novelnext Page 209
Page 209
Faced with Utus's probing, the inchworm remained calm and responded almost casually.
Upon hearing this, Rosalie narrowed her eyes slightly, as if she had thought of something.
She remembered receiving a "divination" from Dr. Fran at the Mirror of Enlightenment Club. At the time, the doctor seemed to be wearing the silk robes that symbolized a high-ranking priest of the Misty Society... In other words, that doctor probably really did enjoy a certain status within the Misty Society.
However, she did not raise any questions based on this, but simply took a sip of the fresh blood plasma presented in the cup.
Upon hearing what the inchworm said, Bartley, who was eating grilled fish, became interested.
He chewed on a piece of charred fish bone and then steered the conversation in that direction.
"What if the people you serve ask you to betray us?"
“Mr. Hunter, your question will only lead to suspicion and probably won’t get any other results. I don’t think it’s a topic worth discussing.”
"But if I absolutely have to give an answer, I will choose to respect her decision."
When faced with Bartley's question, the inchworm answered without any hesitation.
"I can rephrase that argument in a different way. If the General Affairs Division orders you to purge me, will you hesitate even for a moment when you carry it out?"
"Hey... I think not."
Bartley said crisply.
Although I don't particularly like this sophistry-loving guy, he's willing to answer his questions frankly, which can be considered honest to some extent.
Upon hearing Bartley's words, the inchworm extended its ring finger and touched its silver-rimmed square mirror.
"My attitude is the same."
The atmosphere at the ship's dinner party wasn't exactly harmonious, but it wasn't tense either. Apart from the inchworm, the other members belonged to different cults, so they didn't need to be overly wary of each other like a group of mercenaries.
While the inchworm's stance is unclear, it was nonetheless commissioned by Dr. Fran, thus possessing a degree of credibility. 9
After this routine meeting, the group returned to their respective rooms to rest.
Bartley has been almost entirely immersed in using the chainsaw sword "Sharktooth" lately. This weapon is a veritable sword-shaped meat grinder, and after being forged using the Sunforge process, it has also gained the ability to penetrate armor with high heat...
To better maintain it, the hunter supervisor even bought a professional casting maintenance guide from a craftsman. He seems to have the potential to be a part-time mechanic.
Rosalie, on the other hand, received a relic from the Marquis Jude as a reward. This haughty relic clearly harbored resentment towards its new owner, and the two were currently going through a painful adjustment period…
【S-912. The Banquet Ring】
[Source: Ancient Ruins of the Monroe Dynasty, Attilius] Part 3
[Status: Well preserved] Also
[Relic Description: This relic is shaped like a Monroe noble's anklet, worn on the ankle, made of gold, and adorned with small bells shaped like orchids and roses. The wearer can consume blood to use any second-class lower-level arcane art within the Crimson Cup system, at the cost of a short-term aversion to all forms of food.] Wu
[Maintenance Cycle: The relic may experience 'restlessness' once every three calendar months. The wearer should carry it on an empty stomach for two days to allow it to subside.]
[Note: Research indicates that this set of relics consists of three pieces. The first piece is known to be in the possession of Professor Terence Von of the White Cup History Department, and he appears to be able to unlock its potential at a deeper level.]
The inchworm, on the other hand, was organizing the weapons it had gathered from the underground market.
Among them were old-fashioned pistols discarded by the Hunters, a standard-issue dagger, and several alchemical grenades... After experiencing the Nightmare's attack, he deeply realized the importance of improving his self-defense capabilities.
"Woo——"
Smoke billowed and whistled as the steamship's steel hull cleaved through the surging black waves of the deep sea. It would still be roughly two days' journey to the port of the fallen city of Morion.
-
Modwell, train platform.
Detrick stepped off the train and stretched her back with a touch of languor.
If the First Habitat Full Moon auction hadn't been held in Mordway, she probably wouldn't have had the chance to visit the capital, Golmouth, for another ten years. Steam train tickets weren't cheap, and even with the payment from Dr. Fran, she couldn't afford to splurge…
Forced by the necessities of life, Detricka has always been accustomed to frugality, even deliberating for a long time whether or not to add eggs to her daily breakfast toast.
In fact, she even considered taking a carriage or joining a freight caravan to Mordway, which would save her some money... but the journey would be greatly extended, and she probably wouldn't be able to arrive before the full moon.
In fact, law enforcement has been conducting unusually strict checks on the platform these past few days. Filling out passenger forms took a long time, and verifying identities took even more time.
She could sense that the Star Chasers who were assisting with the patrol were staring at everyone so intently that their eyes were practically popping out of their sockets.
