Mystery: The Undead Don't Die from Linking the Fire

Chapter 119 You want to save everyone? How pathetic.

"Why would a time traveler like him be so obsessed with rekindling the flame? Where does this obsession come from?!"

Klein mentally scoffed.

But then he seemed to remember something, and his expression shifted slightly.

"The reason why the undead possess such obsessions is that with each death, their humanity is gradually eroded. As the number of deaths increases, they gradually become 'wandering spirits' and eventually 'living corpses'."

"The 'living corpse' is a living corpse that moves. They do not think, have no reason, and have no consciousness. They only have the instinct to chase after the soul and humanity."

"The only essential difference between wandering spirits and zombies lies in whether they possess 'obsession'!"

"Ego's obsession is to protect, Anri's obsession is to seek revenge, Silith's obsession is to end her grandfather's suffering, and Onion's obsession is to kill Yhorm... All the undead have their own obsessions."

"So Ego chose to commit suicide after confirming that Saint Irina had become the Fire Keeper, because his obsession had been shattered, and not wanting to become a zombie, he could only end his own life."

"After Anri took revenge on 'Eldridge,' she fulfilled her obsession, but she still wanted to find Horace, who had long since become a zombie. In the end, she became a zombie in Smoked Lake."

"After successfully defeating Yhorm, Onion Bro will also commit suicide in Yhorm's palace, having fulfilled his obsession."

"After killing her grandfather, Silithus fulfilled her own obsession. So she hoped to become a Knight of the Embers, giving herself a new obsession. But after the Embers killed all the Lords of Cinder, her obsession was gone again, and she ultimately chose to commit suicide."

"If Ember were an immortal, then his obsession with rekindling the fire would be sufficiently explained! But this only applies to immortals, and Ember is not only 'remnants' but also a transmigrator; he shouldn't have such a strong obsession!"

Klein's thoughts raced; he seemed to have grasped something crucial, yet it also seemed to have slipped through his fingers.

The Embers were originally Undead, heroes who, despite being unworthy to become Lords of Cinder, resolutely threw themselves into the First Flame. But the Embers are different from the Undead; their deaths are not accompanied by the loss of humanity. Although they share the Undead's obsession, this obsession is not about "linking the fire"!

According to the old thief's calculations, the true ending of Dark Souls 3 is neither linking the fire, nor usurping the fire, nor extinguishing the fire, but taking the fire!

Although the embers of the stolen fire are worthless, this is the only one of the '4 endings' that has no achievement but still includes narration—

Those were nameless, unborn, and cursed undead. But perhaps that's why the ashes so thirsted for embers!

"Given 'Ember's' obsession, his final fate should have been to seize the flame! And as a transmigrator, the situation becomes even clearer. Putting myself in his shoes, what would I do? I might usurp the flame, extinguish it, or even seize it, but I would never pass it on!"

So why is he so insistent on passing on the torch? And where does his obsession with passing on the torch come from?

"Even from another perspective, if I were Ember, I would try my best to achieve a perfect ending where everyone survives. And no matter which assumption you take, linking the fire is an impossible choice!"

"If we think along the lines of conspiracy theories, then the 'obsession' of linking the embers to the flame was likely instilled by someone else. But who instilled this obsession? The Goddess of Night?"

"No, that's unlikely. If she were truly the Goddess of the Night, she would have given Ember detailed information directly, allowing him to kill the god without any further action. Instead, she's searching for clues like this, which is just a waste of time. So, rather than wanting Ember to link the fire, she's more likely deliberately stalling for time, delaying or even preventing Ember from linking the fire at all."

"But if we look at it from this perspective, what if the Goddess of Night is helping him by preventing the Embers from linking the flame? Wouldn't that indirectly prove that linking the flame itself is a conspiracy?"

"The only question is, whose conspiracy is this?"

Klein frowned. The awakening of Ember in this world was no coincidence. The Emperor's diary also mentioned the existence of Dark Soul, which meant that there was more than one 'undead' who had traveled to this world.

Whose conspiracy was this matter of passing on the fire?

This question isn't actually that complicated; you just need to know which god benefits from linking the First Flame. For example, in the Dark Souls series, the gods undoubtedly benefit from linking the First Flame. Could it be that some god is hiding within the world of the painting, secretly orchestrating everything?

