Wizard: My career panel has no upper limit

The sound of a steam whistle echoed in the twilight.

The "Gear" slowly pulled into the station of Twilight City, steam billowing from both sides of the train and condensing into an eerie pink mist under the eternal glow of the blood moon.

Ron stood by the car window, gazing at the city.

In stark contrast to the raw industrial style of Gear City, Twilight City presents a distorted kind of "harmony".

The surface was human settlements—low brick houses, chimneys emitting smoke, and factories bearing the logo of industrial alliances.

These buildings look unremarkable, even somewhat dilapidated, like anything you'd see in any human town.

But these are only the "outer districts".

The real Twilight City is underground.

Ron could see that dozens of elevators were in operation in the center of the city.

Those platforms, powered by the Blood Crystal Engine, connect the vast space between the surface and deep underground.

Each lift involves the movement of people and goods between the upper and lower levels.

"The outer city is for humans to live in, while the inner city is the territory of the vampires."

Tommy stood beside Ron and carefully explained:

“Build the vampire city underground, and leave the surface to humans.”

"On the one hand, this is a friendly gesture to the industrial alliance, proving that the innovators are willing to 'coexist equally' with humanity."

He lowered his voice:
"On the other hand... the outer city area is actually a buffer zone."

"If the royalist vampires launch a surprise attack on Twilight City, the first thing to be attacked will be the human settlements on the surface, not the core underground facilities."

"Those factories, residences, warehouses... to put it bluntly, are all 'shells' that can be sacrificed."

Tommy sighed:

"So people in the outer city are desperately trying to move into the inner city."

The inner city is safer, with complete runic protection and patrols by private guards of vampire nobles.

"To get in, you either need money, connections, or..."

He looked at Ron:

"Or it's a distinguished guest like yourself."

Through the [Observation] ability of the Void Remains, Ron was able to roughly see a corner of the underground city.

It was a scene completely different from the surface of the earth:

Spires rise from the underground rock strata, castles adorned with gargoyles hang from stalactites, and terraces paved with blood-red glass reflect the light of magic crystals…

The entire underground city is like an inverted maze, layer upon layer, with no bottom in sight.

Countless "bridges" connect the buildings, and these bridges, made of congealed blood, gleam eerily under the magical lights.

Occasionally, one can see vampires walking gracefully on the bridge, their robes billowing behind them, like ghosts walking in the twilight.

"This is……"

Silas pushed up his rune glasses, and a dense stream of data flashed across the lenses:

"It's a combination of underground cavity excavation technology and bloodline alchemy, which is very distinctive to the region."

"But this arrangement, with humans on top and vampires below, seems like the vampires are being 'modest'..."

Miller, standing to the side, spoke with a sarcastic tone:

"In fact, this is the smartest defense strategy."

"The deeper you bury yourself, the harder it is for the enemy to hit your vital points."

The train came to a stop, and the cabin doors opened.

As Ron and his team stepped off the train, the first thing they noticed was the difference in the air.

The air in Gear City was thick with soot and engine oil, while the air in Twilight City was a mixture of a sweet, cloying smell of blood and... spices?
He looked up at the top of the platform.

Dozens of huge incense burners were hanging there, continuously burning some kind of incense.

The smoke rose slowly, and when mixed with the smell of blood, it created a unique aroma.

“That’s ‘soothing incense’.”

A voice came from not far away.

Ron turned around.

At the edge of the platform, a thin, middle-aged man was walking towards them.

The man wore a relatively simple robe with a dark red rose embroidered on his chest—the emblem of the Dark Rose clan.

His face was unnaturally pale, and there were faint beads of sweat on his forehead.

His gait was somewhat stiff, as if he was deliberately controlling something.

"Your Excellency Ralph."

The man stopped five meters away from Ron and bowed deeply.
"I am Byrne Henderson, the current patriarch of the Dark Rose Clan."

"By order of Lady Euphemia, I have come to welcome you."

When he looked up, Ron noticed that his eyes were darting around, as if he was trying to avoid a certain gaze.

Nervous? Or fear?
"Chief Bern, you've worked hard."

Ron nodded in response.

Of course he knew the name.

According to information provided by Euphemia, the Dark Rose Clan was one of the first small clans to pledge allegiance to her, and is also the most "loyal" force in Twilight City on the surface.

Chief Bourne himself was mediocre in ability, but he was obedient.

