[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"origin-an-improper-monster-girl-s-transformation-diary":3,"chapter-an-improper-monster-girl-s-transformation-diary-an-improper-monster-girl-s-transformation-diary-chapter-439":6},{"origin":4,"title":5},"chinese","An Improper Monster Girl's Transformation Diary",{"chapter":7,"nextChapterSlug":19,"prevChapterSlug":20,"totalChapters":21,"novelImage":22},{"id":8,"novel_id":9,"title":10,"slug":11,"index":12,"content":13,"wordcount":14,"created_at":15,"updated_at":15,"volume":16,"translator":17,"content_hash":18},2312368,4517,"Chapter 439: Openness and Conservatism (6K Subscription Request)","an-improper-monster-girl-s-transformation-diary-chapter-439",439,"\u003Cp>「……」\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Under the silent gaze of the crowd, Chief Warden Charles squinted, motionless in thought.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He was deeply conflicted.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Should he let them in—or turn them away?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If he chose the latter, he had ample justification.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He was Chief Warden of Shengcheng, tasked with guarding its safety and eliminating all uncertain elements entirely.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This was Solanthis, the radiant holy city longed for by countless Sun worshippers.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This was the place closest to the mortal Sun God, a sacred ground untouchable by profanity.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In the past, even devout believers might be barred from staying long—or even entering—due to various reasons.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Now, were they to allow filthy Abyssal outsiders to enter?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The honor of Shengcheng could not bear even a single stain!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But if he chose the former, it… was also defensible.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>These two Abyssal nuns truly showed remorse—could he abandon them?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Sun God holds the authority of [Purification], and has always upheld the tradition of redeeming heretics.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Though in nearly all cases this meant complete physical purification, there were rare precedents of fallen ones converting.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If he could bring a Legendary-level fallen one back to the path, it would be a feat great enough to be recorded in the Holy Scripture, becoming one of the Church’s many legends.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Besides, their cooperative attitude was one factor; their own strength was another.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Although the Sun Church was confident in suppressing all enemies, no Legendary Stronghold should ever be underestimated.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They were extremely dangerous beings, capable of inflicting massive harm upon the world at a moment’s notice.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Since they had voluntarily shown goodwill, they ought to be treated with proper respect.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Added to this was a point others had overlooked: Herbert’s origins.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Mist Monastery.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>That was one of the few reclusive organizations the Sun Church took seriously, demanding cautious handling.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Though the Mist Monastery was obscure to the outside world—even many divine sects knew nothing of them—it seemed isolated, known only in a remote small kingdom.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But to those who truly understood, this peculiar monastery had always been a profound and mysterious organization.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Mist Monastery had a Saint!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even setting aside all others, just one Saint was enough to command universal respect.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>No one would ever underestimate such a reclusive organization.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even the Sun Church, famed for its arrogance, showed considerable respect when dealing with a Saint.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Otherwise, the earlier “polite request” for the monastery to provide battle armor would have become a “mandatory order from the Great Sun’s servant.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Among all these reasons, the Mist Monastery’s importance ranked among the top three.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The truth was this: though the Grand Archbishop claimed the monastery would not endorse Herbert’s actions or offer aid, this was merely an unspoken understanding between the two.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The rest of the world knew nothing of their agreement.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As long as Herbert did not actively conceal his origins, outsiders would see him as representing the monastery’s will.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even if he declared it, no one would believe him—they’d assume he had some hidden motive.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This was why many organizations instructed their members to lead by example and never lower their guard.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For in the outside world, a member did not merely represent personal reputation—they bore the organization’s name.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Sigh.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Chief Warden was caught in a dilemma.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Beyond objective reasons, what troubled him most was Herbert’s demeanor.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He had shown considerable trust—and confidence.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The young “angel” before him made no effort to conceal his companion’s origins; he spoke the truth openly, with no concealment.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Why was he so certain?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Was he so sure Charles would allow their entry?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Just because of those “achievements”?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Charles pondered, hesitated, his resolve weakening.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He had only recently assumed the post of Chief Warden; his foundation was still unstable. He least wanted to face unexpected incidents.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yet first he encountered the ancient legend of the “Lady of Confusion,” then this even rarer case: Abyssal cultivators requesting entry into Shengcheng.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>That such rare events should fall to him—Charles didn’t know whether his luck was good or bad.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Huh?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Suddenly, his eyes shifted, his furrowed brow slowly relaxed. Under everyone’s gaze, he exhaled gently, his entire posture easing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing this, all knew the Chief Warden had reached his decision.