It's not impossible, but unfortunately, he currently lacks sufficient information and evidence to analyze an accurate answer. Even if he could analyze an answer, he wouldn't have enough evidence to claim it, let alone convince Ember.

The Emperor's diary should contain reliable records, since he also knew about "Passing the Flame" and was exploring its secrets. However, collecting diaries containing these secrets would be no easy task.

"but……"

A glint of light flashed in Klein's eyes. If all of this was truly a conspiracy, then the Ember's obsession with "linking the fire" must have been instilled by others or other gods, and it must have been used by someone!

So...

Klein placed his hands on the table and asked in a leisurely tone:

Have you ever thought about why you want to pass on the torch?

Upon hearing this question, Ember's expression became incredibly resolute, and he answered without hesitation:

"To save everyone."

Klein muttered it to himself, initially thinking nothing of it. But upon closer reflection, a chill ran down his spine, a fear that seeped into his very bones. At the same time, it only strengthened his conviction—

There must be a huge conspiracy behind all of this!

He didn't know what Ember had gone through, but based on his understanding of the Dark Souls world, he could say with certainty that linking the First Flame absolutely could not save everyone! Rather, linking the First Flame couldn't save anyone at all, including the gods who were the beneficiaries of linking the First Flame!

Because as time goes by, the First Flame will eventually die out, and the Deep Sea Age will eventually arrive. Moreover, in the world of Dark Souls 3, even cross-dressers have been eaten by the Devourer!

For the dwarves, linking the fire was a complete hoax, just as the dark serpent Kass said:

King Gwyn deeply feared the darkness. He worried that the fire would be extinguished, feared those who belonged to the darkness, and worried that a Dark Lord might be born among mankind, fearing the cycle of fate. Therefore, he continually passed on the fire, commanding his children to lead and bind mankind, making them forget everything, live in a daze, and prevent the birth of a Dark Lord!

It's understandable that the original inhabitants of the Dark Souls world were deceived by the gods and couldn't see the truth. But surely Ember, a transmigrator, couldn't also be blind to all of this?

If he could see through all of this, why was he so fixated on linking the flame? Or was he truly following the path of linking the flame, or some other path?

Klein tapped the table lightly with his fingers and said in a gentle voice, "Perhaps you should think about this issue again."

Seeing the questioning look in Yu Jin's eyes, Klein remained silent, only responding with a smile. After all, it was merely his speculation, without any evidence. Moreover, he knew the saying "the more you say, the more mistakes you make"—what if he said something wrong? Wouldn't that expose him?

The private conversation ended there, and the others, whose senses had been blocked, gradually regained their senses. They were undoubtedly incredibly curious about the exchange between the 'three'. However, they also knew that in Tarot, equal exchange was paramount. If they wanted to know the content of the conversation, they would have to pay a price.

"Miss Justice".

"The Magician" Fors eagerly looked in Audrey's direction and asked, "I heard you can provide 'loan' services for members of the Tarot Club?"

"Yes."

Miss Justice nodded and said, "However, I don't have much money at the moment, less than five thousand pounds. Considering that other members may also need it, I can only lend you three thousand pounds at most."

She had already guessed that the "Magician" was Miss Fors, and she knew Miss Fors's financial situation perfectly well. Although she was relatively wealthy among the middle class, it was still a drop in the ocean compared to the enormous expenses required by extraordinary individuals.

"only?"

"Not there?"

"Five thousand pounds?"

Fors and Hugh exchanged a glance. Even though the gray fog obscured their expressions, they were certain the other's was troubled. After all, Fors could only scrape together 2500 pounds even if she sold the house.

Even the Fool and the Hanged Man had their cheeks twitch slightly.

That's five thousand pounds, not five hundred pounds! Why can Miss Justice talk about it as casually as five pence?

All I can say is, rich women are really tempting!

Fortunately, this wealthy woman was from their tarot club.

Klein thought for a moment, then spoke in a somber, hoarse voice, controlling the 'world':

"Keep an eye on the Thousand-Faced Hunter's mutated pituitary gland and blood, as well as the characteristics of the Human Skin Shadow and the Deep Sea Naga's hair. Of course, I might also need some help from Miss 'Justice'."

Although he'll be a long time before he fully digests the 'Magician' potion, it's essential to gather the necessary main ingredients in advance. While he doesn't have the money to buy them, Miss 'Justice' does!

