Cui Ciyou's hand rested on Rudeus's shoulder without exerting any pressure.
But the cold, oppressive, scrutinizing aura radiating from him...
Held Rudeus completely immobile, like invisible shackles.
Then, reflected in Rudeus's terrified, steadily widening pupils...
A perfect smile appeared on Cui Ciyou's face, one that could almost be called "warm."
In a gentle voice, as though expressing concern for a friend, he quietly asked:
"Rudeus, could you tell me something?"
"Was the view up Roxy's skirt nice?"
The question struck like a bolt from the blue, instantly wiping Rudeus's mind blank.
Rudeus looked up in horror at Cui Ciyou's black eyes, utterly devoid of amusement and as cold as an abyss!
Meanwhile, Roxy stood beside them.
Hearing Cui Ciyou's blunt question left her unbearably embarrassed and angry.
Overwhelming shame and anger at the violation welled up inside her.
Roxy's fair little face instantly flushed scarlet!
She abruptly turned around, putting her back to the two who were about to have this "bizarre" conversation.
Roxy's shoulders trembled slightly, clearly from both embarrassment and anger.
H-he caught me? He... he saw me peeking up Roxy's skirt just now.
What do I do?... What do I do?... I absolutely cannot admit it!
Meanwhile, after his brain had been out of commission for three whole seconds, Rudeus...
Was already scared out of his wits, his heart pounding like a war drum being hammered by a hundred trolls wielding warhammers.
After collecting himself a little, Rudeus almost immediately put his planned last-ditch survival tactic into action.
Namely, using his innocent, childlike appearance to play a well-behaved little boy who knew nothing, and bluff his way through.
Rudeus encouraged himself inwardly: This trick works every single time.
*With all the experience I've accumulated from countless anime and games, even the "God of Conquest"-Keima Katsuragi-could do no