Chapter 111: Shadows of Regression

After a long, in-depth conversation that lasted well into the night, the two decided to reach a neat compromise. The very next day, Lara and Karlahee arrived at a psychological treatment center where hypnosis was part of the therapy.

“You’ve been under a lot of stress lately, haven’t you? Most of our patients come here because stress triggers vivid past-life dreams. These dreams often represent a deep desire to revisit the past or are sudden responses to encounters with someone from a previous life.”

The expert continued the consultation. Seated quietly next to Lara, Karlahee listened intently before speaking cautiously.

“So, are there any major side effects? Like memory confusion or something…?”

“The only significant side effect is regression. Many fail to receive timely treatment and end up regressing, and there’s nothing we can do about that.”

“Oh, I thought only the main characters could regress… It seems everyone does.”

Muttering under her breath about stress-induced regression, Lara was momentarily taken aback by the unfamiliar technical term. However, the sharp-eared expert quickly caught on and continued explaining.

“It’s not that rare. Those who carry unresolved attachments to the past, or who wish they could change it, or even those dissatisfied with their present, tend to regress. Of course, with concentrated and specialized treatment from us, you can avoid regression and, more importantly, enjoy life in the present.”

After that clear explanation, the expert presented a menu booklet listing Package A, Package B, and Package C. Lara, sounding as if she’d already made her decision, replied calmly.

“I’ll go with the premium special package. We’ll cover the costs.”

Karlahee then produced a check embossed with an imperial seal. Indeed, nothing beats money when it comes to compensation.

* * *

A cheerful chime echoed throughout the room. The woman hastily set her coffee aside next to her laptop. On her brightly lit phone screen, the four characters “Manager” were displayed.

A slight tremor passed through her fingertips. Even though she was the creator of worlds and known as the Supreme Deity, in front of the manager she was no more than a fragile human. With deliberate care, she swiped the phone’s screen to answer, and the manager’s voice flowed through.

“Hello, Writer. Are you available for a call now?”

“Hello. Yes, yes… I’m fine.”

“I just reviewed the final draft you sent. It seems that the original female leads, Elina, are no longer paired with the male leads; instead, some extra character is linked with the tyrannical male lead.”

“Ah, about that… I wanted to show a fresh perspective — that happiness and success in life aren’t solely dependent on romance and marriage, even for women.”

“But wouldn’t that mean it’s no longer a romance?”

When her well-prepared excuse fell flat, her throat tightened. The Supreme Deity pressed her dry lips together in a vain attempt to save the situation.

“B-but what if Extra Youngae Lara and Emperor Karlahee fall in love instead…?”

“Then it seems the extra character, Youngae Lara, becomes the female lead.”

“Ah… Yes, precisely. Which brings me to another point…”

The Supreme Deity quickly shifted gears as a brilliant idea flashed through her mind.

“How about we change the title from ‘Elina’s Five Men’ to ‘The Essence of Romance’?”

* * *

“Recently, on the hit variety show ‘I Go Alone’, one of the most popular celebrities made an appearance. With charm to spare and stunning looks, we welcome Elina I to the stage! Please give her a warm round of applause!”

In response to the MC’s exclamation, the audience erupted into applause. On a brightly lit stage with only two seats placed, a woman gracefully walked in. Her long, flowing silver hair, high-heeled shoes, and a smart suit accentuated by a deep blue coat made an unforgettable impression.

“Wow, you look absolutely stunning in that suit. Seeing you in person is truly breathtaking!”

“You’re too kind, and thank you for having me today.”

The surprise talk show, held every Thursday night at the Capital Opera House, was an exclusive event without which only renowned celebrities could appear. Elina I casually swept her hair back and smiled softly. Her emerald earrings caught the spotlight, glimmering in blue—a moment destined to become legendary.

“I can hardly meet your gaze right now. I hear you were already famous before your debut, coming from a well-known affluent family…”

“Not exactly from a silver-spoon family. My father is a duke. He’s always been so frugal that I’ve never indulged in extravagance.”