"It's just borrowing money, right? The 'Magician' can borrow, but the 'World' can't? In other words, banks don't offer this kind of loan service, otherwise I'd be willing to borrow until the banks go bankrupt." Klein thought to himself.

"sure."

Audrey nodded demurely.

Her father, Earl Hall, was a renowned banker in the Kingdom of Rune, ranking among the top three wealthiest bankers in the country. As Earl Hall's daughter, Audrey could not inherit the family business, but she did inherit Earl Hall's 'talent' in the banking industry.

However, she wasn't earning interest from her "lending" at the Tarot Club, since she didn't really care about that small amount. What mattered most was making the members of the Tarot Club owe her favors.

Although she might not need these favors, it's better to have them than not. As Emperor Roselle said: having no sword in hand and having a sword but not using it are two different things.

However, Mr. World seems to be short of money too. Even as a member of the divine family, is he still troubled by these worldly things? Hmm, thinking about it carefully, it seems that the only two people in the entire Tarot who are not troubled by money are himself and his "lover".

The usually taciturn "Sun" Derrick raised his hand and spoke:

"I've been assigned a mission to explore that half-destroyed temple I mentioned before, the one by the Fallen Creator, in the near future."

"The leader in charge of this operation is Elder Shepherd Lovia."

Do you have any suggestions?

Derrick spoke somewhat nervously, briefly explaining the situation he was about to face, and then looked expectantly at the others for advice.

"My suggestion..."

"The Hanged Man," Alger, replied almost without hesitation, "My advice is absolutely not to go!"

"really."

Klein nodded silently, his advice being to stay as far away as possible and prioritize stability.

The sun paused for a few seconds, then said with difficulty:

"However, the mission must be accepted."

The Hanged Man chuckled softly:

"Nothing is absolutely necessary."

Before this mission, will you still participate in patrols? Find an opportunity to deliberately let the monster injure you.

For specific details... you can refer to past examples from Silver City.

"Well, if you don't have any patrol opportunities lately, you can also pretend to be close to losing control... or rather, bring yourself to the brink of losing control. The method is simple: all you need to do is keep your spirituality in a relatively dry state for two consecutive days, and you will experience auditory hallucinations and signs of losing control."

"This method isn't exactly safe, but it's not dangerous either. As long as you don't continue to exploit their spirituality, the situation will improve within a week and won't truly spiral out of control. Of course, your Silver City must have methods and measures to treat those showing signs of impending loss of control, so recovery should be even faster."

"Therefore, I suggest you estimate the time carefully, preferably starting two or three days before departure."

Derrick, the "Sun," listened in stunned silence, his mouth agape, unsure of what to say.

As a spectator, "Justice" immediately gleaned a message from "Sun's" eyes and actions:

"Is this even possible?"

"Mr. Hanged Man"

Hugh couldn't help but ask, "How come you're so skilled?"

The Hanged Man seemed to have anticipated this question and replied frankly, "I'm not an expert; I just happened to know it from a notebook."

The Sun was initially hesitant; after all, he was a good boy, and lying wasn't something he easily accepted. But the Hanged Man, clearly experienced in this area, quickly dispelled the Sun's psychological barrier—

Just like before, eliminating Miss Justice's psychological barrier to assassinating the ambassador.

The title of political commissar is truly well-deserved.

Under the careful tutelage of the "Hanged Man," the "Sun" solemnly nodded and said:

"I see"

"Thank you, Mr. Hanged Man."

Both "Justice" Audrey and "Magician" Fors suddenly felt the urge to cover their faces with their hands.

The Hanged Man nodded silently, as if to say, "This child is teachable."

But finally, Alger looked at Ember and asked, "I've recently made some new leads regarding the slave trade. Mr. 'Lover,' would you like to speak with me privately?"

"Need not."

Yu Jin shook his head; he didn't think it was something that needed to be kept secret.

"it is good."

Alger nodded and continued, "Regarding the slave trade related to 'Captain Mad,' I can confirm that it has been going on for at least three years. During these three years, many indigenous tribes in the Southern Continent have been plundered and everyone has been kidnapped."

"Even on plantations and in islands at sea, large numbers of slaves mysteriously 'escaped.' Some busybodies have estimated that the number of these missing people is at least one million!"

Alger emphasized solemnly, "It's at least a million! You have to understand, some primitive tribes go unnoticed even if they 'disappear,' and some might even deliberately hide them. The real number is definitely higher than that; I even suspect it could be more than double!"

