatever constellations that could hear my thoughts that I wouldn't get injured from this.

Yoo Joonghyuk's arms wrapped around my waist and he held me up until I got my bearings, letting go to grab my hips and pull me back onto his cock. My head spun from the obscene sounds that came with every thrust.

"Joonghh," I tried looking over my shoulder but couldn't muster the strength. Yoo Joonghyuk heard my voice and leaned forward, lips pressing sloppy kisses on my back. He nuzzled into my neck as his pace quickened, his hips slamming harshly against mine.

"Ahh, th.. there!" I moaned when he hit the right spot, sparking something in his sex haze. He obeyed my words, shifting his position in order to continuously hit the place that made me scream with delight.

My vision went white as I came hard, my limbs trembling so violently that I collapsed forward.

Yoo Joonghyuk, however, wasn't done. He took hold of the more vulnerable position I was in and pounded home. His legs slid under mine as he pinned me to the bed, humping me like a dog in rut. I hugged the pillow as I sobbed from the overwhelming onslaught of pleasure, my hands shaking as I felt a warmth in my stomach.

Even though he came, the regressor continued to thrust into me like his life depended on it. With the aphrodisiac he had, maybe it did. My head was starting to feel fuzzy as things blurred together, the only constant awareness I had being the hard length roughly filling me up.

"Joong.. hyuk," I gasped, voice hoarse. All I got was an animalistic grunt in response, though his actions slowed a little. Perhaps it was starting to wear off.

"Hurts," I whimpered as I squirmed beneath him, trying to keep my legs from going numb. He stilled above me for a second before quickly pulling out and flipping me over, the deep concern shoving its way through the fog. I blinked dazedly at him. He really was a beautiful man.

I mustered the last of my strength to wrap my legs around his waist, encouraging him to embrace me once more. His strong arms slid under me and held me close as he pushed into me once more, rocking his hips gently. I could feel my consciousness starting to slip.

"Do.. what you need," I mumbled against his shoulder as I rubbed his back lightly, my vision darkening as I passed out.

Delicate hands applied a gentle pressure to broad shoulders, sliding down the regressor's back and then falling to the mattress. The room was filled with sickeningly lewd noises; a combination of wet squelches, skin slapping, bed creaking and heavy breaths and grunts.

Yoo Joonghyuk groaned from the intense urge to breed, burying his face in the pillow as he rut into Kim Dokja's limp body. His body ached from the effort required to keep up with his heightened libido, sweat causing his robes to stick to his skin in an uncomfortable way that he was helpless to fix. He stifled a moan as he came for the last time, the drugged haze leaving a pit in his stomach as he pushed himself off the bed with a horrified gasp.

"..Kim Dokja?" Yoo Joonghyuk looked down at his companion, the looming sense of dread making him worry. Kim Dokja seemed to sleep peacefully despite the actions he received while unconscious.

The regressor swallowed thickly as cold guilt rushed through his veins. He pulled out, shamefully watching the thick globs of white following after him.

"I'm sorry," he mumbled, knowing his companion couldn't hear it. Kim Dokja's stomach looked more bloated than it should and the sight made Yoo Joonghyuk feel worse.

He stood shakily, stretching his sore muscles before he picked the constellation up. Carrying him to the bathroom, Yoo Joonghyuk ran the water and gently placed him in the tub. Taking off his own clothes, he climbed in as well, pulling Kim Dokja to his chest and beginning to gently clean him out.

Spreading his fingers lightly, he grimaced as a heavy stream of semen poured from Kim Dokja's hole, mixing in the water and clouding it up. He carefully curled his fingers, every drop of cum that he found making him more and more miserable.

"I'm so sorry," he whispered, Kim Dokja's lax body twitching when he lost Yoo Joonghyuk's touch. He felt awful for changing his body like this, already preparing for the consequences of his unforgivable actions.

Rough hands slid over smooth skin as the regressor massaged his companion's waist and hips, tracing over the bruised handprints he left behind and wincing. He wondered if the strength the constellation showed earlier was just a bluff, agonizing over how carried away he got.

I shivered as I woke up with a violent nausea, head spinning as I trembled standing up. I felt horribly exhausted and nearly collapsed, but the ache in my stomach carried me quickly to the bathroom.

"..Kim Dokja?" I couldn't respond to Yoo Joonghyuk's confused tone as I left him behind, shoving the door open and collapsing in front of the toilet.

Bile burned my throat and I painfully coughed up nothing but stomach acid.

[Kim Dokja is preg a nant?]

[Constellation 'Queen of the Darkest Spring' smiles sympathetically at you.]

I suddenly understood what Persephone meant, that it would be obvious when it worked.

"..I'm sorry, I..." I looked over my shoulder to see Yoo Joonghyuk standing behind me in the doorway. Guilt, shame and all sorts of self-punishing feelings clouded his features as he stared at me.

"It's oka.." My voice shook and I had to look away as another unpleasant wave crashed through my body.

As I gagged over the toilet bowl, Yoo Joonghyuk carefully approached and rubbed my back lightly before reaching down and holding my wrists gently, pressing down with his thumbs and relieving the sickening feel from my chest. I gasped in a breath, swallowing down the remaining burning sensation and moving back.

My tired body finally gave out on me as I fell backwards, hitting Yoo Joonghyuk's sturdy chest. My head was pounding from overexertion and I felt like passing out, holding on in a stubborn daze. The regressor grounded me when he pressed a damp cloth to my face, wiping the sweat that had gathered and cooling me down.

I sighed as I relaxed against him, taking the towel to rub it against my heated skin as he slipped his arms under me, easily carrying my near-limp body back to bed.

[Kim Dok ja has a baby!]

I nodded to the wall, silently praising the progress it had with spelling. I sprawled against the pillows as Yoo Joonghyuk disappeared, returning soon after with a glass of water. I gratefully accepted it and took small, steady sips to cool the rest of the acid that lingered in my throat.

"Are you okay? Is there anything else I can do..?" Yoo Joonghyuk looked me up and down uncertainly, face scrunched slightly with worry. I considered just kicking him out, siding with pettiness and punishing him for being so rough with me, but my aching body protested being alone. Instead, I set the glass aside and licked my lips as I laid back.

"Could you.. rub my legs?" I chewed on my bottom lip as I waited nervously for his reaction.

Yoo Joonghyuk seemed to be in an agreeable mood, likely due to guilt, and nodded simply as he sat on the edge of the bed. He grabbed my ankles, applying gentle pressure as he slowly worked his way upwards. I closed my eyes at the pleasant feeling, nodding off as the regressor squeezed my thighs lightly.

He was beginning to work his way back down when I was hit with a wave of vertigo, sitting up immediately as I felt a burning in my chest again. Yoo Joonghyuk startled and moved away quickly, scrambling for a moment before he was pressing a wide dish into my arms.

I didn't have time to thank him as I spit up whatever liquids my body had left. The heated emptiness in my gut and scratchy feeling in my throat frustrated me and I couldn't help but sob pitifully as I struggled with my body's demand to eject the contents that my stomach didn't have.

"Kim Dokja?" Yoo Joonghyuk's soft concern was soothing to my agony. I spat out whatever words I could manage as I dry heaved, no longer able to get anything up.

"You just had to get me pregnant," my pained grumble sounded absurd even to me who already knew the words to be unfortunately true.

"..Is now really the time for strange jokes?" The regressor muttered, shaking his head as he took the dish from me. I collapsed back and yanked the blanket up, folding it over my stomach and sighing at the comforting warmth. My gut settled enough to let me give in to my exhaustion once more.

I woke with a sense of unease, assessing my body. I marveled in the lack of nausea plaguing me, sighing with relief.

I turned my head and glanced around the room, careful not to disturb my equilibrium too much while I still had it. Yoo Joonghyuk was sitting in the same chair he had before, holding the scroll I had been reading. He seemed to be slowly going through it as it lightly stormed outside, the rustling of the paper mixing with the rain hitting the windows and harmonizing in a gentle way.

My dry throat urged me to drink, so I sat up with a groan. My body felt worse after my nap, causing me to silently curse out Persephone.

[Constellation 'Queen of the Darkest Spring' watches you.]

Yeah, you. Damn this scenario.

Yoo Joonghyuk took immediate notice to my movements, dropping the scroll aside as he moved swiftly towards me.

"Are you alright?" He murmured softly, handing me the water glass he left on the table.

"A little hungry, but I feel better now," I managed a smile to ease his worries. His shoulders sagged noticeably as he nodded.

"I'll cook you something," he quickly left the room and I couldn't help but feel like I was getting special treatment.

...He really felt bad, didn't he? I should probably be honest with him. For now, I was going to bask in the pampering.

After hydrating myself, I stood carefully and stretched lightly. I shivered when I realized that I was still naked, glancing around and catching sight of my clothes folded on a dresser. I thought about the uneasiness still lingering in my gut and opted instead to look in the closet, pulling out a spare robe and tossing it on.

I haphazardly tied the oversized clothing shut as I shuffled out of the room to find the regressor, stumbling slightly on the step down into the kitchen as I spotted him. Then I looked at the counter.

"Ugh," he looked up at my disgusted tone as I scrunched my nose. "Tomatoes? Are you trying to make me puke more?"

Yoo Joonghyuk's eyes widened in bewilderment as he looked between the red vegetables and me. He picked up the basket of tomatoes and shoved them in a cabinet, shutting the door to block them from my view. I couldn't help snorting out of amusement at his frantic action.

"What are you making?" I asked as I wandered over to the window, struggling with the latch.

"Nothing fancy, just porridge." He muttered, and I rolled my eyes while he couldn't see. Knowing him, it would be a five star dish that would make the words 'just porridge' cry in shame. I cheered to myself when I managed to open the window, relaxing as the cool breeze tickled my warm face, bringing the fresh smell of the rain with it.

I shook slightly as my balance waned, sitting heavily in the chair that was thankfully beside me. I leaned against the wall, resting my head on the window sill as I breathed in the fresh air, already starting to doze off again. I was brought back to by a gentle touch on my shoulder.

"Kim Dokja," the rare, soft tone felt like a blessing. I smiled as he set a bowl in front of me.

[Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' is moved by your bond.]

[500 coins have been sponsored.]

[A constellation who likes domestic romance is wiping their tears.]

[A constellation who values marriage is nodding in approval.]

[700 coins have been sponsored.]

I felt my face get warm from the system messages as I blew on a spoonful of porridge, sighing happily at the comforting warmth of a homecooked meal.

I looked up after a few bites to see the regressor watching me. I felt my face get hot as I lowered my spoon, clearing my throat.

"I'm okay, alright? You can relax," I stirred the porridge idly as I looked away. Yoo Joonghyuk made a noise of acknowledgement as he moved away, putting together a bowl for himself. My hand shook when he sat across from me to eat.

[Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' is clasping her hands together.]

[500 coins have been sponsored.]

[Many constellations are moved by your companionship.]

[1,000 coins have been sponsored.]

The attention started to become too much for me and I felt my stomach churn. Yoo Joonghyuk startled when my spoon clattered against the side of the bowl as I pushed away from the table quickly.

"Do you feel sick again?" He looked at me uneasily, setting his own food aside. I shrugged slightly as I leaned back in my chair, taking steady breaths as I fought off the nausea. The regressor left the room briefly, returning with the dish he had previously given me. I chewed my lip as I looked at the bowl on the table, leaning against the window sill once more. The cold air ruffled my hair and helped me to relax, and I was able to swallow the urge to puke.

"Here," he murmured, holding out a glass of water. I accepted it gratefully, taking careful sips. I sighed in relief as my gut settled completely.

[Constellation 'Queen of the Darkest Spring' commends your willpower.]

