Chapter 89

Otto raised an eyebrow in surprise. Durandal's ability to speak was indeed unexpected, but it didn't matter. The reason was perfect, killing two birds with one stone. Shen Gonglin's direct promotion to S-rank had indeed caused a lot of different opinions. After all, his qualifications were too shallow. He had only been to headquarters once and had already become an S-rank. Many people questioned this result. In addition, given what happened between him and Durandal, a large number of people suspected that Shen Gonglin was due to an ambiguous relationship with Durandal. This public assessment could also clear Shen Gonglin's name.

"I see."

Without further hesitation, Durandal nodded in agreement. Since that was the case, it was only natural for her to go out and make an appearance. Besides, it would seem like she was afraid of Shen Gonglin if she didn't go. She needed to go and collect the debt. Shen Gonglin had taken all of her and Rita's money. Instant noodles were delicious, but they couldn't keep eating them forever. That was her money!

"By the way... what's the specific development progress of the combat armor for Project Moon?"

Before she could even leave, Durandal stopped again. After a moment's hesitation, she asked the question. This was a secret of Schicksal. Based on Shen Gonglin's Universal Angel Armor, Schicksal used it as a prototype to develop the 4th Generation God-Slaying Armor, codenamed the Moon Series. Durandal was qualified to possess one of these armors. Although she was already Durandal powerful, having that armor would definitely greatly enhance her combat strength.

"It's still under development. The weapon modules and mobility still need further improvement. It can't be used in actual combat yet. What, are you finally interested in your God-Slaying Armor?"

This is Schicksal stage. If Durandal, who is already the strongest Valkyrie, were to add this God-Slaying Armor, she might actually reach the level of Godslayer. Even Otto is looking forward to it. Unfortunately, it has not yet been fully developed.

"I was just asking casually."

With that, Durandal walked out of Otto's office. The armor wasn't ready yet? Oh well, there was nothing she could do. If she had that armor, she should be perfectly fine... But it's alright, last time she was just too careless, this time...

Even without that armor, I can still annihilate the enemy!

The 351st thought

Why does Durandal seem... afraid of something? It must be my imagination. She's the strongest Valkyrie right now. Even when she was alive, Durandal probably wasn't as strong as she is now.

Watching Durandal leave, Otto stood up and looked out the window at the sky. Although Shen Gonglin was a variable, she shouldn't affect his plans. For now, he would proceed as he had envisioned. As long as K423 followed his plan, sooner or later... a human who would control the power of the Herrscher. He was somewhat looking forward to it.

That said, Theresa, Shen Gonglin, Rita, and Durandal... all four of Schicksal's strongest S-rank students are gathered at the St. Freya Academy, so nothing should happen, right?

"Shen Gonglin, is this where you usually train with the Class President? The Class President is actually giving you special training. No wonder you became an S-rank. If I could get special training too, I would definitely be promoted very quickly!"

On the school's back playground, Kiana followed Shen Gonglin and Fu Hua to their usual training ground and started shouting. Shen Gonglin the other hand, pouted helplessly. This was supposed to be her and her Class President's private spot, where she could usually act cute and her Class President would let her have her way. But with Kiana around, she couldn't do that anymore, because she had to save face.

Shen Gonglin still thinks she has a very impressive image in other people's eyes.

"Class President, why did you bring Kiana along? I feel like her presence will affect my studies, so let's just have the two of us. Kiana, go back now."

Shen Gonglin complained. After being discharged from the hospital, he was dragged back to studying by the Class President. He didn't like training and studying in the first place, but he reluctantly agreed because Fu Hua Shen Gonglin take advantage of him from time to time. Now, Kiana, the third party, had interfered. This was really annoying. It was supposed to be a private time for him and the Class President. Why did she have to disturb them?

"Hey, do you have to be so stingy? What's the impact of adding me? Shen Gonglin, I never thought you were this kind of person!"

Before Fu Hua could even speak, Kiana was already annoyed. She jumped onto Shen Gonglin's back and bit his head. Shen Gonglin jumped around in pain, trying to get Kiana off, but she wouldn't budge. This girl was like a monkey, groping and scratching all over him. It was infuriating! What did it matter if she was included? Did this girl really enjoy being with the Class President? The Class President was so rigid; she was definitely more compatible with him. Shen Gonglin, that idiot!