"The Kingdom of Rune has been quite lax in its attitude towards this situation. They have conducted investigations, but each time they have only dealt with them hastily. Until recently, they suddenly claimed that these things were done by the Aurora Society and joined forces with other kingdoms to wipe out the Aurora Society in the Southern Continent."

"During the clearing operation, a large number of people went missing."

Alger paused for a moment, then cautioned, "With a much higher frequency and on a larger scale than in the past three years, large numbers of natives have been plundered! And the various kingdoms are claiming that this is an act of retaliation by the Aurora Society."

"Meanwhile, some people witnessed a large number of merchant ships heading towards the Southern Continent in the Stormy Sea. Judging from their route, their destination should be East Bairan. However, no one has seen any trace of these ships in any of the ports of East Bairan. Only later, some people saw a large number of merchant ships heading towards the Kingdom of Rune in the Stormy Sea."

"Among these ships, one of the escorting vessels was identified as the flagship of 'Admiral Disease,' the 'Black Death.' And some of the 'merchant ships' were also identified as belonging to notorious human traffickers."

"Of course, the person who witnessed all of this was undoubtedly hunted down. But he was extremely lucky to slip into a special route in the raging sea, successfully escaped, and then spread this information widely afterward."

"..."

Klein's expression twitched. Although the Aurora Society was a cult, it was a bit too abstract to pin all the blame on them... What? You're saying these are all things the Aurora Society has done?

Oh, that's okay.

However, judging from the current situation, the Kingdom of Rune is probably in a hurry. Although they have already plundered over a million slaves, these people are still far from enough compared to the massive project of excavating and restoring the nine mausoleums.

Previously, the Aurora Society helped transport slaves conveniently and secretly through the world of painting, which meant that almost no one had discovered many clues.

But now that the middleman, "Mad Captain," has been killed and the world of painting has been destroyed, the Kingdom of Rune has lost its means of secretly transporting slaves. It can only use the pretext of eliminating the Aurora Society to plunder people on a large scale and make a final, decisive sale.

However, without the help of the world of painting, large-scale slave transportation would inevitably arouse suspicion. Of course, the Kingdom of Rune wasn't stupid. Even if these 'merchant ships,' or slave ships, arrived in East Bairan, they would certainly have used private ports.

This is why some people saw a large number of slave ships heading to East Bairan, but never saw these ships enter the docks at any port.

However, this would inevitably point the finger at the Kingdom of Rune. Even with the full force of the state apparatus to cover it up, it would not be able to hide it for long.

On the other hand, while the sudden and urgent need for slaves in the Kingdom of Rune certainly has the element of problems in the world of painting as a factor, doesn't this also indicate that their goal is about to be achieved? Is the excavation and restoration of those nine tombs nearing completion?

Once these mausoleums are fully restored, George III will probably hold his enthronement ceremony, right? Judging from the current situation, this won't be short; otherwise, they wouldn't have resorted to seizing so many slaves—it's an attempt to speed things up. But similarly, this time won't be too long either; otherwise, there would be no need to rush the process.

"I see."

After a moment of contemplation, Yu Jin slowly said, "Thank you for the information, but from now on, let's suspend the investigation into the slave trade. They probably won't continue to plunder people from the Southern Continent."

For Ember, now that he knew about the Black Emperor's ascension ritual, the investigation into the slave trade seemed less important.

"it is good."

Alger nodded without hesitation.

Although he didn't know as much information as Ember and Klein, he actually thought the same thing. After all, since the Kingdom of Rune had already begun large-scale plundering of people regardless of the risk of exposure, it was highly unlikely that they would do it a second time. Even if they continued to investigate, they wouldn't get much information.

Klein glanced at Ember, intending to have 'The World' give him a hint if he didn't realize it.

But judging from the looks of it, I don't need to say anything more.

……

Backlund, Hillston Borough, 117 Burningham Road.

Yu Jin opened his eyes, turned over and sat on the edge of the bed, his dark eyes deep and weathered. He was still pondering the words of "The Fool" at the Tarot meeting. Or rather, this was the first time he had begun to think about it—

For the immortals, obsession is both the driving force that propels them forward and the rein that keeps them in their rationality.

The same applies to the embers.

