Chapter 163

Chapter 163: The Round of the Love Saint Lynn (6k)

Staring at the magical stone powder slowly slipping from Ivyst’s palm, Lynn was at a loss for words.

Feeling his inner struggles and conflicts, Ivyst’s gaze was hazy.

Though she longed to cup his chin and kiss him right then and there, she held back the impulse deep within her.

In her previous rank, she would have been in a rush to use this footage to slander that wretched woman.

However, now that Ivyst had reached enlightenment, her rank had soared, and she naturally looked down on such lowly actions.

The highest level of strategy always lies in maintaining a sense of distance.

Only through a push-and-pull, back and forth, can a man’s heart be kept in suspense.

After all, with Lynn’s intelligence, it was impossible for him not to see the issues surrounding this recording magic stone.

While the content in the footage was real, it was clearly edited.

So it might be better to take a step back and fool him into believing it’s fake.

And with the assistance from the Liars’ Devourer, Lynn found himself doubting the miss witch, who had previously pledged loyalty and admiration for the first time.

That was enough.

As the carriage door slowly opened, Ivyst, swaying her slender waist, stepped down from the carriage.

The banquet was about to begin.

She remained somewhat wary of that woman, Cyrilina.

Late at night, at Mosgra Manor.

Witnessing her daughter Eunice hastily buried with hardly anyone to mourn, the Black Veil Noblewoman’s heart was filled with sadness and anger.

Not only directed at Lynn, the culprit behind it all, but also towards the cold-hearted members of her family.

Thus, after the funeral ended, she lingered alone in the cemetery for a while before slowly leaving.

However, instead of rushing back to Mosgra Manor, she headed to a private mansion in the lower district of Glostin.

As the largest area in the Imperial Capital, the lower district was home to a variety of middle-class citizens, ordinary folks, and various factions.

While much glitzier than the slums, it stood in stark contrast to the upscale areas where many nobles resided.

Under normal circumstances, the aristocratic Black Veil Noblewoman wouldn’t even come to a place like this, considering the air here tainted with the filth of low-class people.

However, for the sake of avenging her daughter, she had to muster the courage to take that step.

Upon returning to the mansion, the Black Veil Noblewoman immediately went to her room.

After giving the servants the order of “no interruptions,” she locked the door, then went to the window, drew the thick curtains, and extinguished all light sources in the room.

The entire space was plunged into darkness.

Moments later, several emerald green candle flames flickered to life, suddenly illuminating the ground like ghostly spirits.

They surrounded the wooden floor, arranged in a peculiar combination, symbolizing some bizarre and indescribable existence.

Around the candlesticks, blood-red lines spread out like veins, rough and fierce, branching outwards and converging towards a central offering.

Looking from above, a terrifying and furious monster’s face loomed, mouth agape as if ready to devour everything.

As she gazed at the scene before her, recalling the horrific image of her daughter Eunice’s death, a hint of resentment flickered in her eyes, and her final anxieties dissipated.

A moment later, strange and obscure murmurs echoed in the room.

It sounded like a monster roaring, or like the incoherent moans of a madman.

If there were any mystics or linguists present, they’d easily recognize the strange incantation the woman was chanting was, in fact, in the ancient demonic language.

What’s more, the blood-red matrix formed on the ground pointed to a terrifying being.

She didn’t know the being’s name.

Only that among the demons, it was referred to as the “Tyrant King.”

Of course, her status as a human made direct communication impossible.

Moreover, considering her ceremonial setup, it was somewhat simple for a divine being.

Yet what she needed didn’t require god-like power.

To kill that Bartleyon wretch, a prayer to the lesser Tyrant apostle would suffice.

After all, the powers possessed by demons were twisted and corrupt, unlike the transcendents of the Church, best suited for lurking in the dark for a sneak attack.

According to her knowledge, there was a sensational serial murder case occurring in the Imperial Capital of Glostin as we speak.

The culprit was a fourth-stage demon disguised as a human, completing an ascension trial.

However, the Black Veil Noblewoman was somewhat uncertain about whether she could successfully summon it.

After all, it was merely a method she had picked up from the black market of transcendent beings, which had never been verified.

As the ancient and obscure demonic language continued, the green candle flames wavered gently, but the room remained eerily quiet.

During this process, the Black Veil Noblewoman vaguely felt a brief evil gaze upon her, but it soon disappeared.

