Nine Hot Therians and Their Only One Queen novel Chapter 126

**When She Opened the Door to the Life She Was Afraid to Live by Nora Vale Kingsley**

**Chapter 126: Persuasion**

Edric stood tall, a figure of strength at the pinnacle of Rank 9. Yet, even that formidable stature felt inadequate in the face of the looming threat before him.

Corvin’s mech loomed large, a mechanical behemoth capable of crushing him with ease. And Silas? The very mention of his name sent a shiver down Edric’s spine, a reminder of the insurmountable power he wielded.

Only Lucien possessed the strength to maintain order among them, a guardian of sorts, ensuring that chaos did not reign.

“Emma’s other match, the one from the Enchanter Can—he’s as powerful as you. You wouldn’t stand a chance against him either,” Lucien pointed out, his voice steady but laced with concern.

“And don’t forget Marcus,” he continued, “the Frostveil Wolf Clan, Rank 11. You’re not ready for him.”

Lucien’s tone softened, though the weight of his words remained unyielding. “I don’t question the depth of your feelings for Emma. But she’s extraordinary, and I can’t gamble with her safety. Not now.”

As he spoke, Lucien lifted his hand toward the calm waters. A red spark ignited at his fingertips, a flash of raw power that sent ripples through the air. Moments later, rain began to cascade from the barren sky, shattering the tranquility with a fierce hiss as it met the lake’s surface.

“Edric,” he said, his voice dropping to a hushed tone, “I’ll grant you the right to challenge me. If you manage to defeat me, the title will be yours.”

Cold droplets of rain splashed against Edric’s shoulders, heavy and unwelcoming. Deep down, he had already contemplated this scenario. He was acutely aware of his limitations, and that knowledge had kept him composed when he had witnessed Lucien’s bond with Emma earlier.

“I’ll fight you,” he replied quietly, a steely resolve settling in his heart. “But not for that title.”

His gaze hardened as he declared, “I love Emma. Nothing holds greater significance for me than she does.”

Edric was painfully aware that Lucien was more suited to the role of protector. He understood that he was outmatched, and yet—

“Lucien,” he said, his voice rising with newfound determination, “I will keep striving. I will ascend higher. One day, I will surpass you.”

A faint smile tugged at the corners of Lucien’s lips, a glimmer of respect shining in his eyes.

“I’ll be waiting for that day,” he replied, a hint of challenge dancing in his tone.

Every fighter who dared to reach for more deserved acknowledgment and respect.

“Until then,” Lucien’s voice softened, returning to its steady cadence, “focus on your development. I’ll look after Emma.”

Edric found himself frozen, his mind a blank canvas painted with confusion and frustration. Lucien had dropped all pretenses; he had sent everyone away, claiming Emma solely for himself.

In the kitchen, warmth enveloped the air, rich with the aroma of fresh herbs and the comforting steam of cooking. Emma stood at the counter, ingredients neatly arranged before her, her sleeves rolled up and her hair tied back in a practical bun.

Lucien entered quietly, having changed into a simple yet comfortable outfit that somehow accentuated his chiseled features, as if he were a statue crafted from light itself.

He approached her with a gentle smile, his voice playful as he asked, “Emma, what would you like me to do?”

Emma brushed a few stray strands of hair behind her ear, a smile breaking across her face.

“We’ll keep it simple today. Oatmeal and cookies,” she replied, glancing past him, her curiosity piqued. “Where’s Edric?”

Lucien’s smile widened, his tone light and airy.

“He stayed up all night. I told him to get some rest. I’ll call him when breakfast is ready,” he assured her, his eyes sparkling with a hint of mischief.

Emma nodded, her heart swelling with warmth as she began to guide him through the steps of their culinary endeavor.

Lucien absorbed the instructions quickly, his movements fluid and precise, each action deliberate and focused. He wasn’t merely observing; he was fully engaged, pouring himself into the task at hand.

Once the biscuits were baked to golden perfection and had cooled slightly, he picked one up, extending it toward her with a hopeful gleam in his eyes.

“Try this, Emma. Let me know if it’s good,” he urged, his voice gentle.

“Are you free today?”

Emma tilted her head thoughtfully before replying, ‘Do you need a mental comfort session?’

Far away, Thero leaned over Drake’s shoulder, peering intently at the glowing screen.

“Mr. Smith,” Thero said with a sly grin, “did you tell Ms. Emma you’re on Central Planet now? Perhaps we should pay her a visit.”

His smile widened mischievously.

“I’ve seen the place Silas chose for her. It’s far too small. You should consider getting her something better—something grand.”

Then, his grin turned even more playful.

“Actually, invite her to the Aquadome. Let her experience the Thalassian Palace. I bet she’d fall head over heels for it.”

Thero leaned closer, his eyes gleaming with mischief as he watched Drake, who sat frozen, staring at the glowing lightcore as if it had personally offended him.

With a loud sigh, he broke the tension.

“Mr. Smith, you can’t keep doing this. Sure, you’re busy trying to conquer the entire interstellar system, but you still need a personal life.”

He smirked knowingly.

“Beast God has given you a match. A real huntress. You can’t just throw that away and end up like me—single for eternity.”

“Quiet,” Drake snapped, his tone sharp and cutting through the air like a knife. Irritation flashed across his face as he shot a glance at Thero. The man was relentless.

Turning back to his lightcore, he re-read Emma’s message, his fingers hovering over the keyboard as he prepared to type his reply.