Passing on the flame was his obsession, as natural as breathing. Just as he wouldn't ponder why he breathed without reason, he wouldn't ponder why he wanted to pass on the flame.

But now, he suddenly realized something: what had created his obsession?

Onion Bro's obsession is to kill "King of Giants" Yhorm, because it is his promise to Yhorm.

If he kills Yhorm, he will commit suicide in Yhorm's palace.

But if he fails to end his old friend's suffering, he will continue his journey because he has not fulfilled his obsession.

Hillis's obsession is to kill her grandfather, because it's a promise she made to him.

He promised to kill him if he went berserk.

Ego's obsession was to protect, because he had promised to protect the saint Elena.

What about yourself?

Where does one’s obsession with passing on the fire come from?

Ember quickly found the answer: to save everyone.

Everything seemed to make sense, yet it also seemed like a castle in the air with fatal flaws.

"Perhaps I really should go to Remburg."

"Embers muttered to themselves."

Remnburg, the headquarters of the Church of God of Knowledge and Wisdom.

The captain of the Golden Dream, Vice Admiral Edwina, once invited him to Remburg, claiming that the answer he had been searching for might be there.

Although it's uncertain whether it's true or not, it's at least a possibility; perhaps that place really can resolve my confusion.

The only problem is...

Lundburg does not border the Kingdom of Loen.

Having been in this world for so long, Ember has learned some history.

He knew that the world was not peaceful, and that there were often upheavals and wars between countries.

More than 600 years ago, a religious war broke out in the southern kingdom of Feneport.

The southern kingdom of Feneport originally worshipped both the Earth Mother and the Goddess of Knowledge and Wisdom. However, under the influence of some unknown factors, a serious conflict arose between the two churches, and clashes frequently occurred between believers. It is said that the "unknown factor" causing this turmoil was a certain object.

Its two northern neighbors, the Kingdom of Rune and the then-Kingdom of Intis, seized this opportunity, using the pretext of protecting religious freedom, to start a war. Later, the Fusak Empire joined in, attempting to thwart Rune and Intis's schemes, but still failed to reverse the situation.

As a result of the war, the countries of Lunburg, Masic, and Segal, located at the borders of Rune and Feneport respectively, and Intis and Feneport respectively, gained independence and began to worship the god of knowledge and wisdom. Meanwhile, only the Church of the Earth Mother Goddess remained within the kingdom of Feneport.

Because both sides accused each other of breaking the sacred oath made at the end of the Fourth Age, the five-year conflict was also known as the "War of the Oath-Breaking".

Perhaps due to historical ties, these three kingdoms have a good relationship with the Kingdom of Rune, and can even be considered allies. Unfortunately, Runeburg is located at the border of southern Intis and Fennepot.

The shortest route from the Kingdom of Rune to Lunburg is through the Kingdoms of Massi and Feneport. However, the relationship between the Kingdom of Rune and the Kingdom of Feneport is far from amicable.

After all, the kingdoms of Massi, Lenburg, and Segal were all separated from the kingdom of Feneport due to the intervention of the Kingdom of Rune.

Of course, he could also detour through the Republic of Intis to the north to reach Lenburg. However, while this would avoid the Kingdom of Feneport, it would also waste a great deal of time.

Moreover, Ember wasn't planning to head to Lenburg right now; seeking answers was important, but with the Black Emperor so close, he had no reason to let him go.

"The only question is, should I wait until George III becomes the Black Emperor before I make my move?"

Yu Jin seemed to be deep in thought. He left the house and went out onto the street.

Even without deliberately looking up, one can see the magnificent palaces layered upon each other and the towering Gothic clock tower in the distance. That is the highest area in the entire Backlund, and also the location of the Loen royal family.

Its status in the north and south continents, and in the whole world, is equal to or even slightly higher than that of the White Maple Palace of Intis and the Olmir Palace of the Fussac Empire, but its name is neither romantic nor ancient.

It is called Sodrak Palace, and in Old Fusak, the word means "balance".

And George III was there.

……

Sodrac Palace, Queens.

Wearing a crown, with a resolute face and a small mustache, George III sat on his throne, gazing coldly at the man below.

"You mean not only can't we save Celt, but Chunas has also gone missing?"

"I think so, Your Majesty."

Prince Grove, dressed in a formal suit, draped in a cloak, and with extremely long toes, dressed in a style out of step with the times, smiled wryly.

