Mystery: The Witch of Desire

Livr listened with a smile, occasionally asking well-timed questions to elicit information, and quickly extracted a great deal of useful information:

For example, today is March 14, 1349, about a year and a half since she entered the Mirror World; for example, the intricate division of gangster forces in the eastern district of Backlund, and the underground conflicts and entanglements; for example, the current politics and factional struggles in the Kingdom of Loen, and the royal scandals circulating among the people; for example, the hidden conflicts of interest between the Kingdom and the Indis Empire, and the competition among various parties in overseas colonies; for example, the popular novels and plays in Backlund, and celebrity gossip, etc...

As Valentine recounted his story, Livre gradually learned more about this capital city and also realized a problem: as the capital, Backlund, except for the eastern district, implemented a strict household registration system, and without a legal identity document, it was often very inconvenient to do things.

Liviel has decided to stay in Backlund for a while. Although a year and a half has passed, she caused quite a stir back then, and the official Extraordinary Ones are likely still after her.

Furthermore, although she is now in female form, her features still bear some resemblance to her previous appearance as a woman and a man, so someone who has seen her before might still recognize her. Moreover, if the Night Watcher enters her dream, her secret will be exposed.

Furthermore, with her parents and brother dead, she had no ties left in Tingen. Aside from seeking revenge against the Night Watchers, there was no need for her to return. Settling in Backlund seemed like a better option. As the world's largest city, Backlund undoubtedly possessed richer resources in the field of mysticism, and she might be able to secure a promotion more quickly there.

Dunn Smith and Daly Simone are Sequence 7, and there are many other members of the Tingen Market Nightwalkers who may have also advanced after a year and a half. Without reaching Sequence 6, it would be difficult to have a chance to successfully take revenge.

"The most important thing right now is to advance to Sequence 6—Pleasure!"

However, gathering intelligence on Tingen City is also very important, as Livre is also somewhat concerned about the aftermath of what happened back then.

She pretended to be nonchalant and said somewhat lazily:

"Backlund is much safer. There have been quite a few disturbing riots in other provinces over the years."

Valentine immediately chimed in, deeply moved:

"Yes, the shipyard explosion in Intersea County, the fuel leak at the East Chester County fuel plant, the workers' strike in Dixie County, and the terrorist attack that happened in Ahowa County..."

Livre feigned surprise and said:

“There have been terrorist attacks in Akhova County, haven’t there? I have a distant aunt who is from Akhova County.”

“Of course!” Valentine couldn’t wait to show off. “This happened a while ago, and the scale of the damage wasn’t that large, so you probably haven’t heard of it. It was a terrorist organization calling itself the Aurora Society that carried out a series of attacks in Tingen, Akhova County, including arson, bombings, and contaminating drinking water, resulting in the deaths of hundreds of people!”

"If causing a few hundred deaths is considered not that large-scale, then how many casualties must those other accidents have caused... Wait, what the heck is the aurora? Wasn't the sacrificial ceremony in Tingen conducted by the Rose School?"

Liviel thought with some shock, but outwardly remained calm and said:

"The Aurora Society? It sounds like a beautiful name. Did they really carry out the terrorist attacks in Tingen?"

Valentine patted his chest and guaranteed:

"Of course! I clearly remember that the day after the accident, the Aurora Society claimed responsibility for the incident in the newspapers. If they didn't do it, why would they claim responsibility? Wouldn't that be crazy?"

Livre nodded upon hearing this, finding Mr. Valentine's words quite reasonable. It seemed that this Aurora Society either had some mental issues or had some important connection with the Rose School.

Liviel clearly leaned towards the latter; a secret organization couldn't possibly be mentally unstable, could it?

Amidst laughter and cheerful conversation, the carriage arrived at Paria, east of the Georgewood district.

Baria is a comprehensive entertainment complex that combines dining, bars, dance halls, theatrical performances, and even some subtle erotic services. Such entertainment complexes are very popular in Backlund, even more so than individual bars or dance halls.

The carriage stopped in front of the four-story, domed building, and Valentine smiled ingratiatingly:

“Ms. Monroe, would I have the honor of inviting you to lunch here? They are a regular customer of mine, and their creamy mushroom and seafood stew is very authentic.”

Liviel nodded slightly upon hearing this, not refusing Valentine's invitation. After all, she had traveled all the way to Backlund in his carriage, and it would be too impolite to refuse. Besides, she could also take this opportunity to learn about the popular entertainment in Backlund.

However, if Mr. Valentine wants to engage in any inappropriate activities after dinner, Livre wouldn't mind giving him a little punishment.

Thinking of this, Livre looked at Mr. Valentine's burning gaze and revealed a somewhat charming smile.

She herself was quite troubled by this, because with this female body, just a slight smile would reveal a charming and alluring demeanor, as if she were exuding charm everywhere.

Overjoyed to receive an affirmative answer, Mr. Valentine immediately stepped off the carriage, roughly pushed away the attendant who tried to lift the curtain, and took the initiative to do so himself.

