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“Okai Prison is a place where humans and beings from Takamagahara and Yomi are imprisoned for crimes like plundering, debauchery, deceit, and other evils across the three realms. However, this prison is quite unique. Though it offers limited resources, there is no external suffering. The inmates are left inside to fight and kill each other—a cruel punishment in and of itself,” Rakshasa-Onna explained.
“We have obtained entry tokens for Okai Prison, and each of you will receive one. This time, the trial is simple—survive for a month and kill as many incarcerated criminals as possible. These are irredeemable criminals, yet the heavens offer them a small chance: if they survive a hundred years in Okai Prison, they’ll be set free. However, the killing has decreased lately, and in a few decades, too many criminals could be released, disrupting the heavenly order. That’s why you’re being sent in—to cull the evil criminals,” Rakshasa-Onna continued.
“Be warned, many of these criminals are formidable and notorious for their fondness for women, often using despicable methods. This is not a one-sided mission. You’ll be in real danger, so stay vigilant. Consider this crucial training,” Rakshasa-Onna added.
“This trial was initially scheduled for last week, but due to unforeseen delays, we’ve run out of time. Prepare to depart immediately!” Asura-Onna commanded.
“What? Right now?”
The sudden announcement left many of the hundred maidens in shock, causing an uproar among them.
Lily, however, kept her head low, remaining calm and composed.
The nature of the criminals in Okai Prison and how this trial would unfold were the least of Lily’s concerns.
With strength rivaling that of a Supreme God, surpassing most Empyrean Stage experts, and bolstered by her extraordinary durability and defenses, Lily had no fear of Okai Prison’s trials.
Neither the hundred maidens nor the other women posed a threat to Lily. Having endured the perilous ancient battlefield, she knew she could outshine them all.
She could easily keep a low profile, moving in the shadows and passing each trial one by one. In time, perhaps two years, she would inevitably emerge victorious in the competition.
But Lily didn’t have two years to spare.
Rinne remained trapped in her slumber, and Lily couldn’t ensure her sisters’ safety while they were apart! She couldn’t afford to waste any more time here!
“I have to leave Yomi as soon as possible, reunite with my sisters, and head to Takamagahara!”
Where one falls, one must rise.
“I owe Tsukuyomi no Mikoto a great debt, having inherited her vital legacy. I need to uncover what truly happened in Takamagahara!”
“Whether it’s to avenge Tsukuyomi no Mikoto, uncover the truth behind Senior Sister’s slumber, or secure peace in the mortal realm, I must act! I can’t stay confined to this small corner of the Rakshasa Dojo!”
“Before, I lacked the strength to act freely, and rushing out would have been reckless. But now, it’s different. As long as I avoid Supreme Gods, I can explore Yomi without fear. Likewise, I can investigate Takamagahara and uncover its secrets!”
“I must go to Takamagahara! I must bring this Night Parade of One Hundred Maidens competition to an end as soon as possible.”
Lily’s chest heaved as she firmed her resolve, while the other hundred maidens fretted and grumbled around her.
“This trial fits perfectly into my plan!” After allowing the hundred maidens time to prepare, they were led outside the Rakshasa Dojo, where they boarded earth dragons, ready to set off.
“Renka, Isshiki,” Rakshasa-Onna called the two captains forward, “Asura-Onna and I have other matters to handle. For this mission, you two will lead the team. Ensure the safety of the hundred maidens during the journey.”
“Yes, ma’am.”
“We understand.”
Renka, momentarily caught off guard by Lily’s obedience, hesitated.
“Uh, right... Feed them properly. These earth dragons are vital to our journey. If anything goes wrong because of improper care, you'll be held accountable!” Renka snapped.
“Yes, I’ll make sure it’s done right.”
Lily’s calm compliance left Renka without room for further complaints.
Lily took the storage bag and headed to where the earth dragons rested. Hyozuhi offered to help, but Lily declined. Her goal was to enter Okai Prison with the hundred maidens quietly and without conflict. Renka’s provocations were something she could easily endure for now.
High above, thousands of meters in the sky, the Queen secretly observed Lily.
“What is Lynne doing with the earth dragons?”
“She’s carrying a bag—seems like a storage bag. She’s probably about to feed them,” Yoshiya replied.
“What? Shouldn't this task be left to those specialized in handling dragons? Why is Lynne doing it?” The Queen frowned in confusion.
Yoshiya added, “This could be problematic, Your Majesty. Earth dragons become quite ferocious while feeding, and their handling requires a specific technique. Lynne may be strong, but if she doesn’t feed them properly, it could turn dangerous.”
The Queen shook her head. “Surely you're exaggerating? Lynne withstood a casual strike from a Supreme God—how could a few earth dragons be a threat?”
“No, Your Majesty. I’m more concerned about the earth dragons themselves,” Yoshiya clarified.
The Queen's expression darkened. “This isn’t good. Renka’s leading the team this time, and she’s always had something against Lynne. She’s probably using this as an excuse to cause trouble! What can we do? I could easily control the earth dragons, but I have no idea how to feed them properly.”
“Your Majesty, our patrol teams in the Female Queendom have experience with earth dragons. I know how to feed them,” Yoshiya said.
“Really? Then go help Lynne right away. Don’t let Renka find any reason to make trouble for her!” the Queen urged anxiously.
“Yes, Your Majesty,” Yoshiya said as she prepared to descend.
“Wait,” the Queen warned, “make sure the Rakshasa Dojo members don’t see you helping Lynne.”
Yoshiya, always quick and discreet, nodded. She quietly descended, slipping behind a broken wall before softly calling out to Lily.
Lily, holding the bag, hesitated in front of the massive earth dragons. Just as she prepared to toss some food, she was startled to see Yoshiya emerge from the shadows.
“Miss Yoshiya?”
“Miss Lynne, come here,” Yoshiya beckoned.
“What are you doing here?” Lily asked, suspicious.
With a smile, Yoshiya replied, “That’s not important. Hand me the bag. Feeding earth dragons isn’t something a skilled warrior and dancer like you should be handling. I’m here to assist.”
“Eh?”