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"When the World Anchor is fully formed, there will be a world-shaking phenomenon. It's best to prepare beforehand to avoid any unpleasant surprises. Additionally, once connected to the virtual branch, this world will transition from dissolution to solidification. The reversal of extremes at both material and rule levels will cause temporary oscillations in the world barrier - simply put, the moment the Anchor Point completes, we must leave this world. Otherwise, the integrated World Core within my body might have adverse reactions with this unstable world bubble. You should also make appropriate preparations for this."
As Zeke observed the four girls, varying in age and demeanor, entering the water, he held his wine glass casually and spoke in a matter-of-fact tone.
This topic was precisely what they could not afford to ignore, especially Durandal, whose serious nature was further compounded by her royal responsibilities. She promptly knelt upright in the pool, back straightened, and earnestly declared:
"Thank you for your guidance, Imperial Father. Your subject shall not fail such trust!"
Zeke raised an eyebrow, pointing his wine glass towards Durandal. Glancing at her exquisite figure barely concealed by the simple towel wrap, he remarked:
"You call me 'Imperial Father,' refer to yourself as 'your subject,' yet present yourself like this?"
"Should Imperial Father wish it, Durandal can readily address you as my husband and assume the role of Empress."
"Just recently, all your titles for me were paternal; now suddenly, you're calling me 'husband'... Indeed, marriage also establishes hierarchical roles within a family, so that makes sense. Was this taught to you by Rita?"
"Imperial Father's wisdom knows no bounds!" Durandal lowered her head, displaying utmost deference.
Zeke took another sip from his cup, allowing Fu Hua to refill it while observing the four women present.
"As I've stated before, there is no way any of you could bear my child due to biological limitations—these cannot be overcome by mere human effort. The proper path lies in finding solutions to build your own nation," he declared calmly.
"Imperial Father, your words hold great truth," Durandal responded softly, losing her ability to challenge him under Zeke's tranquil gaze.
Rising gracefully, Rita waded through the water with her porcelain-like legs until she reached Zeke. She knelt elegantly before him, radiating charm, and spoke with a captivating smile:
"Of course, we have unwavering faith in Your Majesty's insights. However, desire between men and women isn't solely driven by reproduction. With Your Majesty's divine brilliance and unparalleled prowess, you are indeed worthy of admiration from every woman in existence, would you not agree?"
"Oh? So you love me because of my exceptional abilities? Or perhaps because of my appearance?"
"Indeed!"
"Don't tease me; you're not that kind of person. Prime Minister Rita, I suspect your words stem from realizing that I bear the responsibility for this world's survival, yet there isn't much here that truly interests me. The balance between what is asked and offered seems skewed—you fear I might not prioritize this world's continuation and, should any opportunities arise elsewhere, wouldn't spare it a thought, correct?"
"Your Majesty, Rita...Rita..." Stuttering, panic flickered in Rita's expressive eyes.
Initially, she had meticulously prepared numerous responses to eloquently address any argument. However, Zeke's unquestionable authority, accumulated over time, combined with his deep, seemingly all-knowing gaze, rendered her unable to utter even a single diversion or evasion tactic.
Zeke shook his head casually and said, "In your view, romantic relationships, men's desire for acquisition and possession, can serve as effective means to foster connections and receive rewards. Your dedication to public interest and selfless contributions deserve a toast."
As he spoke, Zeke pushed forward a tray bearing a small cup filled with wine.
Rita's cherry-red lips parted slightly, her expression shifting rapidly. With a sigh, tinged with sorrow and resentment, she lifted the wine cup and replied:
"Ah! So to Your Majesty, Rita is nothing but a calculating opportunist devoid of sincerity?"
"No, I acknowledge that you're inherently good. As for being skilled at scheming, it merely shows your intelligence. What's wrong with being smart? Personally, I quite appreciate intelligent individuals; they tend to be more reliable."
"Well, thank you very much, Your Majesty. But must you really hold back so much? While Rita shares your concern for the world, it doesn't mean we would be unwilling participants. You, sir, are an exceptional person. With just a nod from you, all four of us could... If you worry about upsetting Lady Kiana from another world, you can keep this secret without any issues. Even if she were to inquire, we will align ourselves entirely with Your Majesty's wishes. Will you not reconsider?"
"I dislike deceit, especially towards her. Cheers, Rita," Zeke said as he drained his cup.
Rita sighed once more, expressed her gratitude, and finished her drink. A hint of melancholy lingered in her eyes before she stepped aside, allowing Zeke to face Kiana and Zhuge Kongming directly.
"Kiana, you resemble her quite closely. I admit that seeing you sometimes evokes memories for me. However, no matter how alike we may be, you're not her; it's ultimately meaningless. As for Theresa... Don't try to act like grown-ups when you're still just a kid. After enjoying the hot springs, go back early, have some milk, and get plenty of sleep. You wouldn't want to hinder your growth."
Zeke addressed each girl individually, causing Kiana's face to fall, submerging her mouth underwater as she blew bubbles with disappointment. Zhuge Kongming initially felt embarrassed, then swiftly turned furious—I've told you repeatedly, my name is Zhuge Kongming! Who on earth is this Theresa?!
Observing their somber silence, Zeke's lips curved slightly upward. With a soft chuckle, he shook his head, revealing a rare moment of gentleness.
"All right, regardless of what happens, each of you is exceptional. I firmly believe you can bring a brighter future to this world. Keep striving hard and leave no regrets in life. As for your worlds, there's no need for excessive worry. Even if the worst should come to pass, at the very least, I can restore them to their current state. I won't let them vanish into nothingness instantaneously."
His words, tinged with the sentiment of farewell, carried an uncommonly warm smile. In that moment, all four girls found their eyes welling up with tears.
Zeke descended with unparalleled force from the heavens once more, becoming the trailblazer who forcefully guided them and this nation to their present state. In the past, there were frequent instances when his actions infuriated everyone, leaving them helpless yet exasperated. Looking back now, it was precisely him who made everything they had today possible.
As long as Zeke remained, even after stepping down, everyone could confidently move forward knowing that someone would step in during moments of error or uncontrollable chaos, offering an irreplaceable sense of security.
Now, this person was truly departing, possibly never to be seen again.
It felt quite tear-inducing.
"Cheers—" Zeke raised his head, drinking silently without further words.
But in that very instant, a soft, warm figure burst through the water's surface and threw herself onto Zeke.