What exactly happened to Mordway? Why are these guys from Xingyuan Academy acting like they've taken a shot of gunpowder? Urgent, tense, and with a hint of barely perceptible annoyance.
The last time they showed this expression was when Morion was struck by natural disaster and completely fell.
Although it was just some inexplicable premonition, Derica had a strange feeling that this might be related to Lady Vivian. However, she was probably just overthinking it, since her target was the Six-Eyed Raven Order, and it shouldn't involve the Star Abyss Society.
Judging from that lady's meticulous way of doing things, she is a cautious person and should not have the time to cause such unnecessary trouble.
"Hmm... As expected of the capital, there are 'business opportunities' everywhere."
Looking at the crowds hurrying along the platform, almost completely unguarded, Detrick couldn't help but sigh.
She is currently in better financial condition than ever before, and is on Ms. Vivian's behalf to minimize any unforeseen complications and prevent being caught by the police.
Otherwise, I really want to weigh the wallets of Mr. and Mrs. Mordwell...
After some time, Detrica located their temporary base in Mordway using the Six-Eyed Raven's secret order and token. It was a tavern on the outskirts of the city, and their meeting place was in a dark room behind the tavern.
But contrary to her expectations, the base located in the bustling capital was much smaller than Foy's, and there was a strange sense of desolation in the air around it.
The members are not only few in number, but most of them are also in a hurry, as if they are being chased by some kind of urgency.
As it happened, the high priest of Ash Scars was presiding over affairs at the temporary stronghold. After a moment's thought, Detrica cautiously stepped forward to inquire.
"Um, Mr. Gray Mark... what happened in the Order? Why are there only a few people here, and everyone looks a bit nervous?"
Upon seeing Detrick arrive, Gray Scar, who was busy with his work, put down his work and began to explain with some annoyance.
Something big is happening soon.
"Detrica, normally, given your rank, I shouldn't be telling you these things. But since you've gained the favor of the Hermit Lady... perhaps you possess some unknown talent. There's no confidentiality agreement for this, so I'll tell you now."
Lin's gaze held some worry, and after a moment of deliberation, he began to speak slowly and deliberately.
It seems that "a major case has occurred at the Sleeping Sand Bell Tower of the Star Abyss Society. Although they have not revealed what exactly was stolen, judging from the almost frenzied attitude of the Listening Tide people... it must be something extraordinary and extremely important."
“Even during the perilous period when Morion was captured, they did not conduct such a rigorous manhunt.”
Upon hearing Graymark's explanation, Detrica slowed her breathing slightly, and her expression became somewhat solemn.
"So... Xingyuan Society suspects that we did this?"
Although the Six-Eyed Raven has always enjoyed a good reputation in the "trading" business, if any valuable items are stolen... it will still be the first suspect.
In most cases, the facts will prove that the other party was not wrong in their suspicions.
This time, however, Grayskin shook his head, a rare hint of confusion showing in his dark eyes hidden beneath the mask.
"First of all, this case really has nothing to do with us. Secondly, the Star Abyss Society did not suspect us... They even sent us a warning with some kind of 'good intention'."
"According to information provided by the Star Abyss Society, the thief who committed the shocking crime at the Sleeping Sand Bell Tower left a letter saying that he will come to find us during the full moon this month and take away one of our 'hidden treasures'."
His tone was quite complex as he said this.
If the thief had only stolen from the Star Abyss Academy, he would undoubtedly hold it in high esteem. The Sleeping Sand Bell Tower is equipped with layers upon layers of guards and protective rituals. Retrieving hidden items without leaving a trace would be extremely difficult.
That person even dared to leave a letter, which was extremely arrogant.
But the current situation is that the Six-Eyed Raven Cult is the thief's next target. Both sides are in the same trade, and if the other side succeeds easily, they'll lose face big time...
"Based on the letter rubbings provided by the Star Abyss Society, we have learned that the person's name is 'Vivian'. As for her identity... she may be the mysterious 'Secret Minister' of the Hunters. Of course, the latter is just speculation."
Before Grayscar could finish speaking, Detricka felt a tremendous shock surge through her heart, like a raging storm.
She forced herself to remain calm so as not to show any unnatural expression or cry out in surprise.
Was the perpetrator at the Sleeping Sand Bell Tower Ms. Vivian? And could she be the "Secret Secretary" of the Secret Service?
Derica suppressed her slightly trembling fingers, took out her water bottle and took a sip to try and hide her astonishment.
"Should we still hold this month's full moon auction as scheduled?"