For the past thirty years, I have diligently managed some peripheral matters and have never made a major mistake.

But it is precisely because it is too "perfect" that it arouses suspicion:
How could a mediocre clan leader not make a mistake for thirty years?

Either they're incredibly lucky, or someone is giving them pointers behind the scenes.

Just then, the shadow behind Bourne suddenly twisted.

The shadow writhed and expanded like a living thing, eventually "standing" up from the plane.

It was the figure of a woman.

She wore a long black dress that resembled a wedding gown, with intricate blood-red patterns embroidered on the hem.

Her face was as delicate as a porcelain doll's, and her skin was so white it was almost transparent, with a fine network of blood vessels clearly visible beneath the skin.

The most bizarre thing was her eyes; they had no whites, and the entire eyeball was deep red, like two gems soaked in blood.

"Your Excellency Ralph."

When she spoke, her voice was ethereal, as if it came from a very distant place:

“I am ‘Ivy,’ Lady Euphemia’s… private creation.”

"My lord asked me to tell you that she is waiting on the third basement level, and everything is ready."

Ron scrutinized the "Bride of Blood".

The other party possesses its own independent consciousness, yet maintains a deep connection with the creator.

It can perform tasks in place of the original entity and also transmit information in real time.

The key is……

"Monitoring device".

This judgment flashed through his mind.

Euphemia sent her clan leader, whose loyalty was questionable, to greet them, but also arranged for her own creation to accompany her.

In this way, no matter what Bourne does or says, he can't escape her "eyes".

"It seems she's finally starting to learn her lesson."

Ron thought to himself:

"Although the methods are still very crude... sending such an obvious monitor will only make the person being monitored more vigilant, but at least they know that they cannot completely trust their subordinates."

There has been progress, though not much.

He maintained a polite smile on his face.
"Then I'll trouble you two to lead the way."

Byrne visibly relaxed, the tension in his shoulders easing slightly.

"This way, Your Excellency. I have prepared a private vehicle."

The group left the platform and walked through a long, narrow corridor.

The walls on both sides of the corridor are covered with various oil paintings.

Ron noticed that the content of these paintings was very peculiar:

Some depict vampire nobles at a banquet under the moonlight, where dark red liquid can be seen in the "wine glasses" amidst the clinking of glasses;
Some depict human artisans forging rune weapons, sparks flying, with an upside-down castle in the background;
Others depict scenes of vampires and humans shaking hands and making peace, but upon closer inspection, the "handshake" gestures are extremely stiff, as if they were forced into a staged photo...

"These are 'commemorative paintings of coexistence'."

Byrne noticed Ron's gaze, his voice carrying a mechanical quality, like reciting official rhetoric:
"After the reformists came to power, they commissioned an artist to create this work in order to promote the idea of ​​'peaceful coexistence'."

“Every year on ‘Coexistence Day,’ we hold an exhibition here, inviting human representatives to visit, and everyone together…”

"Let's act together."

Ivy suddenly interrupted, her sarcasm undisguised:
"The human representative held up a wine glass, his smile as stiff as a golem's."

The vampire nobleman held their hands, but his eyes were assessing where their carotid arteries were.

"Then everyone took photos, gave speeches, and declared that 'a new era has arrived.'"

"The performance is over. The human representatives are going back to Gear City, and we're going back underground."

She snorted softly:
"We'll perform it again next year."

Bourne's face twitched, but he said nothing and quickened his pace.

Ron raised an eyebrow.

At the end of the corridor was a heavy metal door, covered with protective runes.

Bourne took a blood crystal key from his pocket and inserted it into the lock.

"Click——"

With the sound of gears turning, the door slowly opened.

Behind the door is a spacious platform where a strangely shaped "vehicle" is parked.

It's more accurate to describe it as a hybrid of some kind of biological and mechanical thing than a vehicle.

The main body of the car is made of polished black metal, but a layer of translucent "flesh" is embedded on the metal surface.

The flesh and blood were slowly wriggling, like living biological tissue.

At the front of the car, you can even see an eye-like structure that is slowly blinking.

"This is the 'Blood Bone Cart'."

Byrne's introduction carried a hint of pride:

"A unique mode of transportation in Twilight City, combining vampire alchemy and human steam technology."

He walked to the car and gently stroked the layer of flesh:
"At its core is a 'contracted beast heart,' which comes from a magical beast that voluntarily sacrificed itself."