Her heart tightened.

Could it be a failure?

Was her offering insufficient to sway it?

A deep sorrow washed over the Black Veil Noblewoman.

Yet at this point, she could not stop midway.

For according to what the masked man from the black market had said, once the ritual began, it had to be completed successfully; otherwise, some indescribable consequences awaited her.

With that thought in mind, she slowly spoke the final step of the ritual, the wish she wished to fulfill.

“Please help me kill a human named Lynn Bartleon.”

As the words left her lips.

In the blink of an eye, a chilling and malevolent power abruptly descended, and the green candle flames on the ground surged, turning the entire room a ghostly green.

The Black Veil Noblewoman stared in terror at the scene before her, bewildered as to what was happening.

In the next moment, a humanoid bat shadow silently descended, appearing behind her.

Drool dripping foully from its mouth, it garbled human language as if attempting a poor imitation.

Yet despite that, the Black Veil Noblewoman could still discern the hidden hatred and murderous intent in its words.

“Tell me where he is.”

In stark contrast to the solemnity and coldness of the Political Discussion Hall’s awarding banquet, the atmosphere in Cyrilina’s mansion was filled with warmth and the cheerful chatter of young ladies.

This was a private masquerade ball, where most attendees were the daughters of various noble families in Glostin, with women dominating the scene.

Of course, it wasn’t all ladies.

To liven things up and offer the girls, who rarely ventured out, a chance to see the world, Cyrilina had invited several esteemed bestselling authors, musicians, and painters from high society to share their experiences and artistic philosophies.

Occasionally, exclamations of wonder rippled through the crowd.

Overall, the atmosphere was joyous.

However, the host of the evening stood rather discreetly among the crowd, her face hidden behind a mask adorned with white feathers.

Cyrilina silently observed the scenes before her, lost in thought.

Yet from the glances she frequently cast towards the entrance, it was clear she was likely waiting for someone.

“Your Highness, are you sure Tia will come?”

A voice beside her was that of Xia.

At the sound, Cyrilina snapped back to reality, looking at him in surprise: “Did she not notify you?”

“No.”

Xia shook his head.

The girls around, their skirts swaying, all wore various masks, making it difficult to discern their true appearances.

Tia’s figure was different from Cyrilina’s curvaceous frame, making her not readily identifiable either.

Xia felt somewhat downcast, lowering his head to sip his drink, rejecting several invitations from unfamiliar women.

Clearly, he and Tia should share an intimate relationship without secrets.

Yet for some reason, he couldn’t shake the feeling that she might be hiding something from him lately.

Especially concerning tonight’s banquet.

If Cyrilina hadn’t casually mentioned it, he wouldn’t have even known it was happening.

Thus, to uncover the truth, he decided to come alone and observe in secret what Tia was up to.

With the blessing of the Goddess of the Crescent Moon, she couldn’t come into contact with any man.

Based on her character, she should have stayed at the Church, wholeheartedly serving her goddess.

Just as Xia was deep in thought, he suddenly noticed Cyrilina’s eyes brightening beside him.

Following her gaze to the entrance, he spotted two familiar figures.

One filled him with intense disgust.

That made it easy for Xia to recognize who they were.

The Princess had actually invited them?!

Suddenly, Xia felt a pang of discomfort in his heart, subconsciously looking at Cyrilina beside him.

Noticing her subordinate’s gaze, Cyrilina felt a twinge of guilt.

Yet this was a task assigned to her by the Sixth Saint Roland and involved a part of the selection scoring.

To catch up with the Second Prince Felix, she had to seize every opportunity.

However, deep down, Cyrilina held genuine feelings for Xia.

After all, if he hadn’t risked his life to save her from danger back then, earning a permanent scar in the process, she would’ve likely fallen victim to the demons.

With that in mind, she unexpectedly reached out, gently squeezing Xia’s fingertip.

“I’m sorry.”

She spoke softly.

Although her words were shielded by the mask, she instinctively turned her head after speaking, as if attempting to hide her moment of vulnerability.

Despite always maintaining an air of authority as a princess, she had never acted this way towards any man.

Looking at Cyrilina’s slightly flushed earlobes, Xia felt his heart race.

He instinctively wanted to reach out and take her hand, but Cyrilina stepped away first, heading towards the entrance.

At the same time, her gaze inadvertently lingered on the young boy.

Everyone assumed she sent an invitation to Ivyst.

