In response to Shao Ci's incredulous gaze, the divine being before him offered a serene smile. "This form is merely a projection I use to interact with your world, so there's quite a disparity from my true essence. Don't let appearances deceive you."

Understanding dawned on Shao Ci, realizing that the divine being had distributed a fraction of its immense power to manifest in this ethereal guise. In an act of reverence, Shao Ci instinctively bowed, having learned the proper etiquette during his time in the temple.

The divine being approached and traced intricate lines on Shao Ci's forehead, uttering words of blessing. Sensing a warm sensation, Shao Ci closed his eyes, and upon reopening them, he found himself awakened from the dream.

Empowered with a newfound vigor, Shao Ci marveled at the stark contrast between his present state and the previous sensations of confinement and powerlessness. The once seemingly flawless dreamscape now appeared fragile and artificial in his eyes.

Realizing that his liberation was now attainable, Shao Ci muttered, "In that case, I can indeed leave."

The door swung open, revealing Ewings, who greeted Shao Ci with his usual demeanor. A smile adorned Ewings' face as he took Shao Ci's hand, leading him outside.

It was evident that Ewings was privy to everything transpiring within the dream world he controlled. Despite this awareness, Ewings remained nonchalant. Shao Ci couldn't help but wonder about Ewings' intentions and whether he had already formulated a plan for their encounter.

As they strolled through a garden adorned with exotic flowers, Ewings abruptly declared, "I despise humans." Shao Ci acknowledged this sentiment, given Ewings' consistent mockery. However, Ewings continued, surprising Shao Ci, "But strangely, I don't despise you."

Perplexed, Shao Ci responded with an uncertain acknowledgment. Ewings elucidated, "You, the brave I should hate the most, yet I find myself incapable of ending your existence. Despite everything, you broke free from my bindings—a remarkable feat."

Shao Ci attempted to negotiate, suggesting Ewings release him, but Ewings adamantly refused, firmly holding Shao Ci's hand. Sensing a looming confrontation, Shao Ci braced himself for what might come.

In an unexpected turn, Shao Ci found himself in a confrontation with Ewings, whose appearance had subtly altered within the dream. As the battle ensued, Shao Ci, empowered by the divine blessing, strategically exploited weaknesses in the dream world. Eventually, he overcame Ewings, pinning him down.

However, rather than continuing his assault, Shao Ci questioned Ewings about Wendel's fate, perplexed by the absence of any threats involving his friend. Ewings responded enigmatically, suggesting that he might prefer being remembered through an unconventional method—by orchestrating his own demise alongside Shao Ci's most significant person.

Confounded by Ewings' unanticipated motive, Shao Ci grappled with the realization that perhaps killing Ewings wouldn't be as straightforward as he thought.

Ewings chuckled weakly, "Hahaha... I was just joking." His expression turned serious as laughter aggravated his wounds, his face paling. "If I die, these souls will return to their bodies within you. You won't be buried with me. Rest assured."

"Why reveal this to me?" Shao Ci questioned, bewildered. "Do you truly wish to end like this?"

"It wouldn't be a bad outcome if you killed me," Ewings confessed, coughing up blood. His transparent form indicated his proximity to death. "Now, even if your attempts fail, you'll harbor hatred... No, you've always despised me. After all, I am just a monster."

Shao Ci sighed, countering, "Actually, I don't think being a monster is necessarily a bad thing."

The battle wounds inflicted by Shao Ci intensified, and as the dream space began to fracture, it became apparent that Ewings neared his demise. Shao Ci contemplated the possibility of the situation concluding peacefully.

Unexpectedly, Ewings requested, "Master Brave, can you come closer?"

With reluctance, Shao Ci obliged, only for Ewings to seize his clothing and plead for one final kiss. Despite reservations, Shao Ci leaned in, granting Ewings his request.

In a surprising turn, Ewings, on the brink of death, exerted strength, gripped Shao Ci's neck, and bit his mouth. A blend of their blood established a mysterious connection. Ewings, appearing less grotesque, revealed an unexpected twist — a contract had been formed, a magical pet contract at that.

Shao Ci found himself in disbelief, having unintentionally bound himself to a monster in a way never explored in their world. Panicking, Shao Ci realized the implications of this unequal treaty — the ability to summon Ewings at will and the potential backlash against any harmful intent.