I shook my head at the notification, frowning.

On the second day of my pregnancy, my nausea was replaced by hunger.

I woke up before the sun rose with my stomach and head both begging me to eat something, a warm weight clinging by me. Groaning as I sat up and rubbed my back, I shoved Yoo Joonghyuk over to his side of the bed and stood up. The regressor continued to sleep soundly, now with his face in his own pillow.

After a quick stretch I set off for the kitchen. Turning the light on, I realized I didn't know what there even was as I looked around. I opened the nearest cabinet, frowning when it was just ingredients. Nudging aside a bag of flour and spices, I eventually just closed the door and opened the next.

"Ugh, I forgot about those." I turned up my nose at the basket of tomatoes that Yoo Joonghyuk had shoved into the dishes cupboard. I shut the door and looked around once more, spotting a bowl of fruits and vegetables on the dining table. I grabbed a knife and moved over, picking up what looked like a ripe mango. I sat at the table and dug into the fruit, which strangely tasted like apple.

I curiously picked up what looked like a cucumber, cutting it in half to be surprised by the pink interior it had. I took a hesitant taste and was delighted by a sweet flavor with a light tanginess.

After enjoying a few more of First Murim's produce, I looked up as Yoo Joonghyuk walked into the kitchen. The worried expression he had smoothed over into a soft smile when he saw me eating. He looked away as he moved about, grabbing various ingredients and dishes.

"Are you still hungry? I can make something more filling," he asked gently as he started mixing stuff in a bowl. I hummed and stood up to wash my hands before curiously hovering by the regressor's shoulder. He made a light batter, turning on the stove as he went and grabbed some fruit from the table. I was excited when he grabbed some more of the cucumber looking things.

I ended up pulling aside a chair, sitting and watching him move expertly through the kitchen. He looked at peace as he cooked breakfast, fully in his element. A few minutes later, he turned to me and held out a plate. It looked like some kind of pancake, folded delicately with the fruit and some sort of sauce.

"Crepes," he said when I looked up questioningly. I nodded as I dug into the lightly sweet and filling meal. It was so delicious I almost cried.

[Constellation 'Prisoner of the Golden Headband' chews on his staff.]

[Constellation 'God of Wine and Ecstasy' is jealous.]

[A constellation who likes fruit is drooling.]

I couldn't help the smile I gave at the system notifications, feeling smug that the constellations were envious of my position as Yoo Joonghyuk's companion. I looked up at a strange noise, seeing said man covering his mouth as he turned away from me. I wondered if I grossed him out from devouring the food so eagerly.

After eating breakfast, I was content to just laze around. Yoo Joonghyuk seemed to be fine with my decision, making sure I had everything I needed before he left to do his own things. He even prepared a meal for me to have if I got hungry again.

And hungry I did get. I dozed off for a few hours before I woke up to the sun shining in my face. I yawned as I got up, wandering out to eat what was left for me. Even though it was delicious, as expected of Yoo Joonghyuk's level 10 cooking skill, it did little to satiate me. I decided instead to leave the cabin for the first time in.. Well, I wasn't entirely sure how long it had been. I checked my scenario window.

[Time remaining: 16 days.]

Two or three days seem to have passed, I couldn't quite tell as some of my memory was foggy...

["Do.. what you need," the trembling voice softly whispered, gentle hands sliding over tense muscles and encouraging the man to bury himself in the welcoming heat.]

I nearly walked into the doorframe on my way out as the Fourth Wall 'helpfully' reminded me of what happened for my days to blur together. I tried to shake off the embarrassment as I walked into the Breaking the Sky Sword Saint's cabin.

Han Myungoh looked up when I entered, a strange expression on his face before he greeted me.

"Hello, Dokja-ssi. I heard you were feeling unwell?" I guess Yoo Joonghyuk had to say something at my absence.

"I'm feeling much better now," I bowed my head to him. "Sorry if I worried you, I wasn't expecting to be out so long."

He laughed heartily as he waved his hand. "No need to apologize! I'm glad you're well again," his smile held an edge of knowing that made me feel a little uneasy.

"Kim Dokja! You're okay!" Jang Hayoung appeared suddenly, staring up at me with wide eyes. I pat her head in reassurance. Her face contorted into a strange emotion as she looked over me, face going red as she disappeared with no explanation.

"What..?" I looked in confusion at the department head, who smiled back in a teasing way.

"That may be because you look like a newlywed wife," he chuckled as he pat my shoulder, leaving the building. I looked down at the robe I was wearing and realized it left little to the imagination. I tied it tighter as I sat down shyly, picking up some dumplings that were left out.

The Breaking the Sky Sword Master entered the room sniffing the air. I held a dumpling out to her when she approached, tilting my head in confusion when she nosed past it to smell me.

Woof woof?

「You have a child in you?」

I felt my face go red as Sajeo took the dumpling from me, sitting to eat. I cleared my throat lightly.

"What makes you think that?" She looked up at me with an unimpressed air.

Woof.

「You smell pregnant.」

"Ah, dogs can smell that kind of thing..?" I squished a dumpling in my hands for a moment. "Nobody else knows, though."

[Constellation 'Queen of the Darkest Spring' looks at you.]

"..Okay, she knows too." Sajeo barked in a way that sounded like a laugh.

Woof, woof!

「Don't worry, I won't tell. Congratulations, though!」

I chewed on my dumpling as I thought for a moment. I wasn't too keen to share this information, but I thought it might be good to tell Han Myungoh since he was also a man with pregnancy experience. However, it wasn't reasonable to keep it from Yoo Joonghyuk for so long...

Woof?

「Are you scared?」

I shook my head. "Not quite, just... I don't know how to tell him," I shrugged.

Woof? Woof woof.

「Yoo Joonghyuk? I'm sure he would be understanding.」

"Possibly, however..." I bit my lip.

Woof woof, woof.

「Don't stress it too much, you can trust your companion.」

Sajeo sounded so confident that it put me at ease. I smiled kindly to her.

"Thank you, I feel a little better having talked about it."

Woof!

[Several constellations wonder what you talked about.]

Ignoring them, I bid Sajeo farewell and grabbed one more dumpling as I went back to the cabin I shared with Yoo Joonghyuk, who had returned before me and started cooking again. I felt nervous again to talk to him, and instead decided to sleep on it.

On the third day of my pregnancy, I woke up feeling normal. It was unsettling and I spent the entire day on edge.

And then nighttime came, and I suddenly felt egregiously horny as I watched Yoo Joonghyuk cook dinner. Every small movement was turning me on, whether it was chopping vegetables or tossing things in the pan it didn't matter. I wasn't near the stove but I felt like I was sweating buckets as I swallowed nervously at the sight of the muscles in his strong arms flexing with every action.

[Strong arms that held him down to give overwhelming pleasure in a selfish attempt for relief.]

I felt myself get hotter at the Fourth Wall's interpretation, thankful that I was seated at the table where Yoo Joonghyuk wouldn't see my erection. It was difficult to ignore and bordered on painful when the regressor finally served dinner, setting a plate of a heavenly smelling meal that I would've immediately dug into had I not been suppressing the heavy urge to have him instead.

We finished eating at the same time, and I got up when he had turned around with the dishes. I tried to not be obvious as I hurried into the bathroom. Sighing, I turned the shower on and dropped my robe, stepping in.

The warm water beat against the floor as I leaned against the opposite wall, my breath catching as I wrapped a hand around my painful erection. Even such a light touch was relieving as I closed my eyes and started to jerk myself off.

Leaking precum all over my hand with every thrust, a frustrated noise left my lips as I couldn't satisfy myself. I turned around to hold myself up on the wall, reaching behind me and just barely being able to brush against my rim. The muscles in my side cramped up from the awkward angle as I attempted to finger myself, and I ultimately gave up.

I could almost hear the constellations laughing at my plight. Sighing in defeat, I turned the shower all the way to cold, the freezing water that drenched me causing my erection to go down. I aggressively rubbed a towel over my head, cursing out Persephone just to feel better.

[Constellation 'Queen of the Darkest Spring' looks at you with pity.]

Putting my robe back on and taking little care to hide my modesty, I walked back to the kitchen right as Yoo Joonghyuk came through the door. He held up a basket of the cucumber-looking fruits, telling me about some dessert he would make. I was only half listening as I opened the cabinet to grab a cup.

The pitiful grief from my failure to masturbate was increased when I couldn't reach a cup, even standing up on the tips of my toes and stretching up so far my shoulder felt strained. Curse the giants! Breaking the Sky Sword Saint, you suck!

[The Fourth Wall is using Lie Detection on your statement.]

Of course, I didn't really mean that. But I was mad!

"Kim Dokja," Yoo Joonghyuk spoke as he moved closer. I thought he was trying to piss me off more, but all my thoughts stopped when his body was close enough for me to feel the heat emanating from it. He grabbed the cup I had been reaching for, leaning in closer and whispering in my ear. "What are you doing?"

Warmth flooded my body as my blood rushed down, all attempts to quell my overwhelming desire made futile in an instant.

Still, I tried to play it cool and spoke as innocently as I could manage when I had such a raging hardon nearly pressing against the counter. "What do you mean?"

"I mean this," the regressor rumbled, a hand grabbing my thigh as he swiped a thumb over my bare skin.

Seducing Yoo Joonghyuk by wearing nothing but the robe was not my plan, but if he was turned on by getting a peek of my ass due to my height struggle... Well, I couldn't really complain!

I pressed my hips back, looking over my shoulder at him. His expression was neutral, but I could definitely see a slight wavering in the way his brows twitched.

"Mean what?" I tempted him, pretending that I didn't know exactly what he was talking about. His eyes narrowed as he searched my face, inhaling sharply and moving away when he seemingly couldn't find what he was looking for.

"..Nothing." He looked away and I turned around to grab his hand before he could run off.

"Joonghyuk-ah," I was surprised at how soft my voice could get. His eyes snapped back to my face, likely just as surprised.

It was silent for a moment as we looked at each other. I got the feeling he wasn't looking for anything in my expression, instead just making note of my facial features. It made me a little self-conscious, being analyzed by such a handsome man.

Before I could say anything, Yoo Joonghyuk put himself in my personal space again. He put the glass on the counter behind me, practically pinning me to it as he gazed down.

"Kim Dokja," his voice was also surprisingly soft. There was a weird feeling in my chest that made me wonder if I showered too soon after eating.

Yoo Joonghyuk pressed a finger to my lips before moving the position of his hand, angling it to hold the side of my face as he brushed his thumb over my lower lip. The slow movement was almost ticklish and I couldn't help the smile that came up.

I gazed into the regressor's dark eyes, pleased to see a hint of arousal hiding in those inky pools. Daringly, I opened my mouth slightly to grab his thumb with my teeth. He raised a brow, the corner of his lips twitching as he held back a smirk.

"I suppose my companion would like my company," he murmured in a teasing way that felt out of character. But I decided to ignore that as I grasped the line he held out for me.

"Then, won't you please your companion?" I felt breathless as I tried to tease him back.

Without further words, Yoo Joonghyuk leaned in and I felt my heartrate increase as I thought he was going to kiss me right then. Instead, he simply whispered in my ear.

"But of course, after all.." He held my waist as he lifted me, my legs instinctively wrapping around his torso.

"Skinship is good for bonding."

[Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' is flabbergasted at her words being used.]

[Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' approves of this bond.]

Way to ruin the mood?

Yoo Joonghyuk chuckled as he carried me to the bedroom.

[The Fourth Wall shakes excitedly!]

Or not. The mood was perfectly in tact! Bless this regressor's libido!

He sat on the bed, holding me in his lap as he hesitated. I pressed a finger to his lips, shushing him before he could start to worry.