Livre stepped down from the carriage, attended by the mushroom merchant, and cast her first glance at Backlund:

The streets, paved with bluestone slabs, are wide and flat, stretching far into the distance. Various shops line both sides in a well-organized manner, and pedestrians come and go in a constant stream, including well-dressed gentlemen and ladies as well as busy working people. Overall, it is much more prosperous and bustling than Tingen.

"This is just the Joewood district, where small and medium-sized companies are concentrated. I can't imagine how grand Queens and Hillston must be."

With a sigh, Livre entered Paria under Valentine's guidance, while his servant went to a small restaurant nearby for lunch.

The Paria has four floors: the first floor is a restaurant, the second floor is a bar and dance hall, the third floor is a small theater, and the fourth floor is accommodation.

At this moment, the restaurant on the first floor was almost full of customers, mostly well-dressed couples. The dishes on the tables were exquisite and tempting, which was enough to prove that this restaurant was expensive.

A waiter approached warmly and said apologetically:

"I'm very sorry, sir, our seats are full and you and this lady may have to wait a while."

Upon hearing this, Livre looked around. Although the restaurant was crowded, there were clearly several empty tables side by side, located in the best corner of the restaurant.

Valentine coughed dramatically and said:

“I am Valentine Wright, who has business dealings with your restaurant. Your boss, Mr. Bright, knows me. Not all of the reserved tables have been booked, have they? Please give me one.”

The waiter looked at Valentine with a look of realization, as if he had indeed seen him before, and then said politely:

"Please wait a moment, I'll go ask my supervisor."

With that, the waiter turned and walked away with quick but steady steps.

Valentine then patted his chest and said to Livre:

"Don't worry, Miss Monroe, I have quite a few connections here, they will give me face."

Liviel smiled and nodded, vaguely sensing that a familiar scene from her previous life—a pretentious act of showing off and getting slapped in the face—was about to unfold.

Just then, the waiter returned, accompanied by a well-dressed head waiter wearing a red tie.

"It's Mr. Valentine."

Valentine waved his hand dismissively, a broad smile on his face, and said:

"Joey, we're all old friends, no need to be so polite. Which table should we sit at? Preferably somewhere quiet."

However, the manager named Joey gave a dismissive smile and then rattled off a string of words:

"I'm so sorry, Mr. Valentine, but a lot of the mushrooms you sent last time have rotted. Our boss said that if you dare to come again, he'll have me and my men kick you out and give your ass a good kick. I think you'd better leave on your own, so as not to make things difficult for us."

Livre stood aside, completely unprepared for this turn of events. She glanced at Mr. Valentine, who stood rooted to the spot, his cheeks flushed red, looking furious.

After a long pause, he finally spoke, somewhat stammering:

“Joey, I will definitely compensate Mr. Bright for the mushroom incident. Now, I just want to dine here. Please arrange a table for me.”

He suppressed his anger, his tone even carrying a hint of pleading.

This is the last vestige of dignity a middle-aged man has in front of a beautiful young woman.

Unfortunately, Joey didn't seem to have any intention of giving him that courtesy. He pointed expressionlessly to the front door and said, word by word:

"Don't make me say it a second time, get out now."

Valentine was struck dumb by these words and stood there, trembling violently.

He didn't listen to Joey, but stood rooted to the spot like a nail, as if that was his last act of defiance.

Livre couldn't help but have a bad feeling. Valentine seemed to have lost his mind under the immense humiliation and was very likely to do something impulsive.

She quickly grabbed Valentine's arm and activated the instigator's ability:

"Mr. Valentine, let's go. I really want to eat a Dixie pie and have it with a sweet iced tea. I wonder if they sell them on this street?"

Under the influence of his persuasive abilities, Valentine's expression softened somewhat. He nodded and obediently followed Livre out the door.

At that moment, Joey suddenly called out to Livre:

"Wait a minute, beautiful lady."

Upon hearing this, Livr turned around and looked at Joey with a wary gaze.

Joey didn't do anything offensive. Instead, he pulled out a flyer and handed it to Livre, saying in a friendly manner:

"I see you have an exceptional presence. Coincidentally, our theater in Baliya is currently casting for female lead roles. If you're interested, you're welcome to audition. And..."

He glanced at Valentine and said with a look of disdain:

“A woman as outstanding as you should be careful in choosing her male companions, lest she lower her own value.”

Upon hearing this, Valentine trembled violently again, revealing a pained expression.

"You don't need to trouble yourself with that."

Livre responded coldly and pulled Valentine out of Paria.

Somewhat dejected, Valentine went to a street stall and bought two Dipsy pies and sweet iced tea, then sat down on a bench with Liver and they ate together.

"I'm sorry, Miss Marilyn, I'm such a useless man, I've made you laugh at me."

Livre, however, smiled and comforted him, seemingly unconcerned:

“It’s nothing. I’m already very grateful that you gave me a ride and treated me to dinner. How could I possibly laugh at you? Mr. Valentine, thank you for your hospitality. The Dipsy pie was really delicious.”