"After the heart was modified by runes, it retained its biological instincts and vitality, yet it could be controlled by mechanical systems."

The car suddenly shook, and all the "eyes" turned to Ron and his group, blinking more frequently.

"It recognizes you as a wizard."

Bourne explained:
"The Bloodbone Chariot is very sensitive to magical fluctuations; it's... well, an instinctive alertness."

But don't worry, it's very docile and won't attack.

"Please get on the bus, everyone."

He opened the car door.

After the last person was seated, Byrne gently patted the side of the carriage, his voice very soft, as if soothing something living:

"Go to the third underground level and take the 'Dark Vein Passage'."

The car shook slightly, and those "eyes" blinked even faster, as if to indicate "received".

Then, the entire vehicle began to descend vertically along the passage, at a steady but not slow speed.

Through the car window, Ron could see various scenes flashing by on the tunnel walls:
The ground surface is a residential area, where you can see balconies with clothes hanging to dry and hear the faint sounds of children laughing.

The first and second basement floors are the commercial area and the "inner city" residential area, lined with various shops, from bakeries steaming with heat to the vampires' "blood tasting hall" with dim red lights.

Then there was a heavy metal gate with a warning sign that read: "Unauthorized personnel are prohibited from entering."

Sensing the presence of the Blood Bone Chariot, the gate's rune crystals on both sides lit up, and the heavy door panels slowly opened.

As you go down, the atmosphere completely changes.

"The three underground levels are the 'core area' of Twilight City."

Ivy suddenly spoke, her bloodshot eyes looking out the car window:
"Only two types of people are allowed to enter here—core members of the reformist faction and Lady Euphemia's direct subordinates."

"If you go any further down, you'll reach the 'restricted area'."

"restricted area?"

Edwin asked curiously, his fingers unconsciously rubbing the armrest of the seat, a habitual gesture he made when he felt alert.

Ivy's voice became ethereal:
"Yes, the most dangerous beings in Twilight City are imprisoned there—completely berserk vampires, out-of-control alchemical creations, and..."

Her eyes deepened:

“Some ‘experimental failures’ that shouldn’t exist.”

“Those things are permanently sealed deep inside, bound by countless runic chains.”

Just then, the Blood Bone Cart stopped.

"arrive."

Bourne's voice was somewhat hoarse:
"The reception hall on the third basement level."

The car door opened, and Ron stepped out first.

Before us was a spacious underground space, with a round conference table placed in the center of the hall.

Three people were already seated at the table.

Ron's gaze swept over them, sensing traces of disguise on their faces and in their postures. He began to mentally compare the information with that provided by Euphemia.

The first thing that catches the eye is the man sitting directly opposite the door.

She looked to be in her thirties and had a head of neatly combed short brown hair.

He wore a dark gray scholar's robe, with a silver brooch on his chest engraved with an open book.

With a gentle smile on his face, his eyes behind his glasses appeared wise and kind, and he exuded the air of an "intellectual".

"Ivan."

Ron mentally matched the numbers.

According to Euphemia's records, this man appeared in Twilight City thirteen years ago, claiming to be a "scholar-type vampire" who had fled there.

He demonstrated an astonishing knowledge base and management skills, quickly gaining Euphemia's trust and becoming the "intelligence chief" of Twilight City.

Euphemia recently discovered that the key nodes of the intelligence network established by this man are almost entirely in his own hands.

Moreover, he always manages to provide "just the right" information that is "useful but not fatal".

It's like feeding a pet: give it enough to eat, but never let it get too full.

To Ivan's right sat a woman.

She looked to be in her early twenties, with blond curly hair loosely tied back with a ribbon.

Dressed in a proper butler's uniform, his every gesture exuded well-trained manners.

Her appearance wasn't stunning, but her features were harmonious.

Especially those light blue eyes, so clear they seemed to see right through people's hearts.

"Serafina".

The "Chief Butler" of Twilight City joined the city eleven years ago as a "runaway noblewoman".

She excels at internal affairs management and interpersonal coordination, managing the logistics system of Twilight City in an orderly manner.

The problem is—she managed it "too well".

The appointment of personnel in almost every key position was made with her "advice".

She was involved in every important allocation of resources.

On the surface, she is just an executor, but in reality, she is an invisible "power hub".

On the left is a man who looks to be in his forties.

He had a neatly trimmed gray beard, wore a well-tailored black tuxedo, and wore a white dove badge symbolizing "peace" on his chest.