"Just get it on with, I'm very needy right now." I confessed, grinding my hips for emphasis. I rested my head on his shoulder as he grabbed the lube.

"And, for the record," I murmured by his ear. "I didn't push you off before because I trusted you wouldn't hurt me."

His hands stilled at my sides, and I could tell he was shaken by my words.

"It was tiresome, of course. But you didn't hurt me. Energy can be easily replenished." I rubbed at his back, satisfied when his muscles relaxed. A cheeky grin spread across my face and I nuzzled his neck. "And you've kept me fed for that."

Yoo Joonghyuk laughed. It was such a sweet sound, and I felt really comfortable in his hands. I sighed blissfully as he pressed a lubed finger into me immediately, thankfully not having to work too hard to get a second one in.

The regressor took his time, pressing the two digits in as he spread them. He felt around my insides as he stretched me open, taking care rub over every spot before pressing in a third. My head started to feel fuzzy from the slowly mounting pleasure, and I decided to help the regressor to get ready.

"Dokja?" He sounded startled as I undid his pants and pulled out his length. I could feel him grow fully hard as I ran my hands over him.

"What? It's only fair," I muttered as I sloppily jerked him off. I could feel his fingers twitch inside me, curling as I squeezed his tip. He shakily spread his fingers a few more times before letting out a heavy breath.

"Is this enough?" He whispered, massaging my ass with his free hand. I nodded and sat up straighter as he pulled out his fingers, grabbing his cock and lining it up.

"Wait-" I didn't wait for him, pleased to feel myself stretch even further as I slowly slid down.

"I'm not waiting," I huffed, holding his shoulders as I shakily raised my hips, relishing the tight slide of my insides not wanting to let go of him. His hands gripped my thighs so hard I wondered if he might bruise me again.

I shifted slightly, pressing gently on the regressor's shoulders. He let himself be pushed onto the bed, granting me better balance and an angle that let me moan loudly. I placed my hands on his sturdy chest as I bounced at an uneven pace, fully enjoying myself.

Never had I ever thought I'd like to have anal sex. There certainly was a first for everything, and I was incredibly happy to have Yoo fucking Joonghyuk to be that first.

"Shit," said man groaned, helping to hold me up with his hands on my hips. I opened my eyes that had closed from bliss, looking down at him and panting. My goodness, he looked absolutely breathtaking. His wavy black hair was splayed on the sheets below him, his hot gaze locked on me as he let me do as I pleased.

His grip on me tightened and he pulled me back down roughly, our voices mixing as the action made the both of us moan loud.

"Oh," Yoo Joonghyuk gasped as he stared at me with wide eyes. He seemed to have some sort of epiphany that I wasn't privy to. He bounced me roughly on his cock, making me squeal as he hit deep.

"Joonghy-ah," I moaned, barely able to keep my eyes open. "You're so.. ah!"

There was a curious edge to his expression as he wondered what I wanted to say.

[The handsome protagonist who had lived countless lives displayed an incredible understanding of love.]

...It wasn't going to be that cheesy!

I froze at the last word, Yoo Joonghyuk giving me a bewildered look as I suddenly stopped moving completely.

[Kim Dok ja is an idiot.]

Intense heat filled my face as that one word repeated in my head.

Love.

There was no way... right?

"Kim Dokja?" I was forced out of my thoughts as the regressor looked at me, a tinge of worry in his voice.

"A-ah, sorry," I laughed shakily. "My legs are getting a little tired, actually.."

Yoo Joonghyuk nodded, holding my waist and easily flipping our positions. Shocked by the quick movements, I had to blink a few times as I gripped his shoulders.

"Hey.." He hummed in response as he stuffed a pillow under my hips.

"Give me a warning next time!" I gasped, hitting his shoulder lightly. "Gosh, I wasn't expecting that..."

Yoo Joonghyuk chuckled, sensing no actual discomfort from me. I realized the words 'next time' seemed to linger in the air...

"Ah!" I threw my head back as he picked up the pace again, grateful for not having to make sense of those thoughts.

Chapter Text

On the fourth day of my pregnancy, I finally felt the physical effects of it.

Though it was hard to tell if my hips hurt because of the previous night, my back ached far too much to have been from simple overexertion. Alongside that, my gut was starting to feel upset again and my chest was sore- something I found odd, considering I didn't have any breast tissue...

I assessed myself in the bathroom mirror that morning and noted that my stomach was starting to become very obviously full. Whereas the past few days I may have only looked bloated, perhaps as if I had eaten a heavy meal, it looked a little too big to just be food bloat. Putting on a robe, which I had grown quite accustomed to now, I tied it shut and let the fabric obscure my belly. I looked perfectly normal and let out a sigh.

After my talk with the Breaking the Sky Sword Master, Sajeo, I was determined to tell Yoo Joonghyuk the truth. Part of me still had a nagging worry about how he'd react, but at this point I was expecting it to be there when it came to talking with this damned protagonist. Unfortunately, determination wasn't enough and I continued to avoid telling him.

Even more unfortunate... I was still sexually frustrated.

Perhaps thirteen years of being involuntarily celibate (as unfortunate as this wording was in the context of the internet, I hated to admit it describe me well. At least I don't have issues with women, though) couldn't be satisfied in just a few nights. Either way, I spent most of the day sulking in bed as the one person I wanted was instead training diligently. Of course Yoo Joonghyuk, the Supreme king, protagonist incarnate who regressed countless (to anyone who isn't me, that is) times, was more interested in swinging a sword than sleeping with his companion.

Part of me knew I was being irrational- nay, unreasonable- in my anger, but that didn't make me any less upset. The only salvation to me was the fact the Wall stayed silent.

[Ba by.]

Of course, that was only because the Fourth Wall was preoccupied with cooing over the 'baby' that was inside me.

[Baby..]

It wasn't really a child, I knew that, but the scenario had started messing with my head. I placed a hand gently on the little bump of my belly, petting over the smooth skin. If I focused on my stomach, I could feel faint amounts of magic power emanating from the egg. It made me nostalgic for when Biyoo had yet to hatch, although that wasn't too long ago.

Nevertheless, I was needy for the man who helped put me in this situation.

Even if he didn't know yet...

But that was a conversation for later. For now, I needed to make a plan. After my successful, albeit unintentional, seducing of Yoo Joonghyuk last night, I was now incredibly confident in my abilities to bother him. Whether he liked it or not, the regressor was now aware of my body and the pleasure it could bring him. I just had to figure out how to use that to my advantage.

"Perhaps," I mumbled to myself as I stood up and removed my underwear, tossing them to wherever. It was a little uncomfortable to be that breezy down there, but I was already rather used to it after the disaster of the fourth scenario. I grabbed my scroll and settled onto the bed, getting comfortable before trying to find a more provocative pose.

[Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' wishes you luck.]

[A low-grade skill has been gifted.]

What's this? My lips curved into a smile at the skill Uriel gave me.

[Picture Perfect.]

It wasn't that impressive of a skill, hardly useful even for someone who might be best fit for it, like Min Jiwon. But in this moment, the skill was a godsend- or, well, an angelsend? Whatever. I activated the skill and was mesmerized by the tiny sparks of probability that adjusted my clothes. My body moved on its own just a little bit, and when the skill finished its work, I was left in an incredibly attractive position.

With my legs up to support my scroll, they were also slightly parted. The robe draped in just the right way to cover me while leaving enough exposed for the imagination to pick up on. Namely, my thighs were shown off in a way that made it obvious I wasn't wearing anything under the robe.

I suppressed my smile as I heard movement from the other room, pretending to be into my reading. Sure enough, the long awaited protagonist entered the bedroom.

Whatever he was going to say died on his lips when he saw me. I continued to 'read' the scroll, making it seem like I was too absorbed to notice him. Taking advantage of that, Yoo Joonghyuk's eyes shamelessly slid over my body. It was such an intense gaze that I couldn't do anything to stop the shiver that went down my spine, looking up at the regressor who tried to act like he wasn't just eye-fucking me while I wasn't looking.

"Welcome back," my voice shook more than I hoped it would. I felt my face get hot, betraying my attempts at being alluring.

However, Yoo Joonghyuk was thankfully still drawn in. He took one big step forward, kneeling on the bed to be level with me. I held his gaze, hoping to get my invitation across to him.

"Kim Dokja." The deep rumble of his voice shot excitement through my veins, the scroll falling out of my lap as I lunged for him, pouncing into his arms and nuzzling his neck. It was such a new feeling for me, being this physically needy and clinging to someone. But I didn't hate it.

Without stalling any further, the regressor moved onto the bed, holding me in his lap as he placed heavy kisses on my exposed collarbone. I shivered in anticipation, running my hands along his shoulders as he slipped his hands under my robe. He groped at my thighs, gently massaging his way towards my hole.

I sighed happily and held onto him as he pressed one finger in, testing me. He shuffled us awkwardly up the bed in order to reach the bottle of lube left on the table. He removed his hands for a moment before they returned, the cool gel-like substance causing me to flinch slightly as two digits prod against my entrance.

While it was nice to be stretched, getting a little taste of the satisfying fullness that awaited, I started to get impatient as the regressor took his sweet time in sliding his fingers in.

"Joonghyuk-ah," I huffed. "You don't have to be so slow."

Yoo Joonghyuk took my words as some kind of challenge as he pulled his fingers nearly all the way out, before slamming them back in. Even when I jolted forward and moaned out, pressing up against him, he continued to harshly shove into me. Wet splattered with every thrust, and when he curled his fingers in just the right way I started to rock back onto his hand.

"Hah, I'm- aah!" My fists clenched at the fabric of his training robes from the pleasure. I was left blinking in confusion when the fingers disappeared completely, leaving me on the edge of climaxing. This bastard...

"Not yet," the regressor's annoyingly calm voice whispered by my ear, causing me to pout as he laid me gently on the bed. I shamelessly spread my legs, nudging his sides with my feet as I presented myself to him.

Yoo Joonghyuk looked over my body as he pulled off his training robe, giving me the equal opportunity to eye him. I subconsciously licked my lips as I traced over his pronounced muscles, following his movements as he pulled his training pants down, cock springing free. I swallowed nervously as he grasped his impressive length- no matter how much I see it, it looks bigger each time.

I felt my hole twitch in anticipation as the regressor spread the remaining lube on his hand over his erection, shuffling my hips closer out of impatience. He raised a brow at my efforts, taking pity as he scooped me up and placed me on his dick.

"Ahh, finally!" I squealed as he immediately buried himself in my heat and I squeezed him tightly. I expected him to start moving, but he gave me a puzzled look as he held my waist.

"..Did you gain weight?" I was caught off-guard by his question, stumbling over vowels and internally panicking that I'd been found out before I could properly talk to him. But before I could manage to say any actual words, Yoo Joonghyuk shook his head and spoke for me.

"No, sorry. It's none of my business." His hands felt up my sides before sliding back down to raise my hips, the soft look he gave me making me feel confused. The opportunity for me to explain the scenario passed with the regressor's gentle pull out before snapping back in. I reached up for him, wrapping my arms around his neck as he lifted me. I sighed as I rest my head on his shoulder, lazy thrusts bouncing me gently in his lap.

"Dokja," Yoo Joonghyuk breathed into my neck, pressing sloppy kisses to my skin.

[Personal skill 'Omniscient Reader's Viewpoint' lv. 2 has been activated.]

The thoughts of the protagonist that he didn't bother to verbalize flowed softly into my mind.

「Feels good..」
「He also seems to be enjoying it.」

I smiled as I nuzzled him, agreeing with his thought. His movements stuttered for a moment as he inhaled, kissing my shoulder as he lowered me carefully.