He said that Kiana wouldn't give them a chance to be alone, she insisted on staying here and wouldn't let the two of them be together!

"Alright, alright, you two better behave yourselves. Kiana also needs my help to catch up. There's a saying that goes, 'One Rin is a challenge, two Kiana and Rin are also a challenge.' From today onwards, I will be responsible for guiding both of you."

He quickly went over and pulled the two people wrestling on the ground apart. They had started fighting without him noticing. These two guys really didn't care when they fought. They were both students of St. Freya, but they acted like thugs, pulling hair and gouging eyes. Could they be any more shameless? As for why Kiana was called over... well, there was a reason for that, of course.

Shen Gonglin's desire for his master's body has become increasingly obvious lately. He's almost taken advantage of her, and Fu Hua is starting to get scared if she's alone with him any longer. She might get completely taken advantage of by Shen Gonglin one day. The main reason she called Kiana over was to protect her. If there are other people around, Shen Gonglin will probably restrain himself a bit.

Moreover, she wouldn't be so easily swayed by Shen Gonglin's coquettishness. That guy's ability in this area is just too strong; a little coquettishness and she'd be completely bewildered and go along with his wishes. Fu Hua felt that this couldn't go on, so she called Kiana over, partly to remind herself to always keep a calm mind.

What kind of proverb is this? I've never even heard of it before. This Class President is definitely making it up.

Separated from Kiana by Fu Hua like a primary school student, Shen Gonglin rubbed her head and glared at Kiana with resentment. Since the Class President had said so, Shen Gonglin had no choice but to study with Kiana. Just wait, she would definitely get her revenge. Who told her to interfere with her time alone with the Class President? If she wasn't there, the Class President would definitely arrange for her to have a lap pillow or a chest pillow.

Fu Hua stated that Shen Gonglin was talking complete nonsense and that she would never do such a thing.

"Class President, they say it's for instruction... but what are we supposed to learn? It's not going to be some kind of theoretical class, is it?"

Although she was determined to cause trouble here, Kiana was still quite afraid of academic studies. It was worse than killing her. This was her weak point, and she hated studying the most!

"Don't worry, you can't skip the theory class, but today we'll be learning about combat... How about this, Kiana, you spar with Shen Gonglin first, and I'll see what your current level is."

Fu Hua pushed up her glasses and said these words mercilessly: Kiana needs to improve both her theory and practice, and Shen Gonglin can be Kiana's sparring partner here. However, as a sparring partner... we have to put some restrictions on her.

"Shen Gonglin, this is just a friendly spar, so you are not allowed to use Angel Mode, nor can you use Bio-electricity stimulation, and forget about blood-sucking abilities. All you can use is physical combat, understand?"

Seeing Shen Gonglin rubbing her hands together in anticipation, Fu Hua solemnly emphasized that she was quite familiar with Shen Gonglin's special abilities. When she fought Durandal, the Angel Mode she used had even subtly surpassed that strongest Valkyrie. Her Bio-electricity also significantly increased her speed, and if she were to use her vampiric abilities...

Heh, what's the point of comparing then? Even I would instantly collapse into a limp mess and my body wouldn't obey my commands. Shen Gonglin's abilities are just too troublesome.

"You might as well let me tie my hands and feet and fight Kiana," Shen Gonglin thought, speechless. This was practically restricting everything about her. But if she wanted to teach Kiana a lesson, this was the only way.

Think about it, even without using these abilities, it should be possible to easily defeat Kiana, right?

Chapter 352

Inch of Strength. Clouds and Mist.

The Cun Xin Fist, Fu Hua's, was unleashed by Shen Gonglin. Since the Class President had restricted all her useful abilities, Shen Gonglin could only fight using physical techniques. Speaking of physical techniques, Shen Gonglin actually had several, but the one she was most comfortable with was the Cun Xin Fist personally taught by Fu Hua. This fist technique was both useful and durable. The only problem was that her fists hurt so much.

Kiana parried Shen Gonglin's arms with both hands. Unlike Shen Gonglin, who seemed forced to perform, Kiana fought with increasing enthusiasm. This girl was naturally full of energy, and her battle with Shen Gonglin filled her body with vitality. On one hand, there was the Kaslana family's Gun Fu, and on the other hand, there was the Valkyrie Fu Hua's self-created fist technique. The two fought back and forth on the playground, and Fu Hua had witnessed their entire battle. Although she couldn't use other abilities, Fu Hua was already quite amazed that Kiana could do this.

