Secrets: Priestess

Chapter 174 Revenge
Facing Claire's question, Xio's expression changed again and again. He smiled bitterly and said, "Yes, the two people from the church also discussed this matter..."

"Fors's problem was pressing, and I was at my wit's end... So I thought, since Miss Audrey could live well despite believing in that unknown being, didn't that mean that being could be relied upon? So, with a desperate attitude, I recited the description of the honorific name."

Thinking back to last night, when Fors's body had undergone a strange transformation amidst her inaudible mumblings, Xio sighed softly, "I can't bear to watch Fors degenerate into a monster. And the worst outcome of praying to an unknown being is to become a monster..."

Claire had similar experiences and a similar mental journey. When she was on the verge of losing control, she also prayed to any "life-saving straw" she could hold on to, and that was why she was able to survive until now.

Whether ordinary people or extraordinary people living in this world, many of them end up turning into monsters by praying to unknown beings. The vast majority of evil spirit incidents handled by the Nighthawks and the Red Gloves are similar.

Some of these cases stem from the corruption of the parties involved, who were aroused by evil spirits or even evil gods and their inner desires, becoming cult members and committing various tragedies.

But many more events cannot be simply attributed to the word "temptation".

There are those like Xio who want to save their friends and family, and there are those who simply want to stay alive... Every evil spirit case nakedly reveals the various tragedies of this era.

In this world, various high-ranking beings unscrupulously play with people's hearts, and a large number of extraordinary people become their fans.

Some, like the "Aurora Society", use words like faith, ideals, and salvation as slogans, and do all kinds of evil things. Others, like the "Witch Sect", "Moss Ascetic Order", and "Blood Worship Cult", do not hide their evil at all.

Even though Claire had inevitably used conspiracy theories to speculate about the origins, relationships, and other aspects of the Seven Gods, she had to admit that whether it was to maintain its orthodox status or for other reasons, the Church of the Seven Gods at least showed a protective attitude towards its believers, and the vast majority of extraordinary people affiliated with the Church of the Seven Gods were fulfilling their protective duties.

Unlike those evil gods who bring disaster to others.

"But haven't you ever considered your own safety? Chanting an unknown honorific name will most likely fail to save Fors, and will also put you in danger." Claire looked at Xio and said.

Having seen a large number of cases, Claire knows that she is "lucky" for being pulled back from the brink of losing control many times, but there must be a reason for this "luck".

Claire knew that she was not yet able to find out the reason due to her own lack of knowledge, but she already knew more about the gods than most people.

Xio spoke as if it was a matter of course, "Fors is my best friend since I came to Backlund. She is someone who is irreplaceable in my heart. Even if there is only a one in ten thousand chance, I am willing to try."

Claire couldn't say anything about this, and only reminded him, "The evil gods love to seduce people with ideas like yours the most."

After the reminder, Claire continued, "According to my intelligence, the unknown entity you're chanting about is closely connected to the mysterious organization behind Miss Audrey. Therefore, young ladies from noble families like Audrey are always able to get advance knowledge of news that even official organizations like the Night Watchers haven't yet received, without leaving their homes."

Hearing Claire's words, Xio said in a slightly serious tone, "I actually discussed this matter with Miss Audrey in advance. Her attitude... well, I still find it hard to believe that Miss Audrey, who is so kind-hearted and has such generous commissions, would actually be a follower of the evil god... What's her intention?"

Claire said, "There are many nobles who are fascinated by the extraordinary world. There are even many who, like Audrey, have devoted themselves to the worship of evil gods. As the daughter of an earl, haven't you ever felt curious about the extraordinary world?"

"Back then..." Xio recalled, revealing a slightly indescribable expression. "I was so lazy I almost had servants feed me. I had no interest in such troublesome matters. If it weren't for uncovering the truth behind my father's betrayal and restoring our family's honor, I wouldn't have set foot in the world of Beyonders."

As he spoke, Xio's voice gradually became calmer. "However... when using the 'Arbitrator' ability to resolve various disputes in the East District, I felt a feeling I had never experienced before... How should I put it? It was like I found my own value."

“Value…”

This kind of vocabulary was both familiar and unfamiliar to Claire. When she was on Earth, value education almost permeated her short life. So after "traveling" to this world, she didn't think about things like value and meaning.

I am simply pursuing freedom and the power to set myself free.

"But I still have to remind you, since you're reciting an unknown honorific name, it's possible that an unknown being might sense it. Whether or not the other party will respond depends purely on their mood," Claire warned Quinn.