「Ah, too good..」
「Would he be mad if I came inside..?」

"Joonghyuk," I looked up at him breathlessly, his arms trapping me- not like I wanted to escape, anyway.

「I shouldn't.」

Wrapping my legs around his waist as I felt his pace slow, I met his heated gaze with one of my own. "You can."

「I can?」
「I'll bathe him later..」

I pulled him down to whisper in his ear, echoing his thoughts back to him. "Only if you clean me out after."

Yoo Joonghyuk tucked his chin into my shoulder as he nodded, shifting to get the perfect angle to end with. I couldn't help the smile on my face as I drowned in ecstasy.

Day five, I woke up surrounded by warmth. Yoo Joonghyuk held me close as he snored softly, making me smile and nuzzle into his chest. I shifted slightly and felt a stickiness oozing out of me. It seems we went at it until we fell asleep, if the regressor's soft length resting on my thigh was anything to go off of.

I trailed my hand over his side, admiring his muscles until I felt discomfort settling in my stomach. Sighing that my pleasant moment didn't last long, I tapped on his arm to wake him up.

"Joonghyuk-ah," I shook him gently, getting a grumble in response, the hand on my hip trying to pull me even closer.

"Wake up, Joonghyuk-ah," I smacked his shoulder, huffing. "I'm gonna get a tummyache."

I pouted as he continued to snooze, the protagonist's hand sliding off my hip to rub my lower back. His fingers brushed over my butt, causing him to grimace when he felt the mess he made. Getting up, Yoo Joonghyuk yawned as he stretched, turning back and leaning over the bed to pick me up.

As he slid his arms underneath my body, the half awake regressor pressed a kiss to my forehead as if it were natural. I froze, speechless as the oblivious man continued to bring me to the bathroom.

"Dokja?" Yoo Joonghyuk was startled when he lowered me into the bath. I blinked up at him and realized my face was wet, eyes stinging slightly.

[The affections of his companion were difficult for Kim Dokja's heart to handle, having been closed off to others for so long.]

I felt my face get warm as I turned away from him, scrubbing the tears away and mentally glaring at the Fourth Wall.

[The Fourth Wall looks at you.]

Sniffling, I flinched when cold water started filling the tub. Yoo Joonghyuk brushed his fingers through my hair once as he climbed in behind me.

"Are you alright?" He asked oh so softly, a soothing hand rubbing over my thighs as he seated himself. His tone of voice made me cry more, which was frustrating to me. I'm not sad! So why..?

Unfortunately, getting mad at my body made the tears pour out more as I uncontrollably sobbed in front of the regressor. I could feel him start to panic in the way he immediately took his hands off of me, frantically turning me enough so he could get a look at my face. I squeezed my eyes shut; to avoid looking at him or to try and stop the tears, I wasn't sure which. I slumped against him pathetically, nothing quelling the urge to cry.

Yoo Joonghyuk just held me silently, hugging me close as he rest his chin on my head. I cried until the tub had filled up, the warm water soothing on my skin as I hiccupped while the protagonist leaned over to turn the water off. He didn't say anything as he put a hand in the water, rubbing at the inside of my thigh.

"hic, 'm okay," I rubbed at my face, wiping off the snot and tears. I really was pathetic...

[Kim Dok ja's baby is..]

I blinked at the words the wall spoke, looking down at my slightly protruding belly. I placed my hand atop it, idly brushing my fingers across my skin as I focused on the small pulses of magic power emanating from the egg. It was definitely stronger than before...

"..Dokja?" I looked over my shoulder at the regressor's concerned look. He searched my expression for a moment before he spoke again. "I'm sorry."

I frowned, narrowing my eyes suspiciously. He couldn't have found out about the scenario just now, could he..? "For what?"

"What I said last night," he murmured, placing his hand over the one I had on my stomach. "It was wrong of me to comment on your body like that."

I blinked in bewilderment, my mouth gaping slightly. That was what he was concerned about? I paused a moment and realized that my actions just now probably looked like I was being self-conscious.

Shyly, I looked into the water. "That's not what I'm.." I mumbled, turning my hand around to hold his. He laced our fingers together without complaint, rubbing a thumb over my knuckle in a soothing way. I let go of his hand, pressing it against my belly.

Yoo Joonghyuk didn't say anything as he let me hold it there. The warm feeling of the magic power felt more intense with the protagonist's touch, the egg likely responding to his higher stats.

"What..?" He gasped, sounding a mixture of alarmed and confused.

"This is because of you," I grumbled, puffing my cheeks. That irrational anger against him was coming back despite knowing full well he was rather innocent in all of this.

"What do you mean? Because of me..?"

I bit my lip. Guess I had to be specific.

"Joonghyuk-ah, I'm pregnant."

His hand twitched against my stomach, the flow of magic power wavering slightly. He didn't say anything for an awkward moment, and then two notifications rang out.

[Yoo Joonghyuk has used the skill 'Lie Detection.']

[Your words have been proven to be true.]

"What." I looked over my shoulder and relished the baffled look on his face. "How..?"

"How do you think?" My flat tone and raised brow made his face go a little red as he cleared his throat.

"That's not... What I meant was, how are you physically pregnant?"

It was my turn for a red face as he stopped me from turning away again, holding my face gently and looking into my eyes. I swallowed nervously, chewing on my lip. Now was the time to be honest.

Letting out a sigh I met his gaze with as much confidence as I could manage, recalling my talk with Sajeo. He was taking things well so far, but the truth could make or break this.

"Persephone.. um, your teacher..." The words caught in my throat as I found it difficult to speak. Yoo Joonghyuk didn't look any less confused, but he patiently waited for me to say what I needed to.

"In exchange for your teacher to see her relatives, Persephone gave me a personal scenario to.. repopulate.. some of the underworld." Even though my voice wavered, I managed to get through all of it and braced myself for the response.

The protagonist looked at me as he mulled over my words. I could imagine he was putting together the timeline in his head, probably calculating my actions from the time I returned from the Gourmet Association to the times I'd propositioned him for sex.

[Your understanding of the character 'Yoo Joonghyuk' has slightly increased.]

[You already have a high understanding of this character.]

The notifications proving me right also served to fluster me, my complicated emotional state causing my chest to hurt a little.

"So.." He cautiously drew me out of my thoughts. "Is that the real reason you asked me the first time? And not because you were 'pent up'?"

My face felt like it was on fire at his words. I could only nod in response. A look of horror suddenly crossed his features, making me the one who was confused.

"That means... After the tea, you were.." I realized what his line of thought was and rushed to reassure him.

"No! No, I wasn't then." I bit my lip nervously as I couldn't continue looking him in the eye. "That time was actually what did it.. um."

I turned around to rest more comfortably, leaning back against his chest and fidgeting with the fingers of his hand, which had moved back to my thigh.

"The scenario is..." I tried to recall the words Persephone had used to describe it, shaking my head in frustration as I had to find my own. "It moves a lot quicker than a.. normal pregnancy."

"How so?" Yoo Joonghyuk shifted behind me, noticing that the water was getting cold. His hand slid between my legs, pressing against my entrance as he gently scraped out the cum.

"Like, in- instead of mo-nths.." I shivered as his fingers curled inside me. I knew he had cleaned me after the tea incident but at that time I had been unconscious, and the previous night I had cleaned myself up, so I wasn't prepared for the regressor to finger me now.

"It.. Joonghyuk," I gasped. It felt like he was purposely teasing me, frustrated arousal building up inside with every movement his hand made.

"Yes?" He sounded calm, his actions not even pausing for a second. "Instead of months, it..?"

"Uhm, instead..." My head felt frazzled as I started to rock my hips subconsciously. Yoo Joonghyuk noticed my shifting and he removed his fingers quickly. The fast pull out caused me to moan the rest of my words. "It's Days- ah!"

"..Days?" I could hear his brow furrowing without having to look. "Isn't that too much?"

"Iunno," I slumped against him, catching my breath. His hand rested on my stomach once more, channeling the egg's magic through our bodies. The sensation was amazing, coursing over me like a gentle breeze as I sighed in bliss. We sat together comfortably for a bit, the regressor rubbing over my belly in a calming rhythm that made me sleepy. Hesitantly, he voiced his worry.

"What now?" I tipped my head at his soft voice, pulled from dozing off.

"Mm, I guess just waiting. 'M gonna talk to Myungoh-ssi, too, since he.." I trailed off, muttering nonsense that made Yoo Joonghyuk chuckle. I looked up at him, hoping to silence the lingering anxiousness at the back of my mind.

"You.. you're not mad, are you?" He looked down at me, the soft look on his face giving me heart palpitations once more.

"No. Although I wish you'd told me first, I'm not mad." He reassured, squeezing me gently in a hug. I felt my lips quiver as I couldn't stop myself from telling him the full truth.

"...Even if I were to say the aphrodisiac was intentional..?"

He stared at me blankly for far too long. And then he startled me with a laugh.

"You planned that?" He looked surprisingly amused.

"..Yes." I looked away. "I-I.. didn't think it would work.. And certainly not as well as it did."

"Thank you," Yoo Joonghyuk sighed, dropping his head onto my shoulder. "For telling me, I mean. I.."

"I know," I spoke softly, raising a hand to ruffle his hair. "And I'm sorry for making you feel shitty."

He huffed lightly. "I don't care, I'm just glad you aren't hurt."

I hummed, the relieved tension making me aware of the ache in my lower half. "Well, I do hurt in a way," I wiggled my hips back against him. "Won't you make it up to me?"

The regressor chuckled at my playful innocence, reaching over to drain the tub. "I take it you want breakfast in bed, then?"

I gasped at the possibility. "That's an option?"

Yoo Joonghyuk snorted as he started drying me off. "You didn't think it was?"

Well, I thought he would've been against food outside of a kitchen or dining room. Perhaps the cozy mood was enough for him to disregard any of the disdain he might have. I clung to him as he lifted me out of the tub, nuzzling his shoulder.

"You can't take it back now!"

Yoo Joonghyuk and I fell back asleep after eating breakfast. It felt like a lazy stay-inside-and-nap kind of day, the rainy atmosphere outside assisting in the comfortable domestic vibes.

Unfortunately, my mood upon waking up was as damp as the fresh air coming through the window.

This nausea inducing sense of dread settled over me as I sat up, fidgeting with the blanket as I fought off the sudden urge to cry. Yoo Joonghyuk entered the room at that moment, freezing in place for a second before he hurried over to me.

"What's wrong? Are you hurt?" The regressor doted on me like a smitten husband, not helping the tears that wanted to leave my eyes.

"I don't know!" I wailed, the waterworks not staying put no matter how much I fought against the torrent of raw emotion. Yoo Joonghyuk wrapped me up in a hug, rubbing my back and gently rocking me as I cried through the sudden outburst. After a few minutes, I calmed down enough to pull away, sniffling.

"Are you hungry?" He offered, standing when I nodded my head. "I got dumplings."

I got emotional whiplash from the way my heart pounded with excitement, my chest feeling tight as I looked up happily. The poor regressor was caught off-guard by the sudden mood swing, looking uncharacteristically nervous as he helped me up.

The dumplings helped to stabilize my mood for the rest of the day, calming me to the point I had no issues. Overjoyed to spend the day curled up and reading, I often felt the eyes of Yoo Joonghyuk on me. At first it was nerve-wracking, making me anxious with the way he pointedly looked away any time I caught him staring. Though I couldn't quite read what his gaze meant, I eventually relaxed and accepted whenever it was cast on me.