As she spoke, Livril took a big bite of the juicy Dixie pie and revealed a sweet, comforting smile.

Valentine, who was standing to the side, felt a sudden warmth in his heart when he saw that smile. He was so moved that he almost burst into tears. He felt as if a holy angel was shining before him, and he felt extremely ashamed of the blasphemous thoughts he had had towards Livril.

Valentine quickly reached out and grasped Livre's wrist tightly, his voice filled with excitement and earnestness:

"Thank you, Miss Marilyn! I will work even harder, and one day I will become the Mushroom King, renowned throughout Backlund!"

Then, he shook off his previous dejection and frustration, instantly becoming radiant and speaking at length:

"I have long been aware of the many problems plaguing the current mushroom farming industry. Fungi are extremely perishable, suffer significant losses during long-distance transportation, and are difficult to store and preserve, which is why we are in this situation today. If we could improve the strains, select superior traits, and optimize cultivation and storage methods..."

Livre listened quietly to Valentine's story with a smile on her face, occasionally offering her own opinions based on the knowledge of a modern college student, making Valentine feel even more like he had met a kindred spirit.

Chapter 105 Miss Marilyn Monroe must be an angel!

Even after Valentine's servant emerged from the small street-side restaurant, burping contentedly, the two were still engaged in lively conversation, showing no sign of stopping.

About half an hour later, Valentine stood up and reluctantly took Livre's hand to say goodbye.

"Miss Marilyn Monroe, you are such a beautiful and kind angel. Praise be to the goddess! May she always protect you."

Liviel instinctively wanted to draw a crimson moon on her chest, but suddenly paused, feeling something was amiss:

"No, the Night Watchers murdered my entire family, why would I want to praise a goddess? I must be insane!"

She switched to drawing the triangular holy symbol and said calmly:

"Thank you for your blessing, Mr. Valentine, but I am not a believer in the night."

Valentine, oblivious to Livre's unusual behavior, continued with a sigh:

"You have given me tremendous encouragement today and have also given me many practical suggestions. To be honest, I have always had a dream of starting my own company, which is to no longer simply engage in mushroom resale, but to create a complete industrial chain from research and development to production and sales."

As he spoke, a hopeful light shone in his eyes:

"For a long time, this dream could only be kept in my heart, and I dared not even imagine that it could come true. But now, because of you, I have the courage and confidence. I will immediately go back to prepare for the company's establishment. Even if it is small at the beginning, I will continue to work hard to develop it gradually. In addition, to express my gratitude to you, I will give you one percent of the shares free of charge after the company is established."

Livre was somewhat surprised and waved her hands repeatedly, saying:

"That won't do, I can't take your shares for nothing..."

Valentine stated firmly:

"No, your advice was invaluable and fully justifies my payment to you, not to mention your encouragement and comfort to my soul. Your help is entirely worth these shares!"

"You're quite generous..."

Liviel thought with amusement, but she didn't like taking advantage of others, so she carefully said:

"Here's what we'll do: once your company enters the financing stage, I'll also give you some investment, so that I can openly hold shares in your company."

Valentine was deeply moved upon hearing this, and tears welled up in the corners of his already wrinkled eyes.

"Miss Marilyn Monroe, you are truly an angel... Forgive me, goddess, but in my heart, you must perhaps give way to Miss Monroe..."

He left his address with Livre, and the two agreed to stay in touch. Only then did Valentine reluctantly depart with his servants.

Liviel was happy to do so. In order to find the potions and materials needed for her advancement, she would definitely need a lot of money, and investing in other people's companies was undoubtedly a good way to make money, although there would be some risks involved.

"In Tingen, having tens of thousands of pounds would make you a very wealthy person, but in Backlund, the wealth of those big businessmen is probably in the hundreds of thousands of pounds or even more. With their financial resources, they could certainly easily buy the potions and formulas needed for advancement. However, high-sequence mystical materials are probably not something that money can buy."

As Livre pondered, she took out the flyer that Joey had given her. She hadn't taken it out earlier so as not to provoke Valentine.

[Baliyah, seeking one female lead actress]

We provide systematic training and stage performance opportunities. If you perform well, we can arrange for you to play the lead role in a play and hire writers to create plays tailored to your needs.

Room and board are provided. The apprenticeship salary is two pounds per month, and the salary after the official debut is four pounds per month, with a share of the performance income depending on the situation.

Looking for unmarried, young, beautiful women with an elegant figure. Preference will be given to those with acting experience and those who are open-minded and easygoing.

Liviel read the flyer and felt that the conditions offered by Baria were quite good. Moreover, she was now a real actress; she wondered if playing this role would help her better master the skills of an actress.

The last sentence on the flyer sounded a bit like a marriage proposal, or rather, a recruitment of lovers. However, it's normal for actresses to have high appearance requirements, and popular actresses generally can't have public husbands or lovers, so Livre didn't pay too much attention to it.