He had a hearty smile on his face, enthusiastic eyes, and sat upright, exuding the passion of an "idealist."

“Alyosha.”

The "chief diplomat" of Twilight City appeared nine years ago and claimed to be a "staunch supporter of the reformists".

His speeches were so inspiring that he could always persuade wavering small clans to join Euphemia's alliance.

Over nine years, he "persuaded" twelve small clans for Twilight City.

But Euphemia only recently realized that the clans he had persuaded seemed to be loyal to Alyosha himself, rather than to her, their nominal leader.

Three people, three seemingly perfect and capable assistants.

But it is precisely because he is too capable that he is strange in every way.

"welcome!"

Ivan was the first to stand up, his smile as warm as the spring sun.
"Your Excellency Ralph, I have long admired your name!"

"It is a great honor for us to meet you in Twilight City!"

He stepped forward, placed his right hand on his chest, and bowed slightly.
"My name is Ivan, and I am currently in charge of intelligence and archives management in Twilight City."

"This is Ms. Serafina."

He turned to the side to indicate:
"She is in charge of the internal affairs of Twilight City. It can be said that the smooth operation of this city is 70% due to her."

Serafina rose, her skirt tracing an arc in the air, her movements as precise as a textbook example of etiquette:

"You flatter me, sir. I was just doing my duty."

"It is my honor to share Lady Euphemia's burdens."

Her voice was gentle, but Ron noticed that when she said "Lady Euphemia," her tone was extremely standard.

There was neither too much nor too little respect, as if he were reciting a line that had to be uttered. "And this is Mr. Alyosha."

Ivan continued:

"The reason why Twilight City was able to maintain a balance among various forces and establish friendly relations with more than a dozen clans in the surrounding area is entirely due to its diplomatic skills."

Alyosha laughed heartily, strode over, and extended his hand:

"Sir Ralph, I have long heard of your deeds!"

"Narrative potion-making—what a magnificent innovation! Your contribution to the entire wizarding civilization is worthy of being recorded in history!"

His handshake was firm, his eyes were sincere, and he radiated a warm "I admire you" aura.

"If possible, I would really like to hear you explain that theory in detail! Although I am a vampire, I have always maintained a sense of awe for scholarship!"

Ron responded with a smile to each of them.

"Three people, three disguises."

He concluded in his mind:

"The more perfect the disguise, the more obvious the flaws will be."

“A person who has actually worked in a certain position for more than ten years cannot be this ‘standard’.”

“They will have habits, personal style, and a sense of ‘relaxation’.”

"But these three people..."

His gaze swept over the three of them:

"Like three actors who have just memorized the script, they are trying their best to 'perform' every line and every movement perfectly."

"Unfortunately, it was too forceful."

"Please sit, please sit, and esteemed wizards, please also sit!"

Ivan greeted them:

“We have prepared some refreshments, all specially prepared according to the wizard’s tastes.”

"After all, the 'dietary habits' of vampires may not be suitable for distinguished guests."

He snapped his fingers.

A hidden door on one side of the hall opened, and several human servants entered carrying exquisite tea sets and snacks.

The servants moved swiftly, but their eyes were somewhat vacant.

Ron could sense that their consciousness had been "dulled" by some force, leaving them only able to mechanically execute commands.

"IMHO."

He sat down in the seat next to the head of the table:
"I came to Twilight City this time mainly at Euphemia's invitation to assist her with some... research issues."

He took the teacup from the servant and took a sip:
"I wonder how much the three of you know about her research?"

This question may seem casual, but it is actually a test.

"Of course we understand!"

Alyosha immediately chimed in, his tone filled with pride:

"Lady Euphemia's research is the hope of the entire vampire race!"

"She's interfering with our bloodlines with chemical pollutants, trying to sever our connection with His Majesty so she can resist the madness..."

He spoke passionately, but all of this content was "public."

Anyone who has spent time in Twilight City can tell you these things.

“Mr. Alyosha is right.”

Serafina added, in a gentle voice:

"However, the lady has been in seclusion for the past three years, and we subordinates dare not disturb her research."

"So, what's the specific progress..."

She gave a slightly helpless smile:

"We are sorry that we cannot provide details, as that is a top secret of the adults."

"well said."

Ivan nodded in agreement:

“Research like this definitely needs to be kept secret. Although we are the adults’ assistants, on an academic level…”

He pushed up his glasses:

"We were mainly responsible for logistical support and data organization, while the core experiments and theories were all controlled by the adults."

