Shinji Matou at Your Service-Chapter 1010: What’s Going On? Brother Dearest

The trope of a hero saving a damsel in distress, followed by the damsel offering herself to the hero, has been a timeless narrative in literature and related creative works. No matter how the plot twists and turns to make the story more dramatic, the core remains unchanged.

Many people, whether male or female, in their youth, have fantasized about being the protagonist in such stories—dreaming of being the shining savior or the one saved, admired by all.

But as they grow up, these fantasies gradually fade away. The phrase hero saving the beauty seems simple, but in reality, it has a very high threshold—only a hero can save someone, and the one being saved must be beautiful for the story to feel fitting.

If not... well, the hero might still save someone, but the part where the damsel offers herself in return? That's less certain. If you're not a hero, she may not offer herself; if she's not beautiful, even if she does, the hero may not want her. It's the same logic behind fairy tales where the prince always marries the beautiful princess.

Shinji understood this principle long ago, so after a brief moment of confusion, he quickly came to terms with reality.

Is Luvia a beauty? Undoubtedly. Even in the Clock Tower, where the standard for female beauty is generally high, Luvia is a stunning flower, attracting the attention of many men. In the El-Melloi classroom alone, Shinji had witnessed more than once someone asking Luvia's old acquaintance, Flat, for information about her.

But the question is: Is Shinji a hero? That's harder to answer. For those who've experienced tragedy and lived sheltered lives, like Sakura, Fujino, and Kirie, Shinji is undoubtedly their hero, rescuing them from their suffering. But for someone like Luvia, who comes from a prestigious family and has had an elite education, Shinji is far from the standard of a hero.

Two instances of helping her out—no, to be precise, neither instance was really about saving her, just offering some assistance—and expecting her to offer herself in return? Let's just say—it's still broad daylight, and the weather is chilly outside, so it's best not to daydream.

Therefore, Shinji's heart remained completely calm.

Of course, he didn't rush to correct her either. Having someone as beautiful as Luvia clings to his arm was quite enjoyable, especially since her figure was just as impressive as Arcueid's.

While Shinji was silently enjoying this, someone else couldn't stand it—Rin.

The red-clad girl let out an exaggerated laugh and mocked, "Dating, finding a boyfriend—this isn't how it works. Even someone like me, with no experience in relationships, knows that. This isn't about cultural customs anymore, it's about basic common sense."

The blue-clad girl knew her actions were inappropriate, but she wasn't about to lose face in front of her rival. She stubbornly defended herself.

"Sh-shut up! Of course, I know that, but all romantic relationships have a beginning, and this is mine. At least I have a beginning, which is more than I can say for you."

"Well, I think this beginning won't last long. Your first romance is bound to fail."

"Whether I fail or not is none of your business. Or... are you waiting for me to fail so you can swoop in and chase after him yourself? That would fit the Tohsaka family's usual tradition."

In one swift move, Luvia hit two of Rin's weak spots, causing her twin tails to practically defy gravity.

"Me, like him? Are you kidding? He's my enemy! How could I possibly like him?"

"Oh, you don't like him? Great, then from now on, it's just between me and him."

Luvia deliberately patted her chest and let out a sigh, creating a noticeable ripple as she continued to provoke Rin.

"So, Shinji, we're friends now, right? Aren't you going to invite me over to your house? I've never officially visited a Japanese magus' household... And besides, I'd like to meet your family, as your future girlfriend."

What the heck? Are you serious right now? You're playing with fire, you know that, right? Be careful, or I might... might... well, okay, I guess I can't do anything.

Shinji clicked his tongue in frustration. He was already dealing with the fallout from the situation with Artoria, and now Luvia was getting involved. At this rate, life was going to be impossible.

Having her over as a guest wasn't out of the question, but it had to be as an ally, officially invited. As for a future girlfriend, that was off the table—he already had a legitimate girlfriend.

With this decision made, Shinji subtly adjusted his arm, preparing to cool down Luvia's enthusiasm. But before he could do anything, a metaphorical bucket of cold water was dumped over his head.

"And what's this about a future girlfriend? Care to explain, brother dearest?"

The voice, sweet yet carrying an undercurrent of tension, was both polite and filled with pressure. This was Sakura's signature tone—especially when she was on the verge of slipping into a darker mood.

When she called him Dearest Brother instead of just Brother, it was a clear sign of how angry she was.

Oh no, why is Sakura here? This is bad—am I about to meet my end before I even accomplish anything?

Shinji shuddered, turning awkwardly to face his sister. Sure enough, there she was, smiling sweetly, her piercing gaze fixed on the arm that Luvia was holding. Hurriedly, he pulled his arm free and forced a laugh. "S-Sakura-chan, what are you doing here? Weren't you out shopping?"

"I just finished. Then I heard... that brother dearest was here, so I was worried something might have happened to you..."

"Hahaha, what could happen to someone as skilled as me?"

"Yes, you're right. I was being naive. After all, my brother is so skilled, especially when it comes to dealing with women... Aren't you going to introduce me to this young lady?"

Sakura maintained her smile as she turned her gaze toward Luvia, who responded with perfect social etiquette.

"Luvia Edelfelt. You can just call me Luvia. Nice to meet you. You must be Shinji's sister."

"Nice to meet you. I'm Sakura Matou."

Even in this state, Sakura's manners were impeccable.

"May I ask what your relationship with my brother is, and the reason for your visit this time?"

This chapter is updated by freēwēbnovel.com.

Before Sakura could finish her question, Rin had already rushed over and hugged her.

"Wahhh, Sakura, your brother and that woman bullied me! Look at my clothes... wahhh...!"

And this is why they're arch-rivals. Just as Luvia had thought to use Shinji to get at Rin, Rin naturally knew how to use Sakura to target Shinji. She didn't hesitate to play the victim.

Under normal circumstances, Sakura wouldn't have believed it. After all, she'd known her sister for years and was well aware of her personality. She could easily tell when Rin was faking it.

But Rin did look genuinely pitiful, and the torn clothes weren't fake. Plus, there was this beautiful woman, who had suddenly appeared and was acting all close to her brother while claiming to be his future girlfriend.

So, Sakura didn't call her sister out on her act. Instead, she played along and turned her gaze toward Shinji.

"What exactly is going on here, brother dearest?"