Expressing his dismay, Shao Ci exclaimed, "What were you thinking? Suddenly entering into such a contract is no joke!"

Ewings, unfazed, embraced Shao Ci with joy, stating, "This way, we can stay together. Isn't it wonderful, Master Brave?"

Resigned to the unexpected outcome, Shao Ci reflected on the absurdity of the situation. Ewings, content with the newfound connection, expressed, "You feel good, Master Brave."

In the end, Shao Ci reluctantly accepted the reality of their peculiar bond, warning Ewings against capricious actions in the future. Ewings, in turn, reveled in the prospect of staying by Shao Ci's side.

As they contemplated their unconventional companionship, Shao Ci expressed a genuine concern, "But you must not harm humans recklessly in the future. And you can't just show yourself!"

Ewings responded playfully, "Well, it depends on you, Lord Brave. If you can provide for me."

With a sigh, Shao Ci acknowledged, "I'll do my best."

Their newfound understanding led to a seemingly happy ending, with Shao Ci planning to feed Ewings and ensure the monster's compliance with their unwritten terms. However, Ewings couldn't resist glancing at a particular building, his eyes turning cold as he contemplated a hidden truth.

In the aftermath, Ewings released those he had marked, clearing potential complications. The unusual pact between Shao Ci and Ewings marked a significant shift in their intertwined destinies.

"Is everything all right?" Shao Ci inquired cautiously, concerned about the well-being of those who were part of the dream.

Ewings reassured him, "Absolutely. I'm solely interested in you right now. Even if the souls of others are sent to me, I won't bother."

Accepting Ewings' words, Shao Ci questioned cautiously, "But you mentioned a surprise for me. What did you do?"

---

Upon awakening, Shao Ci found himself back in the ballroom, his gaze falling upon the unconscious bodies and the remnants of the banquet. The flow of time in the dream had been disorientingly disconnected from reality, leaving Shao Ci perplexed.

As people gradually regained consciousness around him, they regarded Shao Ci with profound admiration and gratitude. Their expressions mirrored fanatical devotion, resembling the gaze of devoted fans encountering their idol.

Overwhelmed by the sudden adoration, Shao Ci anxiously inquired, "What's going on? Is this the surprise Ewings mentioned?"

Individuals expressed their gratitude, pledging unwavering loyalty to Shao Ci, and some even offered peculiar promises. Perplexed, Shao Ci tried to navigate through the unexpected attention, fending off awkward proposals and expressions of devotion.

Exasperated, Shao Ci excused himself, claiming fatigue, and retreated upstairs. The intense admiration from those downstairs left him feeling uneasy and overwhelmed.

Observing the peculiar reactions, Shao Ci surmised that Ewings had woven a compelling dream for them, creating a heroic narrative where Shao Ci was the savior. The fanaticism displayed by those around him was a consequence of Ewings' manipulations.

Despite the discomfort, Shao Ci acknowledged a certain satisfaction in the contrast between being ridiculed and now being adored. The unexpected turn of events, however, brought a mixture of amusement and frustration.

As he sought refuge in his room, several knights approached, expressing remorse for their past disdain and vowing allegiance to Shao Ci. The intense reactions further solidified Shao Ci's suspicion of Ewings' involvement.

Returning to his room, Shao Ci found Wendel patiently waiting, engrossed in a book. Relief washed over Shao Ci as he realized that even the reliable Wendel had not been swayed by Ewings' influence.

Wendel, displaying genuine concern, comforted Shao Ci, acknowledging the challenges he faced. Grateful for Wendel's steadfast demeanor, Shao Ci felt reassured, temporarily relieved from the bewildering aftermath of the dream.

Shao Ci let out a sigh of relief and clasped Wendel's hand. "Those things don't matter. In essence, I'm reassured that nothing untoward occurred."

"Of course, there's nothing I can do." Wendell enveloped Shao Ci in his arms and whispered gently, "But... I feel a bit lonely seeing how many people admire you."

Shao Ci promptly responded, "We won't be separated, will we?"

Wendell paused for a moment, then smiled tenderly, extending his hand to stroke Shao Ci's hair. "No... I will always be by your side."