However, that was far from the truth.

Her real goal was that boy, whom Ivyst always followed closely, aiming to uncover the secrets hidden within him as per the Sixth Saint Roland’s instructions.

Unfortunately, Xia was unaware of this.

Watching Cyrilina’s graceful form leave, a hint of regret washed over him.

Yet overall, it was still sweet.

Perhaps it wouldn’t be long before the relationship between him and Her Highness would deepen.

With such thoughts, Xia felt a smile tug at his lips. Why is Brother Xia here too?!

In the crowd, Tia, hiding alone in a corner, felt a bit panicked.

She had thought that after finally getting a chance for a break, Brother Xia would be reminiscing with those teammates of his, and he shouldn’t be seen in a place like this.

So when she unexpectedly spotted him, she instinctively felt a twinge of guilt, like a thief caught in the act.

Thankfully, Tia had disguised herself, appearing as a petite girl with short brown hair, her face covered by a fox mask, wearing a glamorous dress she had never tried before.

Compared to her days as the Silent Saintess, Tia now looked vibrant and charming, practically unrecognizable.

After calming her racing heart, she then noticed Cyrilina blushing as she took Brother Xia’s hand.

Though it was a fleeting touch, Xia appeared momentarily dazed, shortly after exhibiting a flicker of admiration in his eyes.

Though she had long known their relationship might grow to this point, witnessing it firsthand stirred a bitter feeling in Tia’s heart.

If only Brother Xia could belong solely to her forever.

Once emotionless like a doll, Tia found a spark of longing unexpectedly blooming in her heart.

But the very next second, as Cyrilina moved gracefully away, Tia snapped back to reality.

She instinctively turned her gaze towards the entrance.

Upon recognizing that familiar figure, Tia’s eyes turned cold.

Since Brother Xia had that woman by his side, it seemed she was no longer needed for the time being.

Right now, she had something even more important to handle.

Lynn Bartleon!

Shivers.

As Lynn walked, he suddenly felt a chill run down his spine, making him shudder.

It felt as if several women were plotting against him.

Yet aside from Her Highness the Princess and the witch miss, who else could it be?

Stealing a glance at Ivyst, he found her expression just as calm and cool as before.

With a sigh, Lynn continued.

Just as the pair, master and servant, entered the venue, Cyrilina, donning her feathered mask, slowly approached them, flanked by several noble young ladies.

“Long time no see, little Ivyst.” Cyrilina flicked her long hair, pretending to casually say, “And you too, Mr. Wangfu.”

Lynn’s expression darkened.

Clearly, Cyrilina was teasing about their earlier clash during their first meeting.

However, Ivyst remained indifferent: “Let’s not joke around.”

Cyrilina glanced at Ivyst in confusion.

As the elder sister, she knew Ivyst well enough to realize that she should be in a good mood, yet for some reason, she wore a cold expression, giving off a standoffish vibe.

Did they have a fight?

To complete the task assigned by the Sixth Saint Roland and get closer to Lynn was indispensable.

Watching the two appear disconnected, an idea sparked in Cyrilina’s mind.

“Step aside.”

Before she could respond, Ivyst spoke first, her words laced with hostility.

Cyrilina was not one to take offense at such minor things, offering a gentle smile: “Of course, but before you enter, you’ll need to participate in a little game to lighten the mood.”

“Boring.”

Ivyst replied flatly, crossing her arms to stand aside.

She didn’t agree but didn’t outright refuse either.

Seeing this, Cyrilina’s smile widened.

“I have two choices for you.” She looked at Ivyst, then at Lynn, “Truth or Dare?”

“I choose Dare.”

Lynn jumped in before Cyrilina could speak.

Just as expected.

Cyrilina understood the situation well, then turned to Ivyst: “Since Lynn chose Dare, it means you have to share a truth.”

“The question is, little Ivyst seems unhappy right now; what’s on your mind?”

“I’m thinking about how to kill you.”

Ivyst shot a glance at Cyrilina without a hint of hesitation.

Someday, she would settle the score with the one responsible for her mother’s demise.

But not now.

The reason Ivyst had agreed to attend this masquerade was partly due to her recent return to the Imperial Capital and not wanting to be outshone in front of Cyrilina; on the other hand, she genuinely needed to ask her something.

Hearing her sister’s ruthless response, Cyrilina sighed internally.