The three of them worked together seamlessly.

One expresses enthusiasm, one explains the reasons, and one adds details.

It seems perfectly reasonable and watertight.

Ron, however, was secretly sneering.

"They're all award-winning actors."

"Everyone knows when to say what, what tone to use, and what expression to make."

"But real teamwork is not like that."

"People who work together for a long time will have a tacit understanding, but they will also have disagreements and that 'natural sense of chaos'."

"It certainly won't be like it is now, with standards as precise as a precision instrument."

Ron put down his teacup:

"So, how is Euphemia doing now?"

"She said she was waiting for me. Was there something wrong with her health, or had her research hit a bottleneck?"

This question is the real test.

Ivan and Serafina exchanged a brief glance, but Ron still caught it.

"The adult's health condition..."

Ivan carefully chose his words:

"It's nothing serious, just that the long-term high-intensity research has left her a bit tired."

"As for the bottleneck..."

He gave an understanding smile:

"Every great research project will encounter bottlenecks, won't it?"

"My lord is currently working on overcoming the side effect of 'weakened strength.' Although progress is slow, it is steadily advancing."

"We believe that with His Excellency Ralph's assistance, this problem will surely be solved!"

"That does sound like a tricky problem."

Ron said calmly:

"However, now that I'm here, I'll do my best to help."

"As for to what extent it can be resolved..."

He suppressed his smile:

"It depends on the actual situation."

Just as the atmosphere became awkward, Ivy suddenly spoke:
"Gentlemen, let's stop our casual conversation here."

Her bloodshot eyes swept over the three of them:

"Lady Euphemia's time is precious, and so is Lord Ralph's time."

"Ivan, Serafina, Alyosha."

She pronounced the three names, one word at a time:

"Your 'welcoming mission' is complete; you may leave."

"Next, I will take Lord Ralph to see the Lord."

These words caused the expressions on the faces of the three people to change slightly.

Especially Ivan, whose smile froze for a moment:
“This… Miss Ivy, according to custom, we should accompany you…”

"Standard practice?"

Ivy's voice turned cold:
"When did you become qualified to discuss 'customs' in front of Lady Euphemia and a Dark Sun-level guest?"

"The master said that I am only allowed to bring Lord Ralph over."

"No one else is allowed to follow."

As she spoke, a strange smile curled at the corner of her lips:

"Or do you have objections to the adults' orders?"

Ivan's smile finally vanished completely.

Finally, he took a deep breath and forced a smile again:
"Of course I have no objection, I will follow your arrangements."

He turned to Ron and bowed deeply:

"Well then, Your Excellency Ralph, we'll take our leave now."

"If you need anything, please let me know."

After speaking, the three of them stood up and left the hall in an orderly manner.

But the moment he turned around, Ivan's eyes changed.

That gentle facade vanished completely, revealing a cold, calculating gaze.

It lasted for less than a moment before returning to normal.

But that one moment was enough for him to make a judgment.

"It seems..."

Ron felt somewhat excited:

"They're not just undercover agents, they're close to a showdown."

“Euphemisma used Ivy to monitor them, and they must have realized it.”

"So now both sides are putting on an act—Euphemisms are pretending to still trust them, and they are pretending to still be loyal."

“But this fragile balance could be broken at any time, which is exactly what I want.”

After the three footsteps had completely disappeared, Ivy turned to Ron:
"I'm sorry to have made you laugh."

The Blood Bride did not immediately take him away, but turned to Silas and the others first.

"My esteemed wizards, you must be quite tired from your long journey."

"I have prepared a place for everyone to rest, with hot water, food, and some entertainment facilities unique to Twilight City."

"Of course, if you are not interested in the vampire lifestyle, I have also prepared rooms that conform to human habits."

Silas adjusted his glasses and looked at Ron.

Ron nodded slightly: "Alright, everyone go and rest. The conversation may go on for a long time."

Miller.

He turned to the old explorer:
"You are responsible for arranging shifts and ensuring the safety of the team."

"clear."

Miller responded succinctly, but his eyes swept across the hall, assessing potential threats and escape routes.

"Then please follow me."

Ivy raised her hand, and the hidden door opened again.

This time, three more "blood brides" appeared.

Their appearances varied; some were gentle, some were aloof, and some were innocent, but their blood-red eyes were all the same.

"They will take good care of everyone."