However, we still can't praise her too much. This performance isn't perfect yet. Kiana is currently fighting entirely based on her outstanding physical abilities. Although this is her talent, Fu Hua feels that Kiana can achieve even more.

"Alright, stop for now. I've seen your performance, Kiana. Attack A, Reaction A, Intelligence E, Overall Rating E. In short, you only know how to fight using your superior physical abilities."

Fu Hua had taken Kiana's performance to heart. It seemed that Kiana hadn't fully mastered the Kaslana family's taijutsu. She had incorporated her own habits into the taijutsu, which made it seem somewhat incongruous. Fu Hua was somewhat aware of this. It wasn't that she didn't want to learn it completely, but... perhaps she could have Shen Gonglin work on perfecting the Kaslana family's taijutsu?

This guy's martial arts talent is the strongest Fu Hua has ever seen. Even if he learned it by stealing from Kiana, he could probably still imitate it and deduce the complete Kaslana family Gun Fu if he wanted to.

"What's wrong, Class President? If we keep fighting, Shen Gonglin definitely won't be a match for me. Why did you suddenly stop? And why did you give me such a low score? I was almost winning!"

After Fu Hua called a halt, Shen Gonglin and Kiana stopped. The young lady of the Kaslana family grumbled in dissatisfaction. This wasn't just her making things up; it was the truth. Although Shen Gonglin's fighting style was exactly the same as the Class President's, his stamina was far inferior. With her excellent physical abilities, Kiana could easily wear Shen Gonglin down and then defeat him effortlessly. This was practically Shen Gonglin's open weakness. Although he was forced to train every day by the Class President, the results were minimal. His stamina matched his appearance perfectly; he was a frail young nobleman.

Shen Gonglin herself didn't understand why this was happening. It was as if her physical limits were fixed, as if her body was frozen in time, forever maintaining the physical condition of a sixteen-year-old. It felt like she had been cursed.

"There's a reason why I gave you this evaluation. Also... if the fight continues, I can't guarantee that Shen Gonglin will still uphold martial ethics. If you push him too far, he won't care about any restrictions. Kiana, have you thought about the consequences?"

Looking at Shen Gonglin sitting on the ground, panting heavily, Fu Hua shook her head and whispered something to Kiana. Right now, he was still relatively obedient, not using his Electromagnetic Force or Angel Mode. But if Kiana continued fighting him, Fu Hua swore to the lantern that Rin Shen Gonglin would definitely use them. After all, that kid definitely wouldn't admit defeat, and that would be difficult to handle. If he beat Kiana into submission, that would be fine, but the key issue was if he started kissing her...

That move against the Valkyrie's strongest attack was truly terrifying. What if it bit the Queen herself out while she was biting?

"... Class President, you're right, it's fine as it is now. But isn't the E score a bit too low? I feel pretty good about myself."

Clearly, Fu Hua's words made Kiana realize something. After a brief silence, she stopped dwelling on the issue. The experience in the bathroom a few days ago had left a shadow on the girl. The feeling of being locked in the bathroom with no one to call for help, and the torment of having to suppress her wild thoughts with only a mop by her side... Shen Gonglin was clearly not human. Kiana never wanted to experience that again... and she never wanted to go through it again anytime soon. It was too damaging to her body, and Kiana couldn't take it.

"Whether you're good or not isn't for you to say. It's really going to be difficult for you to pass the test like this. Get ready, Kiana. I'll give you some extra lessons in the next few days."

Pushing up her red-rimmed glasses, Fu Hua gave Kiana an ultimatum. Although Kiana looked very troubled, she nodded solemnly. Although she was not good at dealing with this situation, Kiana was determined to advance.

It seems... I have nothing to do again? Kiana has her own things to do, so what should I do now?

Kiana and the Class President started training, while Shen Gonglin suddenly found herself with nothing to do. Students like her, who were academic underachievers, needed to catch up on their studies, while academic geniuses like Shen Gonglin had no such worries. There was nothing to do here either. Shen Gonglin was a restless person by nature, so she figured she might as well leave as soon as possible. Even just wandering around would be more interesting than what she was doing now.

"Shen Gonglin, you... wait, where's Rin Jingu?"