“I see. That humble side of you shone through on ‘I Go Alone’, endearing you even more to the viewers.”

In fact, Elina I’s candid public appearances had skyrocketed her popularity.

Whether it was the scene where she handed a coin to a destitute boy on the street, calmly defusing a confrontation with local thugs in a back alley, or tenderly caring for a fallen stranger, these genuine moments endeared her to the audience.

“You truly possess remarkable character—not only in your illustrious family but also known as the former fiancée of the late Emperor.”

“Yes, I wasn’t aware at the time since it was arranged by my family, but I appreciated the attention I received.”

To preempt any circulating rumors, Elina I made it clear that she and her ex-fiancé had fully parted ways. With a gentle smile directed at the audience, the MC fired off the next question.

“I heard you were recently cast as the lead in a play adapted from a famous romance novel?”

“Yes, it’s set to debut next January. The play is titled ‘The Beautiful Duchess’, and I’m truly honored to play the lead in such a renowned work. While it’s a heavy responsibility, I’m determined to give it my all. I hope many of you will come watch.”

Impressed by her smooth and confident remarks, the MC smiled in satisfaction and piled on another question.

“Actually, isn’t there a character in ‘The Beautiful Duchess’ who shares your name?”

“Yes, I used to know D Chess personally. I’m grateful that he included my name in his work.”

“Ah, Elina I, you really do have an extensive network.”

The beautiful, humble, and kind Elina I was nothing short of a perfect celebrity. Although early rumors tried to tarnish her image, far more positive stories prevailed.

There was talk of a friend whose older sister was her stylist; once she complimented a sponsored outfit, only for the same design to appear as a gift the next day. Others mentioned how the broadcasting station praised her kindness and how an academy mate recalled her impeccable, earnest school life.

Today, as one of the nation’s most beloved celebrities, she had firmly established her place in the industry.

“May I ask what your ideal type or views on marriage are? It seems someone as remarkable as you would only choose a truly extraordinary partner.”

“I do like love and marriage, but when I decided to enter this industry, I opted not to focus on just one partner. I find greater joy in receiving love from many, and I believe it’s my duty to reciprocate that affection.”

Elina I’s sincere response was met with thunderous applause from the fans.

“Unfortunately, it looks like we’re coming to the end of our talk show. How did you enjoy the show today?”

“It was a delight. Connecting with the fans was the best part.”

“Yes, we’ll continue to support you, Elina I! Thank you so much for being here tonight!”

After the talk show wrapped up successfully, a few weeks later Elina I received an exclusive modeling offer. The company that extended the love call was a popular health and wellness brand known as Black Brand, adored by people of all ages, especially young women.

Before finalizing the modeling contract, Elina I arranged to have a serious discussion with the company’s representative. On the day of the meeting, when she arrived at the designated location, she was surprised to find someone she knew waiting for her.

“Nice to see you. You remember me, don’t you?”

“You are…”

Elina I stared at the man seated in the middle of a large room, dressed in a suit. With his long, jet-black hair tied back in one knot and his red eyes softly curving, he exuded an aura that was at once intimidating yet businesslike. He motioned for her to sit.

“Long time no see.”

“Pereus, I’m truly amazed. I never expected that from the Demon King Male Lead you’d become a successful company representative. It’s incredible.”

“Haha, thank you for the compliment.”

In what felt like the blink of an eye, his life had taken a dramatic turn. With health issues piling on after a change of residence, he had left Demon King Castle with the money he had saved. He then moved far from his hometown to the surface, taking on odd jobs and living in a tiny rented room.

Without dreams, hope, or love, he endured each day in a desolate routine. Then, one cold winter day, while stepping out to buy a dropped packet of ramen, he spotted fish-shaped street snacks that sparked an idea.

Incredibly, it took only one year for his humble street-side venture—selling charcoal-fried fish-shaped pastries—to blossom into a successful startup.

With his dedication and the ingenious idea of transforming his concept into a respectable enterprise, Black Brand emerged as an ethical, community-driven company. Now, even eyeing international markets, Pereus clasped his hands together and extended a nod toward the seated Elina I.