Nine Hot Therians and Their Only One Queen novel Chapter 6

**Chapter 6: Sensible Enough to Know When to Back Off – Part 1**

Emma’s instincts had proven correct; the other party was intent on severing their agreement.

She didn’t put up a fight. After all, in a world teeming with eligible men, losing one was hardly a tragedy for her.

Yet, when opportunity knocks, it’s unwise to slam the door shut.

Reclining in her chair, she maintained a composed demeanor. “Since you mentioned I could set my own terms,” she said with a playful lilt in her voice, “I think I’ll take you up on that offer.”

Adam regarded her calmly, his expression unreadable. “Go ahead. As long as your demands aren’t outrageous and within Mr. Auris’ financial reach, we can make it happen.”

Emma had no clear idea of the extent of their wealth, but anyone who employed a personal assistant likely had deep pockets. She paused, contemplating her options carefully. After a moment’s thought, she hesitated slightly before stating, “I want eight Level 5 beast cores, plus 1 million star coins.”

To put it into perspective, a single Level 5 beast core was valued at 500,000 star coins. So, eight cores along with that million would total a staggering 5 million.

In her five years navigating the interstellar landscape, Emma had managed to save just over 3 million star coins. What she was asking for was practically highway robbery. Deep down, she wasn’t entirely sure they would accept her request, but if they declined, she could always negotiate downwards.

Yet, as soon as the words escaped her lips, her heart raced uncontrollably. She forced herself to maintain her composure, fixing her gaze on Adam with a steadiness she didn’t quite feel.

But Adam’s brow furrowed, and his eyes glinted with a sharp intensity that made her stomach flip.

Had she been too greedy?

She opened her mouth, ready to retract her request. “If that’s too much, I can—”

“Fifty Level 5 beast cores and 5 million star coins. Ms. Emma Tibarn, you must promise—no take-backs.”

Emma was taken aback, her mind racing. Did she just hear him correctly? Had he raised the stakes himself?

Before she could fully process what was happening, Adam swiftly produced 50 beast cores from his storage band, linked her Lightcore ID, and transferred the 5 million star coins directly into her account.

“The deal is sealed. Now, can you initiate the dissolution of the match?” Adam asked, his tone urgent, as if he feared she might change her mind.

In a matter of moments, she had transformed from a state of comfortable stability to one of immense wealth. Just like that—30 million star coins richer. What a windfall!

If only she could encounter more matches like this… She would be set for life. It felt like cashing in without lifting a finger.

With her hands clasped together, she fervently prayed to the Beast God, “Oh merciful and glorious Beast God, please bless me with more generous matches like this!”

Clutching the 50 shimmering beast cores, she was too exhilarated to even consider sleep. Instead, she made a beeline for the training room. With those beast cores in her possession, she could stabilize her abilities immediately.

Sweet heavens—it felt exhilarating.

Meanwhile, in the hospital, Kael listened intently as Adam reported back to him.

“It appears that Ms. Emma Tibarn is wise enough to know when to step back. Since she has already applied to dissolve the match, we can leave her be. Our focus should now shift to locating the female who saved my life.”

Adam bowed his head respectfully. “Rest assured, Mr. Auris. The hospital’s surveillance system is almost operational again. Once we identify the woman who brought you here, tracking her down will be a straightforward task.”