Having dealt with Kiana's matter, the Valkyrie's mental training is a simplified version of the Mindful Essence. Fu Hua now plans to teach Kiana a part of the Great Void Sword Qi as well. However, Fu Hua only felt mentally exhausted when teaching Kiana. Not everyone has the learning talent of Shen Gonglin. Just when she wanted to use Shen Gonglin as a reference, she found that he had left sometime earlier. Looking at the empty lawn, Fu Hua hesitated for a moment and did not go to find Shen Gonglin. After all, this was still in the St. Freya Academy.

Even if he has a terrible sense of direction, he wouldn't get lost in a place like this... Even if he did get lost, he probably wouldn't be in any danger.

Fu Hua had little confidence in Shen Gonglin's terrible sense of direction, and even when teaching Kiana, she seemed a bit distracted. He should be alright, right?

Where is this place again?

Looking at the bustling street in front of him, Shen Gonglin suddenly felt bewildered. He had clearly followed the road signs to the restaurant, so how did he end up in this place? This was obviously no longer within the St. Freya Academy. He remembered that he had only turned a few corners, so how did he end up in this completely unfamiliar place? Come to think of it, which direction did he come from? He had no idea.

The artificial island where St. Freya is located is very large. It's not just St. Freya Academy; it's a city. Shen Gonglin's main area of activity is actually just between the dormitory and the cafeteria. The Valkyrie in the academy are all making their final preparations for the exams. He wandered around aimlessly and ended up wandering out of the academy. It was as if some voice in his head told him to come out. When he came to his senses, he found himself here. This is... a clothing store?

Shen Gonglin rubbed her head. Actually, this wasn't the first time she'd felt this way. Ever since Stigmata... no, I mean the stigma appeared on her back, she'd often entered a dazed state, completely confused and not knowing what she wanted to do. Now it seemed to be getting worse, affecting her normal sense of direction. She was probably getting lost because of this.

"Hello, is there any clothing you like? Is it for you... or for your girlfriend?"

Shen Gonglin stood out so much at the entrance of the clothing store that the saleswoman couldn't help but ask him a question. If it were just a regular clothing store, it wouldn't be so bad, but this store specialized in women's clothing. When Shen Gonglin didn't have long hair, you could still tell that he was a boy, which was why the saleswoman hesitated. Was he buying it for himself or for his girlfriend?

Does he have a girlfriend? It seems he doesn't.

"Huh? I was just looking around, just passing by..."

At this moment, Shen Gonglin also realized that this was a women's clothing store. Really, why was she spacing out in a place like this? It seems that she was really influenced by what Icarus said, such as women's clothing being a kind of power. Even if she died outside, she would not need such power. She has really lost her mind.

"Hey, Jingu, what are you doing here? Why aren't you staying at the academy? What are you doing out here?"

Just as Shen Gonglin was about to leave, a rather familiar voice suddenly rang out from behind him. Shen Gonglin turned around and felt a ball of flame approaching him. Murata Himeko ran to Shen Gonglin's side in surprise. Today, Teacher Himeko did not put her hair up but let it fall loose over her shoulders. This Himeko was less capable and more like a girl next door. She was out slacking off too.

"Himeko -Teacher Himeko."

She blurted it out without thinking, but when Shen Gonglin saw Himeko's suddenly unfriendly look, she quickly corrected herself. It was all Kiana's fault; she kept calling Himeko "auntie" and it sounded like it just came out of her mouth. Himeko should at most be called "older sister," how could she be related to "auntie"? She's still young.

"It's a good thing you changed your mind quickly, otherwise your stomach would probably have been hurting all day... Did you come out alone? That's rare, Fu Hua didn't come with you."

Himeko felt a little regretful that she hadn't been able to take the opportunity to give Shen Gonglin a good beating in the stomach. She looked around in surprise and realized that Shen Gonglin was indeed the only one who had come out. This was quite rare, considering how much Fu Hua cared for him. After the mission of the Moonlight Throne Fu Hua had been taking care of Shen Gonglin almost constantly. Kiana and the other girls were also often around Shen Gonglin. It was truly unusual to see him alone like this.

Thank goodness I went out today, otherwise I might have missed this opportunity.

"... You're making it sound like I'm some kind of pet that can't live without its owner. The Class President definitely has her own things to do. I was just bored, so I came out for a walk by myself. Himeko, I just wanted to ask, what's this road again?"