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>What was it?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Chief Warden nodded to Herbert—but said nothing. Instead, he turned to the waiting bishops and said gravely: “Gentlemen, what are your thoughts?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Oh?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Herbert found this unexpected turn intriguing. He raised an eyebrow, sensing something beneath.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He remained silent, like an observer, waiting quietly for what came next.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Time to watch the show.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The first to respond was an elderly bishop clad in a lavish golden robe, his face stern and cold.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He rose first, speaking in a loud, authoritative voice: “Gentlemen, the Radiant Holy City is our Lord’s sacred domain, a symbol of light and purity!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“We know little of the origins of these Abyssal impurities. The Abyss has always been a breeding ground for darkness and evil—they may carry Abyssal curses and dark energies.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“And that dragon? A powerful, wild lower creature, steeped in grave sin—it will surely corrupt others.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Their power is uncontrollable. Once inside Shengcheng, they may shatter its peace!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“In my view, such dangerous elements must not be allowed entry!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The golden-robed bishop’s stance was firm, his protest blunt.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After he finished, Herbert keenly noticed at least half the room nodded in silent agreement.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>These people held the same view—the golden-robed bishop was merely their representative.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Before Herbert could speak, another faction of bishops spoke up.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Respected Bishop Collier, I understand your concerns, but we cannot reject them solely because of their origins.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A female bishop in crimson robes stood, speaking calmly: “These two nuns, though born of the Abyss, did not choose their lineage.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“The Abyss constantly torments them, yet they chose to defy fate and hold fast to their will.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Residing in darkness, yet yearning for light—is that not worthy of encouragement?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“As for the dragon, we should welcome it—even forge a pact, turning its strength into a weapon against darkness.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Our Lord’s doctrine teaches tolerance and redemption. We must not turn away any companion.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Compared to the fiery hardliners, Bishop Evelyn’s demeanor was neither humble nor haughty.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She merely laid out the pros and cons, stating her position plainly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Immediately, Bishop Collier frowned and retorted: “Bishop Evelyn, you are too naive! Abyssal power is incalculable—how can you guarantee they are not Abyssal spies?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Letting them enter Shengcheng is like planting a seed of darkness in our garden!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“And that dragon—you saw how dangerous it was! How long will a pact truly bind it? If it goes mad, Shengcheng will suffer great losses.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His words were blunt—directly questioning Valentina’s integrity in Herbert’s presence.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yet Herbert felt no anger. He found the scene fascinating.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He realized: this wasn’t truly aimed at him or his companions. It was a pretext to attack the other faction.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This… was factional strife?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Clearly, the Sun Church harbored different cliques, constantly vying for true dominance.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Herbert and his group were merely the trigger. Any other person or incident would serve the same purpose.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Sure enough, without Herbert speaking, Bishop Evelyn simply shook her head and replied: “Bishop Collier, is our faith so fragile?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“If we dare not welcome nuns seeking light or a dragon, how can we demonstrate the greatness of the Sun God to the world?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“We have countless clergy and powerful magical defenses—can we not supervise and guide these outsiders?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Or… have you lost your confidence?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Thud!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Supervise? Guide? Bishop Evelyn, wake up! You’re gambling with Shengcheng’s safety!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bishop Collier stomped his foot, voice rising sharply: “We cannot take this risk—not even a sliver of danger is acceptable!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Thud!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bishop Evelyn stepped forward, her face calm, but her eyes now burning with anger. She raised her voice too: “My lord, wake up yourself! No gain comes without risk!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“If we remain closed off, Shengcheng will forever be confined here, unable to truly spread our Lord’s faith farther!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“This is cowardice! It shames our Lord!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Collier’s brow twisted in fury: “What did you say?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Evelyn did not reply. She merely met his gaze calmly, silently declaring her stance.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Though only two appeared to be arguing, they represented the very essence of the Sun Church’s conservative and open factions.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Collier and his allies clung to the ancient Sun God doctrine: destroy all evil.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Meanwhile, Evelyn and her group hoped the doctrine could further evolve, eliminating evil while embracing new possibilities.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>One side was conservative and radical; the other, open and inclusive.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Watching the two continue to argue, with tensions escalating, the bystander Herbert finally looked up at the Guard Captain.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Uh, why are you just standing there watching?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Aren’t you going to stop them?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Cough!