Recognizing the change in expression among several noble young ladies around, she preferred not to dwell on that topic any longer and shifted her gaze to the boy beside her.

“So, it’s time for the Dare, right?”

Cyrilina smiled at Lynn.

Honestly, she felt somewhat displeased at how this guy had belittled her during their first meeting.

Yet she had to approach him actively, despite that.

The reason she proposed playing games was to achieve this goal.

To deepen the divide between the two, creating a scenario of separation.

“Please express your heartfelt admiration for anyone present; their charm, looks, or figure—anything’s fine, as long as you know them. Of course, excluding little Ivyst.” Cyrilina’s demeanor was charming.

Just as Lynn was about to say this was easy, the latter half of her statement cut him short.

Excluding Ivyst suddenly changed the nature of the challenge.

Who said this Dare was simple? It was exceedingly difficult!

He had never anticipated Cyrilina would lay down such a landmine right from the get-go.

Given the conditions, it felt like “Come and compliment me” was written all over his face.

After all, aside from Cyrilina and Ivyst, Lynn didn’t know anyone else present.

But if he praised Cyrilina in front of Ivyst, even if for just a single sentence, he could already foresee how dire the consequences would be.

So this was essentially a death sentence.

Noticing the atmosphere tense up around him, Ivyst, however, remained composed: “Don’t mind me; just do what you want to do.”

Look at that!

How confident! How gracious!

For a woman, especially someone like Ivyst, words must be interpreted the opposite way.

The calmer she appeared, the more it indicated her determination not to fall short before Cyrilina.

With that in mind, Lynn took a deep breath.

“I just want to confirm.” He glanced at Cyrilina, “Anyone present is acceptable, right?”

“Of course,” Cyrilina nodded. “But as mentioned, it must be someone you know.”

“With that settled, I’m ready.”

Lynn looked at her.

At the same time, Ivyst, almost absent-mindedly, met his gaze.

Though she seemed calm on the outside, inside she was almost going crazy.

If her adorable little puppy really betrayed her, she would be incredibly heartbroken.

Moreover, even the future wretched woman wouldn’t tolerate such behavior.

So if Lynn publicly praised Cyrilina, in a sense, Ivyst would have momentarily aligned with the Sorceress of the End.

Those greedy little pups who were eyeing both sides deserved punishment.

With that in mind, Ivyst silently observed Lynn.

“I want to praise myself.”

Lynn said slowly.

Cyrilina was taken aback for a moment before shaking her head: “You’re cheating.”

“Your Highness Cyrilina, you did not specify that it ‘cannot be oneself,'” Lynn retorted immediately.

Hearing this, Cyrilina smiled gently: “True, but… never mind.”

Seeing Lynn manage to evade punishment with this approach intrigued everyone.

Meanwhile, Ivyst breathed a slight sigh of relief.

This response was rather standard, not granting Cyrilina what she wished nor igniting her anger.

Yet compared to how Lynn previously handled situations, which always surprised her, Ivyst felt a tinge of disappointment this time.

But one can’t have it all; she understood that.

As long as Lynn didn’t embarrass her in front of Cyrilina and the others, she could consider it as passing this test.

Just as that thought crossed her mind, Lynn spoke again: “Wait, don’t leave yet.”

“Don’t you want to hear what I’m going to praise about myself?”

Hearing this, Cyrilina paused.

For some reason, an uneasy premonition loomed in her heart.

“As you can see, I have a pair of beautiful eyes.” Lynn smiled gently, gazing at everyone, “Their color resembles the shimmering blue sea, and their shape, like a gem meticulously carved. If you stare closely, you might even see reflections of mountains, birds, sunshine, and the moonlight within them.”

Upon hearing these words, the guests’ gazes turned a bit amused.

Who would have thought this guy had such a flair for the dramatic?

To praise oneself so eloquently, spinning out an entire monologue.

Only Cyrilina’s expression turned serious.

Knowing this kid well, she realized things would not end easily.

And sure enough.

In the next moment, meeting the eyes of all present, Lynn suddenly turned, casting his gaze down at Ivyst.

“However, none of this is the focal point.” His voice softened, “To me, everything’s beautiful for one reason alone.”

“Because in my eyes, it holds you, dear Princess.”

In an instant, a wave of inexplicable bitterness welled up within.

I just knew it!!!

Watching the two dominate the scene before her, Cyrilina felt an intense frustration surging inside her.

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