"Of course we should do it."
The gray marks on his face were neatly wiped away. (Si)
"To be honest, I'm really curious how she managed to take our treasure under the watchful eyes of several Raven Feather High Priests. If she truly possesses such exceptional skill, then we can only admit our inferiority." (Bell)
"However, that's not the main reason... The Star Abyss Society offered to assist with patrols, and Mr. 'Lost Eyes' has already agreed. The Full Moon Auction was actually a trap set for her."
As he spoke, Gray Mark rubbed his eyes wearily. (Part Three)
He had been so busy preparing for the relocation of the stronghold and some deployment matters that he hadn't slept for days, and simply didn't have the energy to pay attention to everyone. Therefore, he didn't notice Detrick's slight unease.
However, he still gave one last piece of advice. 6
"Remember not to cause trouble in Mordway this month. If you do, make sure you don't get caught. The law enforcement officers of Lingchao and Wangting are not very mentally sound; we can hardly get anyone out of jail."
"...I understand. Thank you for your advice, Mr. Gray Mark."
Detrika obediently agreed.
As she left the cult's stronghold, a strong sense of unreality still lingered in her mind, to the point that her steps were somewhat unsteady.
To think that a target he randomly chose aboard the Leviathan would turn out to be the "Secret Secretary" of the Hunter's Order... What utter misfortune...
But in the end, I became Ms. Vivian's informant and received a substantial reward. Perhaps, this was actually a stroke of luck?
"What are you thinking about?"
Just as Detricka was lost in her thoughts, she heard a familiar voice in her ear.
Looking up and following the sound, one sees "Vivian" nestled in the dim shadows of a dark alley.
Her figure, dressed in a doctor's coat, was hidden in the dim light, surrounded by wisps of mist, as if she had been standing there for a long time.
“Ah, Ms. Vivian… I, I’m wondering where I’ll stay tonight.”
Detrick spoke very softly, as if afraid of having outsiders hear her name.
In fact, she herself didn't know why she brought it up.
However, her thoughts became somewhat confused due to Fran's sudden appearance, and she was almost in a state of saying whatever came to mind.
"Oh, what a coincidence... My clinic branch is currently under renovation. If you don't mind, you can come and help out. I can vacate a room for you to stay temporarily, okay?"
Fran rubbed his palms, his amber eyes filled with a hint of inexplicable anticipation.
-
-
Soup~
Chapter 102 The Mystery of the Mixed Race
On May 15th, the full moon has arrived: —司∥〓刢＼4▲＠san啎▲◎!四索索∧:至.
The full moon lasts for two days, and the Six-Eyed Raven Order's Full Moon Auction also lasts for two days. The first day mainly auctions some common items that are not particularly important, while the truly valuable treasures... will be reserved for the second day.
Therefore, Fran also plans to wait until the 16th to take action, and today he can go to Oak Shadow Nest to do some simple external observations.
However, before setting off... she had to follow her professional habits and give Detrick a routine medical check-up.
In fact, what initially caught her attention about this child was some of his special characteristics.
This has nothing to do with family background or bloodline; people in Golmouth, about 20 percent of the population, possess similar characteristics. In the capital, Mordway, the proportion is even higher.
This was the special "aura" that Haida had previously sensed on the commercial street. Even Fran couldn't perceive its true nature with just his spiritual sense; he had to cut open the flesh and examine it carefully.
"Ms. Vivian, is this medical check-up really necessary? Actually, I feel that my body is quite healthy..."
Lying on the clinic's nursing bed, Detricka felt inexplicably uneasy after being changed into a hospital gown.
She initially thought that Ms. Vivian's fondness for wearing this doctor's coat was probably due to some personal interest. Or perhaps, it was part of one of her disguised identities...
But upon seeing the clinic standing in the fog, and glimpsing countless strange, unrecognizable instruments... she realized that the person before her might be a real doctor, not just someone in a role.
Fran offered only gentle words of reassurance, and then lightly lifted his fingertips to put on white rubber gloves.
"To be a qualified informant, one must be in good health. My skills are far superior to those of the quacks in Gormouth, so there's no need to worry."
"Hmm~ Detricka, I can tell that your early life was very difficult and you suffered a lot. Although your diet has improved slightly in recent years, the effects of childhood malnutrition are still visible."
As she spoke, she poked the skin between Detrick's ribs.
"There are also some... abnormal traces left behind."
Although Miss Thief 1's skin is a healthy wheat color and her muscles show some signs of exercise, one can vaguely see scars left from her childhood. They look like marks from a metal rod or a whip.