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Finally, the Guard Captain cleared his throat, interrupting their quarrel, and said coolly, “Enough. Stop arguing.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I’ve already made my decision.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Guard Captain gave Herbert a slight nod and said calmly, “Herbert, I understand your request.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Since your servants have recognized their sins and are willing to atone, that is certainly commendable.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Our Lord is merciful; the Holy City will accept such lost sheep who have found their way back.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“They may enter Solanthis.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Guard Captain, who had previously hesitated, now cut through the confusion with decisive action, leaving no time for others to object or interfere—he settled the matter outright.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Without explanation, he simply ignored the disbelieving stares of some, and if anyone opened their mouth to speak, he met them with a calm gaze.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Guard Captain suppressed all dissent outright.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The matter was settled.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Who supports it? Who opposes it?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“...”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Under his overwhelming gaze, no one raised objections—not even the previously most adamant Bishop Collier lowered his head in silence.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Herbert scanned everyone’s reactions, then gave the Guard Captain a slight nod: “Thank you for your understanding and assistance.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His words carried hidden meaning.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Understanding” was straightforward—it meant gratitude for allowing Valentina and the others into the Holy City.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But “assistance,” on the surface, thanked the Guard Captain for standing against the crowd; in truth, it carried deeper intent—it thanked him for the subtle hint.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Guard Captain had made his decision before seeking others’ opinions.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This act appeared democratic and fair, but was still an exercise of power.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Why go through this charade?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Was it just to prove how open-minded he was?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>No.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Guard Captain did this to make Herbert witness firsthand the faction within the Sun Church that was hostile toward them, so Herbert would remain vigilant.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He signaled the Sun Church’s internal stance—yes, you may enter, but do not lower your guard; some will harbor hostility toward you.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Be careful. Do not provoke trouble. Do not stir up unnecessary conflict.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At the same time, the Guard Captain made his own position clear—if Herbert truly clashed with Collier and the others, he would not intervene.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He would take no side. That was the Guard Captain’s meaning.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“You need not thank me.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Guard Captain shook his head slightly, refusing Herbert’s gratitude: “Rest for now. We’ll discuss anything further tomorrow.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>With that, he cast a long look at Herbert’s Angelic Battle Armor, then nodded to Evelyn: “Evelyn, guide Herbert to meet his companions, then lead them to their quarters.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Understood.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Evelyn, expression calm, nodded to Herbert, turned, and walked toward the platform, then leapt directly off it—her body transforming midair into a colossal flame spirit, hurtling toward the city gate like a massive fireball.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was hard to imagine that calm woman choosing such a violent mode of travel—but then again, she was a follower of the Sun God, so it made sense.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Herbert smiled and bowed to the crowd, then, with a flick of his blood wings, followed her effortlessly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Compared to Evelyn’s spectacular flight, his movement was quiet and graceful, drawing glances from many residents.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Phew… succeeded.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In mid-flight, Herbert exhaled inwardly in relief.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Though outwardly calm and confident, he had been sweating inside.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>While the Guard Captain was deliberating, Herbert had caught glimpses of his thoughts—leaning toward the conservative stance of banning Valentina and the others from entering.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Fortunately, at the last moment, the Guard Captain changed his mind; the outcome, though tense, had been smooth—he’d secured entry to the Holy City.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Whatever happened along the way didn’t matter—as long as the result was good.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yet what intrigued Herbert was that, despite this outcome, neither Collier’s faction nor Evelyn’s group showed anger or joy.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Why?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Collier’s side had been overruled, yet showed no shame.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Likewise, Evelyn’s group, despite being supported, showed no excitement.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>What was the reason behind this?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Carrying this question, Herbert followed Evelyn, who had been assigned to guide him, to meet Valentina and the others.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Wait… there might be a plausible explanation…” A thought suddenly flashed through Herbert’s mind.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“If the Guard Captain is a senior figure of the conservative faction, then everything makes sense.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Everyone has personal inclinations and preferences.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If the Guard Captain himself came from the conservative faction, then even if he rejected other conservatives’ opinions, they wouldn’t find it unacceptable.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Conversely, even if he endorsed the open faction’s views, they wouldn’t feel particularly honored.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Then the question is—why did the Guard Captain change his mind at the last moment?