Fu Hua's comment made Shen Gonglin raise an eyebrow. It felt like a bratty kid being bumped into by a neighbor and asked where his parents were. This déjà vu annoyed Shen Gonglin, as if she were some unreliable person. Everyone who knew Shen Gonglin knew how reliable she was, right? Seriously, everyone underestimated her. Shen Gonglin rolled her eyes and pointed in that direction, asking Himeko. How could she openly admit she didn't know the way? Now that Shen Gonglin was emotionally hurt, she needed to go back and comfort the Class President ...

No, why does this feel like a brat who's been bullied is going home to complain to his parents?

It must be an illusion.

"Owner and pet? That's a rather unique way of putting it. I'd like to have a pet like you too. That's the way to St. Freya over there... Hey, hey, hey, Shen Gonglin, don't go anywhere. You can't get back by yourself. There are several turns over there. Come on, since I've run into you, you're not going anywhere. I'm all alone today, so you can come with me for a walk. You know, a woman's wardrobe is always missing one more piece of clothing."

Himeko, who said such things without any hesitation, is not a strict teacher. Or rather, she did not show her strict side to Shen Gonglin. She had never had a chance to meet Shen Gonglin, who was alone, outside. How could Himeko let her go? After all, Himeko had even been to the police station once because of him. She had already been to the police station. Now that she was in the police station, it was not too much to ask her to go shopping with Shen Gonglin.

Without giving Shen Gonglin any room to refuse, Himeko reached out and grabbed him by the back of his collar, lifting him up like she was catching a cat. Once she caught him, he wouldn't be able to run away. Usually, those girls kept such a close eye on him, but now she had finally seized the opportunity. For a mature woman, how could she just watch such an opportunity slip through her fingers?

"What do you mean I can't go back alone? Himeko, explain yourself clearly, this is very important... Hey, listen to me!"

Embodying the authority of a teacher and a mature woman, Himeko ignored Shen Gonglin's words and pulled her into the clothing store. She had never shopped with a boy before, and this experience was not to be missed. Shen Gonglin was the most suitable candidate. Himeko was determined to make the most of this opportunity without the interference of other girls.

Chapter 353

He realized that his physical strength was probably not up to par. For the first time, Shen Gonglin acknowledged this in his heart. He usually refused to admit it, after all, how could a man say he couldn't do it? But this time, he wanted to raise both hands in agreement. He really couldn't do it anymore. Please, let him go. Shen Gonglin was very good to him, so he shouldn't let him torture his legs anymore. If he continued walking... he was afraid he would freeze.

The kind of coldness that even medical school couldn't save.

As soon as they entered the clothing store, Himeko was like a wild dog let loose... well, that's not the best way to put it. Like a cat that had smelled fish, her eyes lit up. She dragged Shen Gonglin through every shelf. Thanks to her natural shopping instincts, Himeko seemed to never get tired. Actually, she didn't usually shop much; she would just buy what she liked and leave. But today was different. Having Shen Gonglin with her was like giving her a little motor. She wanted to look at every piece of clothing and try them on. But this was tough on Shen Gonglin. He was really not good at this kind of physical activity. If they kept going, he was afraid he would die on the spot.

The key issue is that he can't just follow along. Every time Himeko sees a suitable piece of clothing, she has to hold it up and ask Shen Gonglin for her opinion, which is both laborious and time-consuming.

"Shin-gu, what do you think of this outfit? Does it suit me?"

Himeko took a light green dress off the shelf and asked Shen Gonglin for her opinion with great interest. She didn't usually have a chance to wear it at school, but she could wear it at home. With her figure, she would look good in anything. But choosing clothes is a very important thing for women, especially having someone else choose for them.

"Yes, yes, very good, very suitable for Himeko."

Shen Gonglin nodded perfunctorily, not even glancing at Himeko. He just wanted to get rid of Himeko as soon as possible. It seemed that being with the Class President was more worry-free and effortless, since Class President didn't have a hobby of shopping. Although being with her might be a bit boring, Shen Gonglin could naturally find interesting things to do, such as trying to take advantage of her... As for being with Himeko, that would be the death of him.

"Get serious. What do you think of this dress? If you don't tell me properly, you're not going back to school tonight. I'm rich, and it's not impossible for me to let you sleep outside all day."