When I was able to understand the looks he gave me, it was right after dinner when I felt an impassioned sense of longing from him. I wondered if he felt the same as I did; that our tenuous relationship had irreparably changed. Our loose label of 'companions' was outwardly enough, but between the two of us it blurred the line of what we were. The deeper conversation around this change scared me, and so I never brought it up. I guessed Yoo Joonghyuk did feel the same, since he didn't mention it either.

[Your understanding of...]

The system messages faded out as I suddenly found myself in the arms of my beloved protagonist, our lips pressed together in a kiss that silenced all the worries that tried to crop up. I turned to mush in his grasp, resting my head on his shoulder when we parted. We spent an unknown amount of time just standing in the kitchen and holding each other, gently swaying in a sort of lazy slow dance.

Things blurred together as Yoo Joonghyuk eventually brought me to the bedroom, the soft caresses kindly complimenting the warmth of our mixed breaths. We shared no words in this moment, our bodies speaking for us.

Yoo Joonghyuk explored me more intentionally than before, taking his time to feel over every inch of my body; tracing my collarbones down to tease a nipple, brushing over the ribs that still showed through my skin and pinching at the little pockets of fat on my hips. He rubbed a thumb over the skin of my inner thigh before squeezing, his hand nearly the same width. I thought about that morning, when he had felt like he made me self-conscious and I couldn't help but find it a bit silly now.

With the way his hands explored me in this moment, seemingly committing every curve and bump to his memory, I found it hard to feel any negative way about my body. I was sure the Fourth Wall might've been right with that word, but fear of the unknown scared me from voicing it. I met the regressor's eyes and saw my feelings reflect back to me; that same longing of comfort that fought against the countless worries.

[The Fourth Wall shakes faintly.]

I had to bite my lip to stop from crying for a third time, Yoo Joonghyuk giving me a distraction by nudging my legs apart to settle more comfortably above me.

"Even though you're.. y'know," he started awkwardly. The cute shyness made me feel like I was in a teen romance, my heart aching at the idea that I could've had a better life back then, if only I had known him to be real. He continued before I could think too long about what it would've been like to go to school with the regressor. "Do you still want to do it?"

I felt a smile grace my lips as I wrapped my arms around his neck and pulled him down, giving him a quick peck and laughing giddily. "Yeah, I do."

He nuzzled my face, placing kisses down my cheek to my jaw as his hands worked with my lower half.

"Can you put it in right away?" I breathed, spoiled by the comforts of being connected to another. "I think it should be fine since we did it so much..."

Yoo Joonghyuk hummed, groping my ass as he tested my hole. There was little to no resistance for his one finger, so the regressor nodded. Quickly reaching over for the lube, he squeezed some into his hand and I decided to help speed things along by reaching down to take out his cock, giving him a few affectionate strokes that brought him to full mast.

Slicking his length, he wasted no time in pressing into me. At first it was a little tight, but the familiarity of the hard shape eased me as I accepted him completely. I sighed in bliss as he wrapped his arms around me, pinning me to the bed in a hug. He moved just enough to grind against my insides, humping me lightly as he played with the shape of my hips. The combination of the slow pace and the way he squished the meatier parts of my body was overwhelmingly sweet, coating me in that feeling.

I realized now that I underestimated just how much changed, the cruel feeling of outright need for the other corrupting my mind. All at once I felt comfort of companionship mix with the fear of loneliness, and soon enough the tears started falling again. I buried my face in the regressor's shoulder, the soft affections inviting me in as if he was asking permission to claim me as his.

For all I was concerned, it had been long since I wasn't his.

Day six.

It was obvious now. Yoo Joonghyuk seemed happy about this fact, his hand rubbing gentle circles over my round belly as I pretended to still be asleep. I was pulled close to his chest, our legs tangled together and...

Well, the regressor seemed happy about something else. I contemplated the slight hardness pressed against my tailbone, and was surprised to find it disgruntled me. After a several days in a row of thirsting after him, I was not interested in this moment.

"Joonghyuk," my voice sounded rough from not having been used in a while. He hummed softly behind me, rocking his hips slightly. To his dismay, I pulled away and laid on my back as I looked at him, unimpressed.

"..Too much?" He mumbled. The resigned disappointment as he accepted my rejection made me take pity, so I reached down to palm at his erection, satisfied as it grew to full length.

"Dokja?" Yoo Joonghyuk sounded startled as he froze, hands hovering near his crotch as if he weren't sure if he should stop me or assist me. Feeling triumphant that I caught him off guard like this, I shuffled a bit closer and let his cock drop onto my thigh. Placing my hand over it and pressing down lightly, I sandwiched him between my skin as I offered him agonizingly slow stimulation.

The protagonist was having an amusingly hard time holding himself back, his breathing becoming heavy as he puffed hot breaths towards my face. I admired his handsome features for a moment before I let him take some control, parting my legs and nudging him slightly. At the stop of my movements, he rolled over and started humping my thigh. I felt a sense of satisfaction at the way he desperately sought his own pleasure from my body. I squeezed my hand over his tip when he suddenly pulled back, moving my hand away as he grasped himself.

With a few frantic pumps, he shot thick strings of cum over my stomach, painting my skin with the creamy whiteness as he came down from his orgasm. I raised my brow at him once he caught his breath.

"Well?" He met my eyes and seemed frozen by my gaze. "Are you proud of your mess?"

He looked down at said mess, looking incredibly pleased. He placed a hand over my stomach, smearing the cum across my skin as he channeled magic through the egg inside. The steady thrum coming from deep within me was comforting, making me go completely lax.

My stomach growled and I kicked the regressor aside as I sat up. "Breakfast time!" I laughed as he unceremoniously fell off the bed with a strangled noise, casting over a glare that held no weight. I crawled to the edge of the bed, letting my legs dangle over as I smiled at him. Yoo Joonghyuk looked up at me from the floor, shuffling on his legs to be between my legs. I squeezed him slightly, ruffling his air as he leaned forward and pressed a gentle kiss to my belly.

"Ah," I felt my emotions stirring and had to swallow down that overwhelming urge to cry. My companion, now in tune with me since I cleared the air about the situation, recognized the tone of my voice as he stood up and offered his hands. I used the leverage of his strength to stand with ease, letting myself tip forward a little more than necessary as I placed my head on his sturdy chest.

"Do you want anything specific?" I could feel the rumble of from his voice as he hugged me, the warm smile on my face felt like it was becoming natural.

"Somethin' sweet.. no, eggs! Ah, I can't decide.." I rubbed my nose against his skin, various foods passing through my mind. He shook slightly with a chuckle.

"You can have both if you really want." I looked up at him happily.

"I'll go clean up, then!"

That afternoon, I decided to go and have that talk with Han Myungoh. Despite Yoo Joonghyuk requesting that I'd rest, offering to bring the man to me, I instead relished the fresh air gently ruffling my clothes. Hopefully this time I was dressed enough that Jang Hayoung wouldn't run away immediately.

The regressor followed me with a doting air, trying to give me space while staying close to me as if he thought I'd collapse at any moment. I considered telling him that I felt better than I had in a while, but I figured that would make him worry more. Before we could enter his teacher's cabin, he was pulled away from me with a pathetic noise.

"There ya are!" The Breaking the Sky Sword Saint triumphantly held Yoo Joonghyuk by the collar like a mother cat reprimanding her misbehaved kit. I smiled up at the giantess, greeting her politely.

"Well, aren't you just positively glowing!" She laughed heartily after looking over me. "Get what ya wanted from my disciple, eh?"

I felt my face warm and noticed the regressor's ears go bright red as he grumpily looked away from his teacher. I sighed happily, holding a hand to my cheek as I reminisced the pleasure of the past few days.

"That and more~ thank you very much for the help, Saint-nim."

"Haha, so that's why you haven't been around, hmm?" She winked at me playfully before setting Yoo Joonghyuk down, patting him on the back and nearly sending him to the ground in the process.

"Let me know if he does anything wrong to ya, alright?" Although it seemed to be joking, there was an edge of seriousness to her voice that made me feel safe.

"You don't have to worry, Saint-nim," I reassured her with a sly grin. "He wouldn't do anything."

The regressor visibly shivered when I ran a finger over his spine, giving him an innocent smile when he glanced over at the wisps of my status showing through. He had spent a while beating himself up over the tea incident, but in this moment he seemed intimidated enough to rethink just how complicit I actually was.

The swordswoman looked highly amused by Yoo Joonghyuk's uncharacteristically flustered state, giving me an approving look after I casually threw a thinly-veiled threat towards him. The door behind me then opened and I turned in time to see Jang Hayoung right before she rushed into me. Startled, I stumbled back and braced myself for the fall as my balance tipped. But the fall never came.

"Watch where you're going," Yoo Joonghyuk scolded her, holding me up as he put himself in front of me in a protective manner. A violent pang went through my chest and I felt my breath catch in my throat. Despite my frigid impassivity that morning, I could feel my body warm because of the regressor's actions and had to move away from him to recover.

Jang Hayoung looked wide eyed between the two of us before looking past me. "Saint-nim, will you teach me some more?"

"Of course, and you've got a buddy today!" The giantess grabbed Yoo Joonghyuk again, much to his displeasure. I giggled as he gave me a silent, helpless plea.

"Have fun~" I waved them off, finally walking into the cabin. Han Myungoh was sipping tea with the Breaking the Sky Sword Master next to him. She looked over at me as I came in, greeting the two of them.

Woof?

「Did you tell him?」

I smiled to her, sitting beside the two. "I did, thank you for the reassurance. You were right, it went even better than I hoped."

Woof! I pat Sajeo's head as she congratulated me again, turning to the department head who watched us curiously.

"Myungoh-ssi, I.." Sajeo tapped her nose to my knee, giving me the encouragement I needed. "I'm pre- ugh, I can't say it..."

Han Myungoh raised a brow, giving me a friendly albeit teasing smirk. "Pregnant, you mean?"

I rubbed the back of my neck, feeling exceptionally warm.

"Y-yes. I got a scenario, and so.." I cleared my throat. "What I wanted to ask was..."

He looked at me as I trailed off, catching onto what I meant before I could find the right words.

"Would you like my assistance?" The genuinely calming tone with which he used would've made the Kim Dokja of the past spiral with questions of his reality and if the department head was really himself. I nodded, feeling myself relax due to his kindness.

"Yes, that would be nice." I fidgeted for a moment before voicing my worries. "Yoo Joonghyuk is taking good care of me, but I'm worried about the.. the birth."

He nodded in understanding, placing a hand over my own with a reassuring smile. "Of course I'll be there for you, Dokja-ssi. And it's good you have such a nice.. companion with you."

I flushed at his intonation on my relationship with the regressor, wondering just how obvious the two of us have been.

[Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' wonders if this is heaven.]

[Constellation 'Lily Blooming in Aquarius' points out that the nebula 'Eden' is heaven.]

[Constellation 'Queen of the Darkest Spring' smiles at you.]

Of course, there were some who thought it was obvious from the start.

[Constellation 'Prisoner of the Golden Headband' is reminiscing because of your situation.]

[Constellation 'Abyssal Black Flame Dragon' wants to see you beat up Yoo Joonghyuk.]

[Constellation 'God of Wine and Ecstasy' thinks pregnancy looks good on you.]

..And there were those weirdos. Constellations can't be normal, can they?

[Constellation 'Mass Production Maker' wishes for your motherhood to go well.]

[1,000 Coins have been sponsored.]

...Well, that included me, too.

"Do you know when you're due?" Han Myungoh asked me softly.

"I think in three days..? The pregnancy is quick.. Like, days instead of months quick. It has been six so far."

[A constellation who labored for nine days and nights prays for your safe delivery.]

[Constellation 'Queen of the Darkest Spring' agrees.]