The Crimson Curse afflicting Celt was beyond the control of even the two royal angels. They could only watch helplessly as it grew stronger within Celt's body, though it wasn't going to kill him yet, it was only a matter of time.

Thinking of this, a hint of fear and trepidation flashed in Grove's eyes.

You have to understand, Celt is a demigod no matter what! Even if he's only at Sequence 4, he's already at the level of a half-human, half-god, and there's not much of a fundamental difference between him and Sequence 3!

And since that unknown crimson curse could threaten Celt, it must also pose a threat to him!

Less than three months have passed, and the once high-spirited Celt has been tortured beyond recognition. Despite being a demigod standing at the pinnacle of the extraordinary, he is now unable to even lift a finger!

Every time he tried to use his power, the curse within him grew stronger, which only brought him closer to death. Even so, the crimson curse had already permeated his entire body, and he probably wouldn't last much longer.

Needless to say, Chunas was originally in charge of the slave trade dealings with the Rose School. However, since he left for the Sunya Sea two months ago, he hasn't received a single reply.

He disappeared without a trace, as if he had never existed!

"Have you found out who did it?"

George III asked in a deep voice.

Within just three months, two demigods belonging to the royal family have run into trouble, which has undoubtedly dealt a heavy blow to the entire royal family's power. After all, the royal family has not cultivated many demigods over the years.

The fact that this happened at such a critical juncture has made even King George III somewhat anxious.

"not yet."

Prince Grove's expression was somewhat bitter. "According to Selt, the intruders at Capin Villa that night were a werewolf and two ghosts, which seems to be the work of the Rose School. We've captured quite a few Rose School members hiding in Backlund, including some werewolves of Sequence 7."

"But no matter how we interrogate them, they know nothing and have no knowledge of the scarlet curse. Perhaps only the higher-ups of the Rose School have the opportunity to obtain this information, but the higher-ups of the Rose School are not so easy to capture."

"As for Chunas, we don't even know if he's alive or dead, let alone where to begin investigating. After all, his voyages were conducted in secret, and even Emilius didn't know his whereabouts."

Emilius Levitt, Admiral, is the Kingdom's Supreme Naval Commander in the Middle Sunia Sea. If Chunas had sought his help when he went to the Sunia Sea, the situation might have been very different.

But what he did was shady, and even the Navy Admirals were kept in the dark. So even if Quinas sought help from pirates, he couldn't possibly ask Emilius for help.

Even if he did seek help from pirates, he couldn't possibly reveal his identity to them. This undoubtedly provided excellent cover for his actions, making it impossible for anyone to find any clues.

However, this has now become a major obstacle in the investigation by the Ruen royal family.

"Isn't there even a shred of good news?"

King George III's voice was extremely faint, and his expression was incredibly cold.

"have."

Prince Grove immediately said, "Just a few days ago, a series of murders in Hillston was solved, and Westville claimed that the killer was a wanted murderer. But in fact, the killer is a demon dog."

"The one who killed it was a passing wild Extraordinary. The Night Watchers of the Church of the Night sealed off the scene immediately, and the body was also obtained by the Church of the Night. But the Extraordinary from MI9 glimpsed the full appearance of the demon hound, and its body was also covered with a scarlet substance."

"Furthermore, during the psychic encounter, it was discovered that the one who killed the demon hound was also a dog. And according to the subsequent investigation, a werewolf was seen lurking in the vicinity that night."

After a pause, Prince Grove said solemnly, "We suspect that the group that made this move is the same group that attacked the Capin villa. MI9 is already investigating the identity of that werewolf, and we believe we will have results soon."

"Hurry!"

King George III nodded slightly and instructed, "We must get ahead of the night watchmen and not let the Church of the Night discover anything."

"clear."

Prince Grove solemnly declared, "I will personally intervene!"

He knew that George III was referring to the diaries and letters in the Cappin Villa, the contents of which, if exposed, would bring shame upon the royal family. Therefore, they had to be the first to catch these Rose School rats and destroy the stolen documents before the Church of the Night could.

However, Prince Grove also looked puzzled.

The case of the Capin Villa remains shrouded in mystery. They have no idea why Capin was killed, and can only roughly guess that he may have inadvertently offended the Rose School, which led to his demise.

Otherwise, it's impossible to explain why the other party, after obtaining that damaging information about the royal family, didn't come to cause trouble for so long.