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Herbert narrowed his eyes, recalling every detail from earlier, and suddenly caught a subtle clue he’d missed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Before making his decision, the Guard Captain’s ears had twitched slightly, and his body had instinctively shifted as if to turn.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He heard someone’s whisper!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Herbert thought this, and silently turned his head, gazing toward the tallest building in the Holy City.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“So… behind him… there’s someone else?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>…\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As Herbert had deduced, the Guard Captain’s arrangement was not his true will.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The resolve to override all opposition didn’t come from the Guard Captain suddenly standing firm—it came from a calm, gentle voice he’d heard while hesitating.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Let them in.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was the voice of the Sun Pope.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Though the Sun Pope had not appeared in person, he had been observing the situation closely all along.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was only with the Pope’s approval that the Guard Captain ultimately decided to grant entry.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>With the leader’s backing, even if trouble arose, he bore no responsibility!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Mistral Monastery… Herbert…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Guard Captain dismissed the other bishops and stood alone in the hall, pondering: “Why does the Pope hold them in such high regard? Why permit them into the Holy City?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Charles pondered for a while, then sighed helplessly and shook his head.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I hope no more incidents arise—one ‘Lost Lady’ is already enough to give me headaches…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Compared to Herbert and the monastery guests, the Lost Lady’s matter troubled him more.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Guard Captain had not deliberately mentioned the Lost Lady to Herbert.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>That was perfectly normal.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Lost Lady could be seen by only a tiny fraction of devout priests under rare circumstances; Herbert did not meet that criterion.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Moreover, this was purely the Sun Church’s internal affair—no need to inform an outsider like Herbert.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He truly didn’t believe Herbert had any connection to the Lost Lady.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“They probably won’t have any connection, right?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“...Hmm, probably not.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Guard Captain thought for a moment, then chuckled self-deprecatingly: “What am I even thinking?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“How could such a thing happen?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Hahaha!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>…\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Nenasha, did you notice?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Herbert tried to communicate with Miss Harmony, but received no response.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This time, Nenasha wasn’t pretending to be dead—she was actively hiding.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This was the Sun God’s earthly stronghold; every movement here was observed by Him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Since Herbert entered the Radiant Holy City, Nenasha had completely sealed herself off—no matter how much he called, she didn’t respond.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Don’t disturb. Offline. Leave a message.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Herbert remembered this, and couldn’t help teasing inwardly: “Oh? Aren’t you fearless? Why so cautious now?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Oh, isn’t this Nenasha?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Where’s your usual hairstyle? Why aren’t you standing up anymore?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Look at you now!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After Herbert mocked her for a while, a sudden chill ran down his back—he snapped fully alert.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shit!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Somewhere in the distance, he seemed to hear a disgruntled smack of the tongue.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>【“……Tsk!”】\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Miss Xie Shen silently expressed her displeasure—Don’t get too carried away, kid!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Cough, cough, nothing. I didn’t say anything, hmm.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>While Herbert and Nienasha communicated mentally, an unexpected change was quietly brewing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At that same moment, in another corner of Shengcheng, the phantom figure that had long ignored the outside world came to a halt.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The wandering, bewildered Lady slowly turned her head, her vague, indistinct face silently gazing in one direction.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“...Hm?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In the grand gate of Guanghui Shengcheng.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The bored dragon maid’s eyes flickered as she spotted Herbert flying toward her; her large eyes suddenly brightened.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Herbert!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She didn’t care at all about her terrifying image as the “Crimson Dragon” among some.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>What image?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Is it tasty?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Valentina bounced in place, waving excitedly at Herbert, utterly like a carefree little girl.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Hurry! Hurry! Hurry... Huh?!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Just before Herbert arrived, Valentina’s expression froze; her pupils shrank instantly as she whirled her head toward the side.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>!!?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her instinctive intuition, long dormant, sensed a great threat—a faint, cold gaze.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But when she focused hard, she felt nothing at all.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“...Was it an illusion?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>(End of Chapter)\u003C\u002Fp>",2846,"2026-06-20T12:31:07.945Z",1,"Qwen3-Next 80B","57d97fa9b29c67ab8e98a39e89cc9ed1e38671bb6bc9ca03fe9db75d5e381cf2","an-improper-monster-girl-s-transformation-diary-chapter-440","an-improper-monster-girl-s-transformation-diary-chapter-438",453,"https:\u002F\u002Fnovelzhen.com\u002Fimages\u002Fcovers\u002Fan-improper-monster-girl-s-transformation-diary-cover.jpg"]