I looked up at the message, wracking my brain for who it might be. Based on Persephone's interaction, the most I could gather was that they were probably part of Olympus. Perhaps I could ask Yoo Sangah in the future.

"Oh dear, that sounds stressful." Han Myungoh cast me a sympathetic gaze. I smiled in hopes to assure him that I was okay.

"I'll admit it has been a bit rough, but I seem to have a doting husband to help me." I blushed at my own words as the department head laughed.

"Well, he is a good man to be taking accountability for getting his wife pregnant, hmm?" Sajeo barked a laugh and I felt my face burn hotter in embarrassment. Considering how I'd not done much more than sleeping and propositioning the regressor and earning all his attention in return, I couldn't deny that I seemed to have become Yoo Joonghyuk's trophy wife.

[Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' is having a heart attack.]

[Constellations who cherish holy matrimony are reprimanding the constellation 'Demon King of Salvation' for his unchastity.]

[Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' thinks that the incarnation 'Yoo Joonghyuk' is devoted to the incarnation 'Kim Dokja' and that it is okay.]

[Constellation 'Scribe of Heaven' looks at you.]

Well, shit. I guess I really was going to become Yoo Joonghyuk's trophy wife if Eden had any say in the matter.

[Constellation 'Mass Production Maker' wonders if there will be a wedding.]

Chapter Text

The seventh day woke me up with a heavy feeling of dread.

Sitting up carefully, I noticed that the sun wasn't even out yet; the faintest wisps of light coating the world in soft blue. I turned to the regressor sleeping peacefully beside me, kept a little more to his own side of the bed. I took a deep breath in attempt to calm my panic before my heart could race.

Yoo Joonghyuk shifted in his sleep, turning towards me slightly. I shuffled closer and laid down, nudging at his arms. I rolled onto my side as he tossed an arm over me, pulling me flush with his body. His soft breathing told me that he hadn't woken up.

A small smile formed on my face as the regressor gently stroked my belly as he slept on, the slow thrum of magic soothing me back to sleep.

"Kim Dokja..?" I woke up slowly to the groggy voice by my ear, feeling the hand on my stomach squeeze gently. I hummed quietly to let him know I was listening.

"Do you feel it?" He whispered, the softer tone of voice pulling me fully awake. He traced the bump that had grown even bigger, the warmth of magic stronger than days past.

"Soon," I smiled, tipping my head back to be able to nuzzle his face. Yoo Joonghyuk kissed my cheek, the smile on his lips clear as day.

I turned in his arms to get a better look at him, biting my lip.

"Are you scared?" There was no judgement in his murmur.

"A little," I admitted, relaxing when he brought a hand to my face and brushed my hair from my eyes.

[A constellation who labored for nine days and nights has revealed her modifier!]

[Constellation 'Mother of the Moon and Sun' assures you everything will be okay.]

[Constellation 'Prisoner of the Golden Headband' nods in agreement.]

[Constellation 'Queen of the Darkest Spring' smiles at you.]

The two of us were startled out of the domestic moment by the notification sounds, and I laughed lightly, the smile returning to his face making me feel warm.

I pondered the 'Olympus' constellation who's modifier was revealed. 'Mother of the Moon and Sun' must be the titan goddess Leto, who gave birth to the twin gods Artemis and Apollo. She wasn't a constellation ever mentioned in TWSA, but I felt grateful for her support. Though her previous pseudonym was a little worrying as I wasn't entirely certain I could remember the myth it referenced...

"What are you thinking?" Yoo Joonghyuk nudged me gently, rubbing circles on my side.

"Hopefully it wont take me nine days to give birth."

[Constellation 'Mother of the Moon and Sun' laughs.]

[Constellations who birthed children hope you have an easy time.]

[A constellation who likes to change genders is offering to make it easier for you.]

Yoo Joonghyuk made a complicated expression, a noise of distaste leaving him at the last message. I chewed my lip as I awkwardly laughed it off.

[Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' glares at the constellation who likes to change genders.]

"Ugh," I pressed against the regressor and tried to hide my embarrassment, thankful for the strong arms that wrapped around me to provide comfort.

"I think it'll be fine either way," he muttered. I turned my head to get an odd angle of his contemplative expression.

"With Myungoh-ssi, I don't think you need to worry." I offered him. "I know you're thinking of Lee Seolhwa, but it'll be okay. I'll be okay."

He looked down at me, relaxing slightly at my words though a strange look remained in his eyes. I wondered if he was uncomfortable thinking of the doctor while holding me. Well, they were married in his past regression...

Yoo Joonghyuk pinched my nose, giving me a look that told me to stop thinking nonsense. I smiled sheepishly, moving away from him to stretch.

I kicked my legs idly as I was gently moved by the swing I was on. It was hanging from a tree near the training grounds that I had never knew existed, but Yoo Joonghyuk was kind to show it to me when I clung to him in the morning.

This meant I got a front row seat to the Breaking the Sky Sword Saint's teaching methods. Jang Hayoung seemed to get along well with her, taking the training seriously. However the regressor, who had already done these exercises in his past, was doing his own thing. If I were to be honest, I was more interested in watching my companion. But nobody was asking me to be honest, so I said nothing.

[Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' smiles at you knowingly.]

And I certainly wasn't going to be honest to her. Despite her unending support of our companionship, I still felt a little apprehensive of her obsessions. She'd been running with Lee Jihye's misunderstanding in the theatre dungeon and probably felt like she won now that I was...

I frowned slightly. Yoo Joonghyuk and I never discussed our relationship and how our 'companions' label has adapted to our changes. I'd presumed that we were dating now, if the egregious amount of sex, domestic moments and kisses were anything to go off of.

Yoo Joonghyuk turned and noticed me watching him, flexing his muscles as he performed a complex maneuver perfectly, hardly breaking a sweat. He looked back at me and I grinned, smiling wider when I saw the look of pride in his expression.

"He's like an animal, y'know what I mean?" I startled and turned to his teacher. When did she come up..?

The Breaking the Sky Sword Saint laughed heartily at my momentary shock, patting my shoulder with a gentleness I didn't know she was capable of. Though, thinking about it, she does seem like the type to purposely use more strength than necessary. It was pretty funny to watch Yoo Joonghyuk stumble under a simple friendly gesture.

"I think..?" I realized I was silent too long and tried to remember what she even said to me.

"That move just now? Seems like he was showin' off for his mate," she grinned cheekily at me and I felt my face go red.

"Do you think we're mates, Saint-nim?" I turned back to the regressor, who continued his training with more of a showoff air.

"He's definitely like your husband," she chuckled. I smiled softly as I watched him.

"I guess I don't mind being a wife."

There was a comfortable silence between Yoo Joonghyuk and I as we walked through the woods, the setting sun painting the atmosphere gold. After training I had told the regressor I didn't want to go back yet, admitting to the stuffy feelings that had started to creep up on me. He offered to walk with me so I could get fresh air, just roaming aimlessly and enjoying the peace.

He took a subtle step closer to me, hand brushing mine. I felt a shyness warm my face as I turned my hand to take his. The larger hand felt comfortable, the rough skin passing his warmth onto me. He swayed our arms slightly, an idle movement I found oddly endearing.

Stealing a glance at the regressor, I admired the way he was practically glowing with beauty. The sunlight highlighted his dark eyes beautifully, his skin radiating warmth softened only by the faint tracings of faded scars. He caught my gaze, a gentle smile gracing his lips.

[Incarnation 'Kim Dokja' will be killed by the one he loves most.]

I stopped suddenly, overcome with the emotions I failed to acknowledge sooner.

[Stu pid Kim dok ja.]

I hated to admit I was wrong, but I couldn't deny it any longer.

I loved Yoo Joonghyuk.

"Dokja?" I blinked away tears at the tone of voice I'd never expected to hear from him before. It was so obvious now, and I couldn't stop myself from speaking with wet eyes.

"I love you."

I buried my face in my hands as I failed to stop the onslaught, crying out weakly.

"I- I love you. I'm sorry, I..." Yoo Joonghyuk took my hands, pulling them away gently and giving me the softest look I'd ever felt.

"You don't need to apologize," he breathed. I shook my head.

"Sorry- I mean, I-" I hiccupped as I looked down at our hands, running my thumb over the rough scars he had. "I.. I think I've loved you since-" Since I first read your story. "For a long time, I mean."

His eyes widened at my words. I hoped that he took my stumble as me not wanting to admit it was since we first met. He squeezed my hand and thankfully didn't question it.

"I.. I think I started loving you after the fifth scenario." Yoo Joonghyuk admitted with a short breath, touching our foreheads together. "I tried hard to deny it, but after the Devourer of Dreams killed you.. And the tenth scenario..." I was stunned by the faintest bit of a wobble that was in his voice, the rare moment of heartfelt truth making my eyes water more.

I laughed slightly as I had a thought. "Is that why you told Nirvana you weren't interested in men?"

He groaned as he pulled away, narrowing his eyes albeit with no hostility. I tried to smile cheekily even as tears stained my cheeks.

"You aren't going to let me forget that, are you?" I clasped his hand as I laughed more happily, my face growing warm in that now-familiar way it did around him. I couldn't recall a time I'd felt this light.

"Nope!" I pulled him along down the path, making haste to get back before the sun fully set.

Returning to the cabin, I gasped when I was pushed against the door after entering. Yoo Joonghyuk leaned in to kiss me, a strong and passionate outpouring of emotion radiating through it.

"J-Joonghyuk-ah?"

"Sorry," he murmured, though he didn't look that apologetic. "You've been blushing the whole way back."

Heat settled in my gut as I bit my lip. "Oh?"

He analyzed my expression for a moment before he pushed off the door, stepping away from me. "I'll make dinner."

I was appalled by how quickly he withdrew, watching as he moved over to the kitchen and started pulling things out. He didn't look back at me once, but the red tint to his ears made me smile. I let him off the hook this time, leaving him in the kitchen as I went to change into more comfortable clothes before dinner.

We snuck glances at each other while we ate together, looking away when our gazes caught. I felt light, giddy with the unfamiliar territory, thinking to when I thought the descriptions in romance novels had seemed exaggerated. Now that I was experiencing them myself, I figured that they had been accurate the whole time.

When we finished eating, Yoo Joonghyuk had barely managed to put the dirty dishes in the sink before he was on me again. Warm, gentle kisses pressed over my face, making me giggle at the ticklish sensation. He smiled in a slightly goofy way that gave me the urge to claim he was acting out of character.

Taking my lips with his as he picked me up, I waved away that idea as my heart fluttered from the bridal carry.

[Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' is thrilled by the display of companionship!]

[Constellations who value marriage are swooning.]

[Constellation 'Prisoner of the Golden Headband' reminisces with a smile.]

[Constellation 'Mass Production Maker' is...]

.
.
.

Our kiss broke as I couldn't help but laugh at the various constellation messages that rang out. The regressor was unbothered by the messages, if not just ignoring them, as he gently lowered me onto our shared bed. Excitement bubbled up in me as he settled beside me, kissing me once again.

Yoo Joonghyuk was more explorative this time, pressing against me in a slow rhythm before rubbing his teeth over my lower lip. I opened my mouth with a smile, letting him feel around with his tongue. The make-out was sloppy and slow, but I was ecstatic. The wet dripping of saliva between us was exhilarating, spurring on the movements of our lips.

I spread my legs to let him get closer, rubbing on him as he gently pressed his knee against my crotch. I rocked my hips, lazily humping his thigh as he leant down to kiss my neck. I gasped and sighed with every little nibble to my skin, relishing the feeling when the regressor's large hand wrapped around my length.