Xio also revealed a wry smile of fear: "But things have developed to this point... Besides, this is not the first time I have chanted this name."

Seeing this, Claire sighed and said comfortingly, "If there's anything unusual, contact me immediately. The goddess will protect us."

Xio nodded solemnly, drew a crimson crescent on his chest, and said with a complicated expression, "Actually, I'm more worried about Fors becoming abnormal. She finally found a way to avoid the whispers, but now she might have fallen into the sight of an evil god."

After thinking for a moment, Claire promised, "If Fors is willing to convert to the Goddess, she can also join our team."

Xio's eyes lit up, and she was clearly tempted to persuade Fors to join the team. However, changing one's beliefs was a difficult matter, so she said cautiously, "I'll talk to Fors."

"Are you dividing the spoils?" Just as Claire and Xio were discussing this, Tessa, who was obviously in a good mood, opened the door and walked in. Seeing the various denominations of banknotes spread out on the table, she teased.

Claire glanced at the woman and said calmly, "Yes, we are discussing how to divide your share."

"Captain Galadilla, where is your spirit of contract?"

"We didn't sign any written contract."

After some joking, Tessa received her share of the reward and said, "What about Flora's share? Do you want me to give it to her?"

Claire raised her eyebrows and asked, "You dare to go to St. Samuel's Church?"

Tessa said, "I can pass it on when she comes to the bar."

Claire was silent for a moment. After examining Tessa for a moment, she said, "I saw Flora in the church last night. She looked very worried after returning. She's not in good condition. I'm afraid she won't be leaving the church for a while."

Tessa, who was originally in a good mood, felt her heart tighten again because of Claire's words. She glanced at the confused Xio beside her and asked, "What's wrong with her?"

Claire made up an excuse that would easily make Tessa overthink things, and said, "After all she's been through... you should know that her body is as fragile as a porcelain doll right now, and she's not suited to excessive thinking."

After hearing what Claire said, Tessa frowned and said nothing more.

Seeing Tessa like this, Claire felt a slight childish pleasure of revenge in her heart.

It has the mentality of "making you a riddle man will make you anxious to death".

Xio, standing aside, completely didn't understand the nonsensical conversation between the two. He just heard that Tessa seemed to know Flora, and that Flora was not in good health.

"Miss Viper is so fierce and terrifying when she attacks, but could there be hidden dangers in her body?" Xio was secretly shocked in his heart.

Afterwards, Claire explained the arrangements for the next gathering: "How about next week?" Tessa, who wanted to see Flora again as soon as possible, and Xio, whose ambition was aroused, had no objection.

The specific matters were still led by Hugh, and Tessa also "enthusiastically" gave Hugh advice. Claire did not stay any longer. She also had an appointment with Detective Stuart today, wanting to ask him if he had any new discoveries in the Cragg Club recently.

After some disguise, Claire came to Stuart's small office.

Stuart, who had received the secret signal in advance, was waiting here as promised.

"Ma'am, unfortunately, we haven't found any breakthrough clues in the Krag Club yet." Stuart reported to Claire awkwardly.

Not only was Stuart embarrassed by Claire's high initial investment, but he had also recently met a lot of people at the Cragg Club, which had expanded his network and business.

Therefore, he was unable to complete Claire's commission, which made him feel even more guilty despite benefiting greatly from it.

Claire wasn't worried about this. "Please check at the Krag Club for me to see if anyone from the Meazza family is a member there. It's possible they're using an alias."

"Meazza Family?" Stuart hesitated. "Does Viscount Press's affairs have anything to do with the Meazza Family?"

"That's why I asked you to investigate because I didn't know." Claire said calmly.

Stuart was in a dilemma for a while. The issue involving Viscount Press was already quite difficult for him. When he heard that a great noble like Meazza might be involved, he felt even more stressed.

As expected, the high bounty is too hot to handle...

Just as Stuart was thinking this, Claire took out four 10-pound notes and placed them on the table in front of him: "You can add more money."

Stuart's eyes widened, and he quickly said, "Don't worry, ma'am, leave this matter to us. We are professionals."

To prove he wasn't just taking the money without doing anything, Stuart added, "Although we haven't found any connection between Viscount Press and any specific individuals, we did find that Viscount Press was working towards becoming a member of the Air Pollution Investigation Committee."

"Air Pollution Investigation Committee?" Claire had heard of the name of this organization, but she had little interest in worldly affairs, so she wondered what this organization did.

