Diary of Guarding Monster Girls

Ophidia is really flustered right now.

She feels like Herbert might do something really offensive and blasphemous!

Even though Herbert is generally seen as a model Paladin, known for his high morals, he would never do such a thing.

But, based on her understanding of him, this guy is actually quite bold in private... Yes, it’s definitely like that.

Herbert is definitely going to do it!

"But the question is... what exactly will he do?"

"No, no, no, what does he plan to do? I definitely won’t let him succeed..."

"What does he want to do by bringing me out here?"

And more importantly — how should she react?

"How should I warn him? How can I make him give up that idea?"

"If I directly say it, would it hurt his feelings too much?"

If possible, Ophidia actually doesn’t want Herbert to be hurt.

This isn’t from some unclear "love," but out of gratitude.

That’s right, Ophidia is quite grateful to Herbert.

She understands well that her decision to "resign" and venture out was largely influenced by Herbert’s encouragement.

Without Herbert pushing her, Ophidia would probably just silently brood for a while and swallow that anger on her own.

After that incident, she became this way — calm and serious, not resisting for her own opinions.

She bears the expectations of others, those heavy wishes weighing on her shoulders, not allowing her any indulgence.

But Herbert came along.

Whenever this guy is around, Ophidia manages to temporarily forget the importance on her shoulders, as if reverting to her past, sentimental, and emotional self.

This time is no different.

Only because Herbert was there to stir things up, hurry her along, did she finally take the hardest step... though snakes don’t have "steps," it’s just a metaphor!

For herself, for freedom.

Indulging selfishly once, even if it’s just this one time in her life.

Yet the problem is, indulgence aside, Ophidia isn’t some naive girl run off by a yellow-haired rogue; there are still things she won’t do!

Ophidia — inner defense mode engaged!

As they delve deeper into the Mist Mountain Range, Ophidia’s nerves also tighten, fearing Herbert might strip his clothes off any moment.

And of course, Ophidia’s worries — won’t come to pass.

The stories of "Forbidden Forest," "One Hundred Things Couples Will Definitely Do When Meeting Privately," "Forbidden Desires," those are only unlocked when mutual attraction reaches a certain level.

Herbert naturally wouldn’t start off being handsy, Ophidia thinking this way really was wronging him.

First, he isn’t some lecherous, tasteless guy.

That’s just so pointless, so undignified.

Plus, if he did try that, he’d likely get beaten up.

The risk there, indeed, is a bit too high.

The wrath of a slamming tail, only the person who gets hit knows how painful it is.

Herbert doesn’t want to get slammed.

If possible, he’d rather be the one doing the slamming.

Besides, if his mood is high, he might try pushing it, but now during a critical advancement, better not stir up trouble.

Herbert leisurely walks ahead, sensing the tense aura from behind, his lips slightly curving.

"Is there any need to be so flustered? Haven’t I been quite gentlemanly this time? Is there a need to be so wary of me?"

Xiao Chunu’s imagination is truly rich, huh!

"Really... well, let her scare herself a little longer."

Seeing Ophidia so tense, Herbert decides to be considerate and not interrupt her wild imaginings just yet.

Imagination is the strongest catalyst.

It’s all her thoughts, nothing to do with me~

And, Herbert isn’t aimlessly wandering the forest with Ophidia; the route is actually planned.

When Ophidia agreed to "elope" with him, Herbert immediately made up the corresponding plan.

He definitely wants to make this outing unforgettable, etching this memory fiercely into Ophidia’s mind.

After walking for a while longer, Herbert thinks it over and decides to amplify the situation for Ophidia.

"Ophidia."

"...Hm?"

Without turning his head, Herbert continues walking forward, suddenly saying, "Do you want to take off a layer?"

!!?

Upon hearing this, Ophidia’s first reaction isn’t anger; instead, she lets out a breath of relief, feeling like the dust has finally settled.

After a long silence, she starts to wonder, feeling the situation might not be as she imagined.

This guy really doesn’t seem to have any evil intentions this time; in fact, it’s like she herself is expecting such a thing...

No, could it be my problem?

While Ophidia is deep in self-doubt, nearly at its peak, Herbert finally speaks.

Ophidia keenly catches that critical word!

Take off?

Take off clothing?

He wants me to take all my clothes off!!?

It’s happening!

This guy finally can’t help it, he’s about to reveal his true nature!

See, I told you, he must be this kind of person.

I told you it’s not just me imagining things, but he really is that type!

Upon confirming this, Ophidia’s confidence instantly rises, her tone growing cold, she huffs.