He stroked me as we started kissing again, pumping with the same hot and messy movements he made with his mouth. I swallowed every bit of the attention, sucking on his tongue and silencing the moan I let out when I was tipped over the edge. He continued to kiss me as I came down from the high, slowly catching my breath though he tried to steal it.

Yoo Joonghyuk pulled away, looking smug and satisfied. He found nearby clothes and wiped off his hand, tossing it somewhere else as he settled down. He pulled me close to him in a mirror of how we woke up, nuzzling my shoulder.

"Eh..? Joonghyuk-ah?" I tipped my head in confusion, receiving only a hum in response. "Are you..?"

"I'm good," he murmured, pressing flush against me to prove it. Sure enough, I didn't feel any sort of thing that would suggest his arousal. I squashed the negative feelings that tried to crop up, instead mentally praising his ability for self restraint after how much he was enamored to hold me the past few days.

I smiled freely, snuggling up to him with a yawn. "Then cuddle me, 'kay?"

The eighth day started out fine.

I woke up warm, bundled in the blankets and feeling cozy after my domestic evening with the regressor.

Although he wasn't present currently, most likely already up and making breakfast. I shuffled awkwardly to his side, struggling to properly move with the weight of my stomach. I nuzzled into his pillow, catching the familiar scent I could only describe as his.

"Dokja-yah," I startled when he called out to me, blushing at the honorific. I turned to see him holding a tray of food, a teasingly gentle smirk on his stupidly handsome face. "Good afternoon."

I struggled to sit up, frowning. "Afternoon?"

"Yes, you slept in." He set the tray aside and helped to prop me up with some pillows.

"You didn't wake me?" I asked in shock. He gave me an unimpressed look as he passed over the tray.

"No. You could use all the sleep you can get."

Ah, right. Today was possibly my last day of pregnancy. The calm before the storm, or something like that.

[Constellation 'Mother of the Moon and Sun' agrees with incarnation 'Yoo Joonghyuk'.]

[Constellation 'Divine Doctor Guam' encourages you to rest while you can.]

I chewed on a piece of bread in worry at the ominous message. Yoo Joonghyuk sat beside me and rubbed my back comfortingly, sensing the emotional shift. He was surprisingly perceptive for someone who seemed so impassive on the surface.

"Does this mean I can sleep all day?" I joked.

"If you want to," he replied seriously. I laughed at him.

The rest of the day passed by in a blur. I spent the time reading, Yoo Joonghyuk bringing Han Myungoh to the cabin and helped him get settled into a spare room. The three of us ate dinner together, the former department head nearly crying over the regressor's godly cooking. He said his goodnight to us and I returned to reading for a bit while my companion washed up.

"You should get to sleep soon," his voice broke through the air as he entered the bedroom. Whatever rebuttal I had ready never made it out of my head as I gaped at the regressor before me.

Yoo Joonghyuk was freshly showered, having nothing save for a towel around his waist. His still wet hair curled attractively, droplets falling onto the towel over his shoulders. Some of the water missed however, sliding down his chest in a way that made it hard to ignore his godly sculpture of a body.

"Y-you should dry your hair properly," I spat out weakly, looking away immediately as I tried to contain my arousal. Unfortunately, the regressor seemed to think that I was upset for some reason. He said nothing more to me as he dried his hair, throwing on a pair of pants and distancing himself from me when he got under the covers.

I swallowed nervously as I set aside my reading, turning off the light and laying down to stare at his back.

"Hey, Joonghyuk-ah?" I blushed at the higher pitch of my voice. He only grunted in response, so I reached out a hand to touch his shoulder. He rolled over and I got to feel his chest. His muscles were firm.

"...Dokja?" I looked up, barely making out the uncertain expression in the dark. I slid a finger down his chest, running along his abs and then playing with his waistband.

He grabbed my wrist hesitantly, pulling it away from where I started to dance my fingers near his crotch. My pleased feeling of the bulge that started to form was dampened when Yoo Joonghyuk rolled me away from him, nuzzling my neck as he spoke quietly.

"Sorry, not now."

I stared into the darkness for a moment before whining in annoyance. "Why not? You haven't had a problem before."

His hand rested over my belly, channeling the magic there. I flinched slightly at how intense it was.

"See why?" He murmured, kissing my cheek. "So I won't do anything. You need to save your energy. It's already late, we don't know when you could go into labor."

Damnit, he made sense. The matter-of-fact way he said it seemed to leave no room for argument.

Unfortunately for him, I was stubborn and often disregarded things he was adamant were impossible.

"But," I rubbed his hand, purposely ghosting my touch up his wrist. "I think if you're careful enough, it'll make things easier for me."

[Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' says intimacy can help induce labor.]

[Constellations who have given birth nod in agreement.]

[Constellation 'Divine Doctor Guam' looks at you thoughtfully.]

I cheered internally at the indirect messages. Had it only been Uriel supporting me, the regressor would've stood his ground on refusing. But with the mothers of the star stream and even the sponsor of Lee Seolhwa agreeing with her, I felt like I'd won.

Yoo Joonghyuk hesitated behind me for a moment before placing a hand on my thigh, obviously starting to feel me up. "Then, are you sure?"

"I've never been more sure about anything," I exaggerated slightly, nudging him.

He propped himself up, reaching over me and blindly fumbling for the bottle of lube. Before he laid back down, he gave me a kiss that sparked my desire even more.

"I'll be gentle," he whispered, kissing my shoulder as he pulled off my underwear. In preparation for the next day, I opted to wear a robe again; one that had the unintentional plus of giving the regressor easy access to me.

I turned to take his lips, kissing him slowly as he slicked his fingers, his hands rubbing against my butt as he prepped me. The familiar slide was comforting, letting me relax with a sigh as I enjoyed the motions. He took his time with fingering me, leaving marks on my neck as he focused on pleasuring me.

"Joonghyuk-ah," I whimpered as I started to get close, nudging my hips back to coax him on. Despite his hesitance earlier, he was quick to comply with my wants. The familiar warmth that filled me when he pushed in quelled all my worries, my body melting against his as I let out a pleased sigh.

"Tell me if it's too much," he kissed my cheek as he gently rocked against me. I rested my head back on his shoulder, rubbing the hand on my thigh. His touch moved from my leg up my side, sliding over to circle my belly. I held onto his arm as his slow movements mixed with the pulsating magic, soft moans escaping my lips as I pressed against his chest.

"You're taking me so well. So warm for me," Yoo Joonghyuk whispered by my ear, spiking the arousal burning within. The hand tracing my stomach, the careful steady drag, light kisses peppered on my skin. They were all so enjoyable, but it was his words that got me the most.

"I love you, Dokja-yah."

I cried out quietly as I came, the regressor closing his hand over my tip to save the mess. My head spun as my heart fluttered, the sentence washing over me again as I regained my composure.

"Mmn, 'ove you too," I mumbled into his cheek, giving him a shy kiss. I could feel his face shift with the smile he gave. I nuzzled back against him as I bathed in the hot afterglow. "Do what you need to finish."

"..What?" He sounded genuinely surprised.

"I'm saying it's okay for you to cum inside, okay?" I huffed, feeling my face heat up in embarrassment. The regressor shifted behind me, pressing his face to my shoulder.

"Dokja, I already..."

I blinked. Processing his words several times over, I finally realized the warmth in my body that was from my companion.

"Oh." I internally cringed at my pitch. I chewed on my lip slightly as I paused. "Then, uh.."

"Do you want me to... Stay in?" He mumbled uncertainly. I nodded, feeling comfortable with his touch all over.

"If it's okay, I.." gulping, I mustered up courage I wasn't sure I had. "I like to.. fall asleep like this. It feels safe."

I could feel his smile against my jaw as he gave me a kiss, settling behind me and wrapping his arms around me protectively.

"Joonghyuk-ah," I whined softly, roused from my slumber by a pang down my back. The regressor startled awake from the sound, blearily grabbing for me and looking around for any threat.

Another jolt of pain in my spine caused me to squirm, pathetic whimpers escaping me as it lasted longer.

[Constellation 'Prisoner of the Golden Headband' is alert!]

[Constellation 'Queen of the Darkest Spring' looks at you.]

"It's okay," his deep voice helped to soothe me as he helped me sit up a bit, running a hand over my belly. The familiar thrum of magic nullified the next wave of pain, and I was able to relax again. Yoo Joonghyuk kissed the top of my head as I settled down, the pain easing off for the time being.

"Do you want me to get him, or are you fine for now?" He asked softly, his hand not leaving my stomach. I chewed my lip uncertainly, putting my hand over his.

[Constellation 'Mother of the Moon and Sun' says it isn't necessary for now.]

"How so?" I mumbled at the message.

[Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' is wringing her hands nervously.]

[Constellation 'Divine Doctor Guam' says labor can take 12 hours or more.]

"Wha- no!" I sobbed in horror. "I-I can't do that!"

Yoo Joonghyuk wrapped his arms around me quickly with soft hushes.

[Constellation 'Mother of the Moon and Sun' reassures you it'll be fine.]

I turned my head, crying into the regressor's shoulder. The soothing circles he rubbed into my skin and the gentle rhythm he rocked me with helped me to fall asleep once more.

I woke up again with another shock of pain. I was thankful it wasn't any worse than before, but it still felt miserable as I whined and kicked the blanket off.

Yoo Joonghyuk jolted awake beside me at my sudden thrashing, sitting up quickly and doing his best to soothe me.

"I hate this," I slumped against him once the short wave ended.

"You can do it," he muttered as he gave me a reassuring kiss. "You're so strong, I know you can do it."

I whimpered pathetically. "I-it'll get worse."

"You can do it," he repeated, the vibrations from his low voice letting me close my eyes. "And I'll be with you the whole time, okay?"

I nodded with a sigh, shifting to remove the lingering pain.

[Constellation 'Divine Doctor Guam' suggests to improve your circulation.]

At that message, Yoo Joonghyuk moved a hand down to my legs, rubbing gently.

[Constellation 'Mother of the Moon and Sun' says walking can help.]

"Walking, huh..?" I murmured to myself, patting the regressor on the arm.

"Breakfast time, then!" I started shoving him off the bed, his laugh making me smile and forget the earlier pain.

I could do this.

I couldn't do this.

"It's okay, you're okay." Yoo Joonghyuk murmured softly as he helped me stay standing, the contractions more intense than before. It was only midday and I already wanted this to be over with.

"It'll only get worse, Dokja-ssi." Han Myungoh tried- and failed- to be comforting, patting my arm as I clung to the regressor's steady body. I groaned as I shook from the pain arcing down my lower back.

"C'mon, I'll take you back to bed."

"Nooo," I whined in protest, squeezing my companion tightly.

[Constellation 'Queen of the Darkest Spring' watches you carefully.]

[Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' wishes she could help.]

"Do you want to go out for a bit, then?" He kissed the top of my head, swaying me gently in his arms. I nodded meekly, managing to stop leaning on him so much.

"Some fresh air will do you good," the former department head moved forward to open the door for us, giving me a kind smile. "I'll start preparing things, so just take it easy alright?"

I was appreciative of his help but unable to properly convey it, making a mental note to thank him when I was in a normal headspace again. Yoo Joonghyuk guided me outside, the warm afternoon air giving a cool breeze that calmed me down. He lowered me on the stairs carefully, and I leaned against him when he sat beside me.

I took in steady breaths, relaxing in the outdoors. Another, weaker wave of pain washed over me, but I felt comfortable enough to not be tortured by it this time.

"Is something wrong?" I tensed slightly at the curiously worried voice as Jang Hayoung approached us. I turned my head into the regressor's shoulder as he looked up at the transmigrator.

"No." I could tell his curt response upset her without even looking up. I gripped his hand, silently begging for him to not cause trouble.