She speaks very recklessly, perhaps because Himeko was too excited about taking Shen Gonglin shopping. At first, she was able to maintain the composure of a mature woman, but as they walked, she revealed her true colors. Not only did she force Shen Gonglin to call her "older sister," but her words also became increasingly inappropriate. After all, this Himeko is the kind of person who picks up women in bars.

"This dress has a great design, especially the waist area. The cinched waist perfectly showcases your figure, Himeko- san. The lotus leaf hem adds a touch of pastoral charm and complements the light green color. The sewing is also above average, so you don't have to worry about any problems even with some movement. In conclusion, Himeko- san, this dress suits you very well."

Himeko's threat terrified Shen Gonglin. Shen Gonglin was relatively comfortable with other girls, but with girls like Himeko or Rita, he showed a natural cowardice. He was only outwardly a predator; he wasn't afraid of the Class President or Kiana because he knew they might be even more Shen Gonglin than him in crucial moments. But with a woman like Himeko ... Shen Gonglin genuinely afraid she would take advantage of him. What if he were pregnant... Oh, wait, he didn't seem to have that ability. In short, that was absolutely unacceptable; the Class President would definitely kill him then.

Startled by the scene in her mind, Shen Gonglin quickly focused her mind and began to seriously express her thoughts. This guy's aesthetic sense is actually quite good. It's like this kind of thing is engraved in his mind. I don't know who cultivated his fashion sense. It's almost like instinct.

The shop assistant who had just walked over looked surprised when she heard Shen Gonglin's explanation. She had originally planned to describe it like this... well, I mean, that's how she was going to introduce it. After all, this was the style of the outfit, and Himeko's figure was so good that even just wearing a burlap sack would be considered a uniform fetish, let alone wearing this kind of outfit. Had this little one worked in a clothing store before? She's quite good.

So what exactly is the relationship between these two people? Sisters... oops, siblings? But their intimate behavior doesn't quite seem like it. Could it be... a sibling-like relationship?

"Really? But I don't really like this color, so I'll pass."

Himeko nodded after hearing Shen Gonglin's opinion, but when she saw the color of the clothes, she decisively put them down. Seeing this, Shen Gonglin almost suffocated on the spot. She was really about to burst. If you don't like this color, then why do you ask me for my opinion? If you want to mess with me, then just say so. You just want to kill me!

"Then, Himeko- neechan, what color do you like? Let's just look at that color."

Shen Gonglin felt that her legs were almost at their limit. If she kept turning around, her legs would probably break. Shopping with Himeko was more tiring than fighting Honkai Beast. After all, when fighting Honkai Beast, you could just blow their heads off if you were unhappy. But Himeko... well, she wanted her life.

"A specific color? If I were to ask you suddenly... Jingu, what color do you like, or rather, what color do you think suits me?"

Himeko lowered her head and pondered for a moment, when a strand of red hair that drifted in front of her eyes made Himeko eyes flicker slightly. Of course, she knew what color she liked, but at this moment, she just wanted to ask Shen Gonglin. He should also know what color she liked, right?

"What color do I like? I think it should be red and white. I don't know why, but I always feel a sense of familiarity with this color, as if I used to wear clothes of this color every day. As for Himeko, of course red suits you. Don't worry about other colors, red is the best!"

Almost as a reflex, red and white immediately came to mind for Shen Gonglin. He didn't know why he had such a strong impression of these colors, but if there was one color that suited Himeko, it would definitely be red. This Valkyrie was like a flame, and red was the perfect color for her. Himeko would look beautiful in red.

"Yeah, I also think I look great in red. Shen Gonglin, I didn't expect you to have such good taste."

Himeko nodded, a smile of approval on her face, quite satisfied with Shen Gonglin's choice. It was perfect that Shen Gonglin knew what kind of clothes suited her. It seemed that this guy wasn't as carefree as he usually was. Although he might not have high emotional intelligence, he was quite capable at crucial moments. It was this small act of attention that made Himeko especially happy. Actually, even if Shen Gonglin couldn't say it, Himeko wouldn't be very angry, but it was still nice to hear it out loud.

Moreover, the colors that suit him are also the colors he likes, which is great.

"Red? I also feel that red suits you particularly well, miss. We happen to have a red dress here that I think perfectly matches your temperament. Please try it on."