"As the name suggests, the purpose is to deal with the smog that shrouds Backlund. But these noble lords are unwilling to act without profit..." Speaking of this, Stuart, who had conducted a more detailed investigation, said with some disdain:
"The committee's establishment is a bill discussed and passed by both the House of Commons and the House of Lords, and it was established by the government. The committee's final report will become the most important basis for the planned Anti-Pollution Bill and Smoke Emissions Reduction Bill. This should be a good thing, but after investigating some of the confirmed names on the committee, I no longer have high hopes for it."

"Why?" Claire asked in confusion.

"The chairman of the committee is Sir Des Shaw, the director of the National Meteorological Bureau. His chairmanship is undisputed. However, the chief secretary who handles the specific matters is Hibbert Hall."

Hibbert Hall.

Claire remembered the name; it was Audrey's eldest brother.

Talking about the affairs of the kingdom made Stuart a little emotional. He said sarcastically:

"The Hall family is the second-largest shareholder of the Constant Coal and Steel Corporation. I simply don't believe that Mr. Hibbert Hall would uphold his duties at the expense of his family's interests. That's an unimaginably vast fortune."

"Under no circumstances should Hibbert Hall serve as the Commission's Chief Secretary."

After saying this, Stuart suddenly said to Claire, "Speaking of which, Jessica Meazza of the Meazza family has also been qualified as a committee member."

Claire remembered that Jessica had talked to her in a dream about joining a Kingdom organization.

So it’s the Air Pollution Investigation Committee?

"The Meazza family holds a considerable share of the anthracite market, which is probably why Ms. Meazza is vying for the committee membership. But compared to the Hall family, at least air pollution control is in the interests of the Meazza family..." Stuart continued his self-speculation about the so-called inside story.

Claire remained noncommittal about this. Jessica had clearly stated that joining the committee was her personal decision and had nothing to do with the family. It was Jessica's hope to do something meaningful and thus pray for "Claire of God's Kingdom."

Claire couldn't judge the purpose of the other members of the committee, but Jessica's ideas were consistent with the purpose of establishing this organization.

However, Viscount Press, Hibbert Hall, Jessica, and others had all joined the committee, which made Claire a little concerned. She then inquired, "Who else is on the committee?"

Stuart, believing his employer approved of the investigation, pulled out the relevant investigation list from his newly tidied desk. Pointing, he said, "The list also includes Mr. Cave, a member of the House of Commons; Mr. Hawkesley, a renowned doctor; and Mrs. Mary, a shareholder of Coim's... Of course, this list is by no means complete, and it's subject to change. Everything will be finalized based on what's published in the newspaper."

After memorizing the list, Claire praised him, "Detective Stuart, this investigation shows your remarkable abilities. I hope to hear even better news."

After leaving Stuart, Claire returned to her residence on Pacefield Street to rest and recuperate. In the afternoon, she attended the Red Glove Captains' meeting at St. Samuel's Church and bid farewell to Lord Cecima.

According to Creste Cesimer's temperament, he wanted to leave in a low-key manner, but this time he also had to arrange the work of the various Red Glove teams stationed in Backlund after his departure, so naturally he couldn't keep a low profile.

At the meeting, Cecima made a systematic arrangement of the responsibilities of each Red Glove team. Like Cecima, several Red Glove teams would also travel to various locations to carry out missions. Due to incomplete staffing, Claire's team and Dunn's team would continue to stay in Backlund temporarily.

The Nighthawks naturally knew about the Red Gloves' actions.

The Nighthawks were all feeling quite heavy-hearted about the departure of the Red Gloves. After all, the Red Gloves had been of great help to their work during their temporary stay in Backlund.

But there was one person whose face was filled with unconcealable excitement.

"Cesima is finally leaving." Messeri Dougherty, wearing delicate makeup, wore a slightly twisted smile. "It's time to take revenge on Daly and her blind captain!"

After being humiliated by Claire last time, Meseri naturally held a grudge in her heart, but the presence of Lord Cecima made her feel uneasy.

But starting today, the Red Gloves were all out on missions, while Galadriel's Seventh Squad was still temporarily stationed in Backlund. In Messerli's view, this was undoubtedly her chance for revenge!

"We have plenty of time now! Daly! Galadilla!"

This excitement made Messeri's smile more distorted, and vaguely, a female voice of "more and more" echoed in her heart.

(End of this chapter)