Yoo Joonghyuk, thankfully, understood my touch and he leveled his voice out.

"He's not feeling well is all. He'll be fine with rest."

"Again?" Jang Hayoung sounded weary as she looked at me. "What're you doing to get sick this often? Not very good for a demon king, if you ask me."

I turned my head to look back at her, speaking up before the regressor could get annoyed.

"It's the new environments. My immune system isn't the best, so.." I lied easily, offering a shaky smile.

She seemed comforted enough from my words, taking my stable voice as a sign that I was alright besides being physically exhausted.

"The Saint was going to invite everyone for dinner, but I'll tell her it isn't a good time."

"Maybe tomorrow, I should be feeling much better then." She nodded, offering me a smile and well wishes before running off. I sighed as I leaned against my companion, closing my eyes as I basked in the fresh air once more.

I held onto the windowsill and took a heavy breath. The pain was awful by now, but I was thankful that it didn't make me nauseous and I was able to eat the light meal Yoo Joonghyuk had made for me. Said man hovered by me, hands partially raised as though he were expecting me to collapse all of a sudden.

Now that I thought about it, this was the same Yoo Joonghyuk who had a child with Lee Seolhwa in his past regression. He never got with her again after he lost her the first time, and the flashbacks to his first regressions were disjointed, so TWSA never had any in-depth scenes with her while pregnant.

I would've found it cute that he was so attentively worried, but another pulse through my hips made me groan and tap my head to the window. Those strong hands placed over my waist, rubbing gently as they held me up.

[Constellation 'Divine Doctor Guam' says it has been 13 hours.]

"A-ah?" I looked up as I shivered. That meant it was almost over, right..?

"Let's get you settled, then." The regressor whispered softly, supporting me as he brought me to the bedroom. I held onto him as a thought crossed my mind.

"Can I sit in your lap?" I murmured.

[Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' nods fervently.]

[Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' says it would be good.]

[Constellations who birthed children are nodding in agreement.]

I wondered why Uriel seemed to know so much about pregnancy, but I shook it off as Yoo Joonghyuk sat down, awkwardly pulling me into his lap. I shuffled to sit on one thigh, his arms wrapping around me to stabilize me as he ran his hands over my belly.

[Constellation 'Divine Doctor Guam' says that bouncing can help.]

[Constellation 'Queen of the Darkest Spring' says there are modern inventions for this.]

[Constellation 'Prisoner of the Golden Headband' reminds her of where the incarnations are.]

"That's what I thought," I mumbled. "I don't know how, but at the back of my mind I thought of it."

"I see," he said as his leg slowly started to bounce. The steady movements were calming, evening out the pain of the next contraction. He bounced me for what felt like an hour but probably wasn't, his leg stilling as he carefully moved me onto the bed to stretch.

I started bouncing slightly as I sat on the edge of the mattress, ignoring the smile that the regressor gave me. I breathed out heavily as I shivered through another contraction, easing myself through it as best I could.

"Kim Dokja?" I hummed uncomfortably at the soft voice.

"C-could you tell Myungoh-ssi to-" I inhaled sharply as the pain spiked before tapering off. "To get.. ready."

I paused as Yoo Joonghyuk brushed my hair back gently, his touch soothing me.

"I think I-I'm getting close, but.."

[Constellation 'Divine Doctor Guam' thinks it may be too early.]

[Constellation 'Mother of the Moon and Sun' says you have a little time left to relax.]

"Half an hour, maybe?" I offered weakly. He nodded, giving me a kiss before turning to leave.

"I'll be back quick, okay?" I smiled gratefully. He really was a great companion.

I continued to lightly bounce as I waited for his return.

Yoo Joonghyuk, true to his word, was back quickly. I couldn't be certain, but it seemed like he left for barely two minutes.

[Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' is tearing up at the companionship.]

He chuckled sweetly as I clung to him immediately, practically dragging him onto the bed. He shuffled around, seating himself behind me. His hand rested on my thigh and I had a sudden idea.

"Hey, Joonghyuk? Could you-"

"Finger you? Of course." He cut me off, somehow already with the same idea as me. I frowned as I watched him lube up his fingers, carefully pressing two in and gently opening me up. Did this guy have a mind reading skill or what?

"After last night, I figured this might be helpful before the birth," he murmured. "Just do your best to relax, alright?"

I nodded, laying back against his chest and sighing as he kissed the top of my head. His fingers worked slowly, pausing movement for my contractions before starting again. It made things easier, but the pain was bordering on unbearable as it felt like my guts had started to rearrange themselves.

Humming to offset the pain, I took steady breaths as the regressor pressed gentle kisses to my neck. He rocked me slightly as he pressed his fingers deeper, spreading them carefully. The stretch made me shudder, the muscles in my lower half tensing with an innate urge to push.

"Okay?" Yoo Joonghyuk noticed the change, pressing a kiss to my jaw. I mumbled incoherently as I breathed shakily, the shocks in my stomach becoming more frequent.

"Dokja?" He pulled his fingers out, a whimper leaving me with the action.

"It's so close.." I managed to find my voice uneasily, turning my head on his shoulder. He held onto me and gently changed my position, pulling me into a hug as he placed me in his lap. There was a soft knock on the door before Han Myungoh entered, towels draped over his shoulders and a bowl of water in his hands.

"Perfect timing it would seem," he smiled, closing the door even though nobody else was in the cabin. He came over to the bed, placing the dish on the ground somewhere behind me. I didn't bother to try and look at what he was doing as I gripped onto the regressor's arms and whined pitifully.

A foreign hand on my back made me flinch, and the former department head made a soothing noise. He let me adjust to his touch before he moved down to lift the back of my robe slightly. I felt incredibly exposed but was in too much pain to feel embarrassed.

"Okay, Dokja-ssi," I heard him shuffle behind me, getting as good of a glance as I could at his serious expression. His eyes softened when they locked with mine, a comforting sense of understanding conveyed in his gaze. "If you feel you need to push, then push. But don't force it."

I nodded shakily, a new wave of pain stabbing at the base of my spine and sticking there. I choked back a sob as I buried my face in my companion's neck, grateful for his gentle hold though it didn't do much to help the ache. His hands squeezed my thighs before he moved to rub gently at my lower back.

Relaxing slightly under the massage, I took a deep breath and pushed.

Searing pain shot through my gut, a heavy movement slowly working its way down. I gulped in air as tears fell freely from my eyes.

"That's it, just like that." Han Myungoh's voice was soothing to me. I mused that in the past I would've been more worried at that tone, but at this point it was welcomed. "If you don't feel you need to push, then take a break. It'll make it just a little easier."

I hummed in response, my body trembling with another jolt of pain. I pushed through it with a long groan, the odd weight traveling further through my body.

"You're doing so good," Yoo Joonghyuk kissed by my ear. I whimpered and started pushing once more, encouraged by his words.

"Almost there, Dokja-ssi." The strange hand returned to my back, helping to hold me steady as I paused to breathe.

"Aah, it's coming!" I cried out as I gave my best push, that weight clinging to me before shooting out with a satisfying feeling of relief making me cry in joy. There was a gentle splash before Han Myungoh stood beside me, holding up a black egg etched with golden markings.

"You did it," my companion rumbled with pride. His scarred hand reached out to touch the egg, the gold veins glowing with the magic energy he channeled through it.

[Constellation 'Prisoner of the Golden Headband' coos at the egg.]

[Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' congratulates you!]

[Constellations who birthed children are relieved.]

I tried to smile weakly, but another wave of pain squeezed my insides.

[Several constellations are alarmed!]

[Constellation 'Divine Doctor Guam' is squinting.]

"Wh-why isn't it over?!" I sobbed into the regressor's front. It was quiet for a moment before Han Myungoh scrambled about, his hand soon placed on my back once more.

"Dokja-ssi, you'll have to keep pushing, okay?" His voice trembled as he tried to comfort me, and a whine escaped me as I realized what was happening.

"Persephone.. didn't tell me there would be more than one, ngh."

[Constellation 'Queen of the Darkest Spring' commends Incarnation 'Yoo Joonghyuk' for his fertility.]

"Fffuck y-you," I grit out, pushing through a contraction before taking a break to gasp in air.

Yoo Joonghyuk could never let me have the last laugh. "Well, that's how we got here in the first place."

[Constellation 'Mother of the Moon and Sun' is offering you comfort.]

[5000 coins have been sponsored.]

While the money was nice, I was sad I couldn't see the look on the regressor's face at the comment Persephone had made. Based on the cough-covered laugh behind me, it must've been a really good one.

"I'm never doing this again!" I whined as I weakly pushed, exhaustion taking away what little effort I had left to give. Gentle hands rubbed at my back and thighs, soft whispers urging me to push, telling me how I was almost there.

"You're so good, Dokja-yah." Yoo Joonghyuk's husky voice made me shiver in a way that oddly helped me.

"Just a little more. I know you can do it," he rocked me slightly, soft kisses easing me through the next contraction. The second egg slipped from me with my last push, leaving me shaking and whimpering as I fell limp against the regressor.

"You did it, Dokja-ssi." Han Myungoh sounded as relieved as I felt. I shivered slightly as he cleaned me with a cold cloth, drying me before pulling my robe down. Yoo Joonghyuk shifted, turning me around and pulling me to his chest as he moved to lay back against the pillows.

[Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' is crying happily!]

[Constellation 'Prisoner of the Golden Headband' is tearing his hair out in excitement!]

[Constellation 'Mass Production Maker' is...]

.
.
.

[Constellation 'Mother of the Moon and Sun' smiles at you.]

I opened my eyes when a towel was carefully pushed into my arms, identical eggs wrapped up in it. A warmth filled my chest as I held the eggs, smiling happily. I felt the same way as when I cuddled the dokkaebi egg, caressing the shells like I did for Biyoo. It was quiet save for my heavy breathing, my companion and Han Myungoh watching me for a moment.

Calming down from the extremes of the pain, I looked up to him and felt my eyes water with gratitude.

"Thank you so much, Myungoh-ssi," I sniffled, holding the eggs close.

"I'm glad I could help." He smiled. "Congratulations."

Yoo Joonghyuk tucked his chin to my shoulder, brushing over one of the eggs as he held onto me. I blinked with tiredness, catching the former department head's attention.

"Things seem to be alright now, so I'll give you two your time." He bowed his head kindly, making his way to the door. "I'll be in the other room, so just yell if you need me."

I waved him out of the room and settled back onto my companion, cradling the eggs with a dopey smile.

"You okay?" Yoo Joonghyuk murmured, rubbing my hips gently. I nodded, resting my head against his chest with a small yawn.

[The personal scenario goal has been met.]

I felt a pang in my chest at the notification, subconsciously holding the eggs tighter.

[Constellation 'Queen of the Darkest Spring' looks at you sadly.]

"Just.. let me get some rest."

[Constellation 'Queen of the Darkest Spring' nods in understanding.]

[Constellations who birthed children look mournfully at the eggs.]

"It'll be okay," the regressor pressed a kiss to the top of my head. "You still have the kids waiting for you. Biyoo as well."

As if summoned, there were small sparks in the air where a puffball appeared suddenly.

[Baat!]

Biyoo landed in my arms softly, snuggling between the eggs and rubbing against my chest. I smiled down at her, stroking her head gently.

"I'm happy. Really happy." I admitted, closing my eyes as I steadied my breathing. The strong arms around me tightened just a little bit, feeling like a protective shield.

Though I would have to get back to the Demon King selection after this, I let myself have this moment of rest; basking in the warmth of the evening. I caught Yoo Joonghyuk's words just before falling asleep, a small smile forming.

"I love you, Kim Dokja."