The group left the Hidden Demon Ruins at dawn, six beauties now walking confidently beside Walter. The Harmony Jade Pendant hung around his neck, pulsing gently with multi-colored light and strengthening all their bonds.
Walter felt unstoppable at Foundation Establishment Stage 2. The quintuple—no, sextuple—bond made every step feel lighter.
Sylvara walked on his left, cool and composed. "The Floating Sky Academy is one of the top powers in the region. Many proud geniuses study there. It won't be as easy as the Azure Phoenix Sect."
Vespera stayed close on his right, her gentle aura soothing everyone. "I'll keep us all healthy during the journey."
Thalira swung her sword playfully. "Good. I'm bored of weak opponents. Bring on the real challenges."
Calyria checked her storage ring full of newly refined pills. "My alchemy has improved greatly. I can make stronger recovery and cultivation pills now."
Nyxara stuck to Walter's side like glue, her crimson-streaked hair swaying. "Anyone who looks at Master the wrong way will taste my flames."
Lunara floated gracefully beside them, her silver-gold hair and delicate horns glowing softly. "My spirit phoenix abilities can sense hidden dangers ahead. The road to the academy passes through the Whispering Forest. It is known for bandit groups and spirit beasts."
Walter nodded. "Stay alert. The system says bigger opportunities—and bigger beauties—await at the academy."
They traveled for two days without major trouble. The bonds deepened further through nightly group cultivation sessions. The Shared Pleasure Link allowed all six girls to feel faint echoes of pleasure whenever Walter cultivated with one of them, making the entire harem stronger together.
On the third day, they entered the Whispering Forest. Tall ancient trees blocked most sunlight, creating an eerie atmosphere.
Suddenly, loud laughter echoed ahead. A group of twenty bandits blocked the narrow path. Their leader, a burly man at Foundation Establishment Stage 3, grinned with yellow teeth.
"Well, well! Look at this pretty procession. Six beautiful women and one lucky brat. Hand over the girls and your storage treasures, and we might let you live."
Thalira cracked her knuckles. "Finally. Real entertainment."
Nyxara's eyes glowed with yandere intensity. "They dared threaten what is mine? Burn them."
Walter raised a hand. "Let's make this quick. Show them the power of our harem."
The fight exploded instantly.
Sylvara froze the ground beneath the bandits with her ice. Thalira charged in with blazing sword strikes. Nyxara unleashed crimson demonic flames that incinerated several men at once. Calyria tossed explosive pills that burst in green fire. Vespera supported everyone with healing waves, keeping their qi topped up. Lunara summoned soft rainbow spirit barriers that protected the group while amplifying their attacks.
Walter stood at the center, channeling the full sextuple bond. He unleashed Harmony Flame Strike, a multicolored beam that cut through the bandit leader like butter.
The entire fight lasted less than five minutes. The bandits were either dead, frozen, or fleeing in terror.
Walter absorbed their cores and treasures, adding small boosts to the group's resources.
"Excellent teamwork," he said, smiling at his women. "This is what the bonds were made for."
Lunara's rainbow eyes sparkled. "Your leadership feels… harmonious. I am glad I joined you."
As they continued through the forest, the system suddenly chimed with urgency.
[New Side Mission Activated]
[Encounter incoming: Seventh harem member nearby]
[Target: Proud Sword Saintess from the Floating Sky Academy – currently in danger]
Moments later, sounds of battle echoed from a clearing ahead.
A beautiful young woman in white and gold robes fought desperately against a pack of peak Foundation Establishment spirit wolves. Her long jet-black hair whipped around her as she swung a glowing spirit sword. She was clearly exhausted, but her technique was elegant and powerful.
She was Seraphina Bladeheart, the top sword genius of the Floating Sky Academy's inner court. Known for her cold, untouchable pride and unmatched sword talent.
One wolf lunged at her back while she was distracted by two others.
Walter moved instantly. "Help her!"
The group sprang into action. Sylvara froze the attacking wolf mid-air. Thalira and Nyxara burned the rest. Vespera sent healing energy toward Seraphina while Calyria tossed a recovery pill. Lunara created a rainbow barrier to shield her.
Walter appeared beside Seraphina in a flash and finished the last wolf with a clean Crimson Demon Flame Slash.
Seraphina lowered her sword, breathing hard, and stared at Walter with sharp, icy-blue eyes. Sweat glistened on her flawless skin. Her white robes were torn in places, revealing hints of smooth, toned curves.
"You… saved me," she said coldly, though surprise flickered in her voice. "Who are you? And why travel with so many women?"
Walter offered her a confident smile. "Walter Cooper. We're heading to the Floating Sky Academy. You look like you could use some help—and perhaps a better way to grow stronger."
Seraphina straightened, pride returning quickly. "I am Seraphina Bladeheart, Sword Saintess of the academy. I don't need charity. But… your power is unusual. That multi-colored energy… what is it?"
The system flashed excitedly.
[High Potential Target: Seraphina Bladeheart]
[Special Physique: Pure Sword Heart Body]
[Bonding Reward: Supreme sword techniques + sharp offensive boost for the entire harem]
The goddess whispered seductively. "She's proud and pure. Break through her ice with dominance and care. She will be a powerful addition."
Walter stepped closer, voice low but firm. "My power comes from deep bonds. Bonds that make everyone stronger. Join me tonight at our camp, and I'll show you how much stronger you can become."
Seraphina's cheeks flushed slightly, but she kept her cold expression. "You are very direct. Fine. I will come… but only to see if your words have any weight."
She sheathed her sword and followed the group as they set up camp for the night.
The other six girls watched the new arrival with mixed curiosity and acceptance. The harem was about to grow once more.
Walter looked at Seraphina's proud figure and smiled inwardly.
The road to the Floating Sky Academy had just become much more interesting.