If the orthodox church obtains this information, they will confront the royal family. If it is obtained by some clandestine organization, they will also use this opportunity to extort money from the royal family.

But the Rose School did nothing, as if they had never obtained this dirt. This truly puzzled Prince Grove, who could only conclude that the Rose School were all lunatics, and that lunatics' ideas were always different from ordinary people's, so it was normal that he couldn't understand them.

"His Majesty."

Prince Grove thought for a moment, then asked hesitantly, "What should we do about the Aurora Conference?"

King George III glanced at him but did not answer; instead, he fell silent.

Originally, their plan had nothing to do with the Aurora Borealis, but the Aurora Borealis happened to have a painting-like world there, which could make their plan more covert. Considering the complexity and meticulous requirements of the plan itself, the royal family ultimately chose to cooperate with the Aurora Borealis.

However, they had never allowed the Aurora Society to delve too deeply into this plan. Firstly, the Aurora Society members were all madmen, and they didn't trust them. Secondly, involving the Aurora Society too deeply might cause misunderstandings within the Witch Cult. Compared to those madmen, the Witch Cult was clearly much more reliable.

That's why the royal family deliberately included the Witch Cult in the slave trade. Firstly, it served to counterbalance the Aurora Society, and secondly, it demonstrated their trust in the Witch Cult.

But now things are different; their slave trade network has suffered a series of blows. First, Capin, the sales agent, ran into trouble, then the Mad Captain in the middle, and even the demigod Chunus Korg, who was in charge of everything.

However, at this point, the impact isn't actually that significant. As long as the Aurora Society is willing to continue lending the Painting World, the trade network can be restored to operation in a short time.

The Aurora Society, however, strongly opposed this, claiming they had no more world to draw from. Whether true or false, the royal family had no choice but to believe it.

At this point, it was thought the Aurora Club would withdraw, but unexpectedly, these madmen wanted to deepen their cooperation. They somehow learned of the ruins' existence and even offered to help the royal family excavate them. As a result, the royal family suddenly found themselves in a dilemma.

Let's cooperate. I don't trust those crazy guys from the Aurora Club; I'm afraid they'll cause trouble behind the scenes.

If we don't cooperate, we'll be even more worried about those crazy guys from the Aurora Club. If we're rejected, they'll definitely cause trouble!

But since they chose to cooperate with a madman, this is the consequence they were bound to bear.

"We cannot allow them to enter the ruins."

King George III said in a deep voice, "But don't provoke them. Find something for the Aurora Society to do, anything at all! Don't they want their god to descend? Agree to it! Just say it will take time, and tell them to wait patiently!"

"it is good."

Prince Grove nodded without hesitation.

The descent of the "True Creator" is not a secret; it simply requires immense pessimism, despair, numbness, resentment, and primal evil. Only Backlund, only the East End, the Factory District, and the Docklands, can fulfill His requirements.

This process would inevitably lead to the deaths of a large number of people. But compared to the elaborate ascension ceremony meticulously prepared by the royal family, this was utterly insignificant! Or rather—

This is a necessary sacrifice.

……

"He cannot become a god."

A tall woman with long chestnut hair stood by the window and spoke in a gentle but emotionless tone.

Her eyes were a deep, azure blue, as if they contained a condensed ocean. She possessed outstanding beauty, but that wasn't what was most striking. What truly impressed people was the natural nobility she exuded in her demeanor and the air of a person who had long held a high position.

The woman looked up at the sky, where the setting sun shone brightly in the west, a rare sight in the mist-shrouded Backlund. Though night had not yet fallen, she could still see the bright, clear blue full moon in her vision.

"He cannot become a god!"

As if emphasizing something to someone, the woman repeated, "It can't be a black emperor. I will stop it all, even if it takes all my strength!"

The woman's eyes were incredibly firm, and her tone was unwavering, even though she was facing a deity.

"Of course, he won't become a god."

The petite doll wearing a wide-brimmed, pointed mage hat responded to her.

The woman looked down at the doll sitting on the windowsill; she was so small that a gust of wind could blow her away.

Even so, the lady dared not relax or be careless in the slightest.

Because this is a genuine one—

Demigod.

"He will not become a god, nor will the king link the fire."

The doll looked up at the bright full moon in the sky, its voice soft yet carrying an undeniable air of authority.

"Your will."