Ivy explained:
"This is the core area of ​​Twilight City. No outsiders are allowed to move around freely except for Lady Euphemia and those she trusts."

"So if you need anything, or want to go anywhere, please be sure to tell them."

Silas and the others exchanged glances, and ultimately followed the three "brides" out of the hall.

Before leaving, Edwin glanced back at Ron, his eyes filled with worry, but even more so with trust.

After everyone left, only Ron and Ivy remained in the hall.

The Blood Bride maintained her docile posture, her hands folded in front of her and her head slightly lowered.

But as the last footsteps disappeared at the end of the corridor, her demeanor underwent a subtle change.

A certain "disguise" was gently unveiled.

Ivy slowly raised her head, her blood-red eyes staring directly at Ron.

Then, she lifted her skirt and gave a ladylike curtsy, the skirt spreading out on the ground like a blooming black rose.

"You're finally here."

Her voice held a newfound ease from the heart:

"Ivy has been waiting for this day for a long time."

Ron raised an eyebrow: "Did Nari tell you I was coming?"

"Yes."

Ivy nodded:

"Lord Nari said many years ago, 'The little mare will get into trouble sooner or later, and then the baby will come to clean up the mess.'"

Her expression was somewhat downcast:

"Lord Nari also said that I would be able to meet the 'true master' then."

Indeed, you and Lady Euphemia are completely different.

"Oh?" Ron became interested. "How is it different?"

Ivy paused for a moment, seemingly considering her words:
"Lady Euphemia is very hardworking and intelligent."

But she always… how should I put it, like a child desperately trying to prove herself.

“Every decision involves asking ‘Is this the right thing to do?’ ‘Will there be any mistakes?’ ‘What will others think?’”

She looked up at Ron:

“But you are different. You just stand there, and the people in the team will naturally follow your instructions.”

"That wasn't obedience born of orders, but rather..."

Ivy thought for a moment and found a suitable word:
"The absolute trust built up over the years means they believe that by following you, things will go smoothly."

This observation is very insightful.

Ron nodded: "Very good observation skills."

"This was taught by Lord Nari."

Ivy's tone carried a hint of pride:

"Lord Nari said that the most important ability for a 'guardian' is not fighting, but rather 'observation'."

"Observe the emotional changes of each person, the true intention behind each word, and the secrets that are not spoken."

She resumed her maid's demeanor:
"So all these years, Ivy has been watching every corner of Twilight City."

“Ivan’s hidden schemes in the intelligence network, every penny Serafina misappropriated, every clan Alyosha persuaded… Ivy saw it all.”

Ron narrowed his eyes: "Since you saw it, why didn't you tell Euphemia?"

"Because Lord Nari said, 'Don't meddle in other people's business.'"

Ivy replied coldly:
"The mare needs to learn how to deal with betrayal on her own. If we do everything for her, she will never learn to grow. These are Lord Nari's exact words."

"and……"

Her tone became somewhat subtle:

Lord Nari also said, 'It's good to let the little mare suffer a bit, so she won't always think she's so great.'

Ron couldn't help but laugh.

That's definitely something Nari would say.

"Were the other 'brides' the same?"

"Yes Master."

Ivy nodded:

"The five of us were all modified when Lady Euphemia was still receiving training from Lady Nari."

"very good."

Ron turned around:

"Now take me to see Euphemia."

"Yes."

Ivy walked to a wall and gently pressed her pale fingers on a specific spot.

Blood-red lines spread from the point of contact, outlining a hidden door.

"My lord has been in very poor condition these past few days."

As she led the way, she said:

"Lord Nari's 'education' had a great impact on her, not only physically, but more so on mentally."

"She began to doubt every decision she made and question every judgment she made."

“Last night, when Ivy brought dinner in, she saw Ivy staring blankly at the mirror, repeatedly muttering, ‘What did I do wrong?’”

A rare hint of sympathy crept into Ivy's voice:
"To be honest, Ivy has never seen an adult so vulnerable."

The two descended the spiral staircase.

The blood crystal lights on the wall gradually dimmed, and the air became increasingly damp and cold.

"but……"

Ivy suddenly stopped and turned to look at Ron:
"Ivy thinks that this kind of blow might be a good thing for Lady Euphemia."

“She needs to be shattered before she can be rebuilt. Pride is sometimes more terrifying than a curse.”

After saying that, she pushed open the heavy metal door of the laboratory. (End of Chapter)