It was a rare, honorable opportunity. If Pahana's worthless father could witness him now, he'd surely regret abandoning him and his mother.Pahana understood Aria could have chosen not to give him the merits. She could have chosen to continue enslaving him like the other fortune tellers. Yet, she chose to honor her promise, compensating him for his efforts.If all humans kept their promises like Aria, creatures like Pahana wouldn't harbor such deep hatred that they'd want to devour them.Approaching Aria, Pahana was ready to repay her generosity by renewing the blood pact. However, Aria stopped him. She wasn't interested in complicating things further. Who knew where she'd be a century from now? There was no point in binding herself to a lizard—especially when the river was so polluted.Her eyes darkened. "No need. Just stop eating humans and keep an eye on the river. You saw how I handled things. If you don't want to end up as grilled lizard meat, behave.""Ms. Carver, don't worr
Sam had always been by Aria's side during her bouts of self-doubt. That was why she had always prayed that Tobias' ominous prediction would never come true.Before he vanished, Tobias had warned her that if Chaos reemerged, it would wreak havoc across the world. And when that moment arrived, Aria would need to steel herself and eliminate it.But Aria disagreed. To her, Sam was like family. He would happily carry out her every request as long as he was rewarded with a bit of food. How could such an earnest and loyal companion be a threat?Sam was undoubtedly righteous, just somewhat slow to react. How could he possibly bring chaos to the world?Aria could only dismiss the grim rumors as baseless. Either that or Sam had been misled by someone else.Pahana had once told her that Sam had a previous master. He was still young then and couldn't yet distinguish right from wrong. It must have been that previous master who failed to teach him properly.The notion that Sam could be a dange
The old man glanced at William and spoke sharply. "What went wrong with the seal?"William bowed his head, unable to provide a clear answer. "The rumors about the Daley family emerged from nowhere. We tried to suppress the information while investigating the source, but all efforts were futile."Nobody knew who the Daley family had provoked, only knowing the higher-ups were the ones giving orders. Plus, the entire case was executed quickly and privately. It was as if someone was targeting the Daley family. "The case wasn't investigated using normal procedures at all. I can't reach out to the Daley family without risking exposure. I'm afraid someone might recognize me. "If I'm identified, all our hard work over the years will unravel. And now, the matter has already been brought to light online, putting us in a precarious position."They had used a lot of energy and time to ensure their plan was executed perfectly. Their actions had gone unnoticed for the past few years. Howeve
Furrowing his eyebrows, the old man moved his fingers as if counting something. "That's weird, then."It was the same issue as before—he couldn't predict anything about Aria. If she had some ties to Homer, he should at least catch a glimpse of it. At best, she would only be Homer's apprentice. Yet, she remained an enigma beyond his foresight, shielded from even his most refined techniques.If someone was backing her, how did they conceal her from his visions? And why?The recent downfall of the Daley family was equally perplexing. It had been executed so seamlessly that no one even noticed until it was too late. The Daleys had served the country well, earning enough merit to secure the higher-ups' protection. But despite this, they were wiped out overnight.This incident triggered a memory—the old man recalled an organization he had encountered in passing—the Special Missions Unit.The unit was not affiliated with any government, yet it was always a step ahead in hunting down spie
Something had fallen to the ground, and a small shadow began to stir behind the curtains."She's not only hindering you but me as well," came a voice that sounded like that of a little girl. Yet, it carried an unsettling, unnatural tone, more akin to the mechanical chatter of those dolls."How could she return?" Behind the curtain, the shadow's long hair seemed to extend at an unnatural speed, growing longer by the second.The entire mansion was cloaked in an eerie atmosphere. The butler at the door stood trembling, yet William appeared almost euphoric as he bowed low and said reverently, "Morwenna, you've finally regained yourself!"The wooden doll named Morwenna let out a mocking laugh. "Regained myself? Is this what you call recovery?"The shadow behind the curtain trembled, and the lights overhead flickered ominously."We anticipated years ago that she would disrupt everything, that the Carver family's plans would crumble," Morwenna hissed. "And yet, you let her return!"A l
The child's fate was not merely at odds with his own—it actively threatened it. On that fateful day, the old man had been plagued by dreams from a distant past, visions long buried in the sands of time. It became clear that his unnatural existence, suspended between life and death as a half-human, half-ghost, was tethered to the very essence of that unborn child.A shadow crossed his eyes as he clenched his fists. "Perhaps I should have altered my perspective earlier. It's time to take a proper look at that child... the one I couldn't read, no matter how hard I tried."Morwenna's voice, filled with venom, cut through the silence. "The Carvers have always been a thorn in our side. They were a problem then, and they remain one now. We should've eliminated that woman before she could interfere."The old man shot her a sidelong glance. "You need to keep your presence hidden in Farshya. Stop drawing attention by appearing in their churches. I've told you before not to provoke the Farshya
"But he does look familiar." This was the first time Morwenna had such a feeling. It was as if the man from the York family was even more noble than her. Before him, she felt like a nobody. The idea of that provoked Morwenna. She was a deity from Krowo, so who was he to make her feel this way? "I think you should find a chance for me to meet that guy from the York family sometime." Morwenna met the old man's eyes. "The Yorks are the true noble family when it comes to protecting the nation. They've just been focused on commerce for the past century, which made us overlook them. The Yorks might be helpful to us." "I'll look into it." The old man glanced aside. "But why haven't you completed the tasks I assigned?" William stepped forward and said, "Sir, I came to bring good news. We've located the celestial essence you sensed earlier. Rest assured, we'll present it to you soon." "Good." This was the first time the old man showed satisfaction in days. "Before you bring it, inve
After the old man said those words, the clouds outside began to churn, and the clear sky suddenly turned dark. People on the street quickened their pace to seek shelter from the rain. Only a black motorcycle cut through the fog like a blade, heading straight for its deepest part. As Aria tracked Sam's energy, she stopped near a roadside café. It was a circular outdoor plaza with lawns and food trucks. They were colorful and beautiful. But despite the pleasant scene, Aria could smell blood hidden beneath the tranquility. This was different from anything she had smelled before. No ordinary bloodshed would draw so many wandering spirits from all directions here. The blood was mixed with Sam's energy. Aria had never seen such chaotic energy so exposed in all these years. She rarely worried about anything, but this time, she pulled the black chain from her waist. To others, it looked like a thin decorative waist chain. However, the other end held the Emperor Coins. Its cold yet fl
Following the maid's lead, Aria walked through an ornately decorated hallway. Traditional lamps adorned both walls, casting a gentle glow. They had turned on the lights early as sunset approached. Though partially hidden by large clusters of roses, the place did not seem too dark at all. Instead, they filled the air with floral fragrance. The villa maintained its original architectural style. Sunlight filtered through intricate window lattices onto the floor. The complex yet elegant patterns on the vintage carpets complemented the surrounding décor, which was a clear reflection of the owner's refined taste. During turbulent times, Clyde had studied in Nobeeta. Their mansion showcased masterpieces everywhere. Throughout their walk, the maid kept studying Aria. She had initially expected Aria to be someone unsophisticated. She'd also wondered why Cecil Woody's colleague would dress so casually and bring a child for a medical visit. But now, she appreciated Aria's discerning e
Landon did not say no to Aria's suggestion. In his current state, visiting the Grishams would not be wise, especially not with Sam around. If Landon continued to stay in the car like this, it would only drive Chaos to madness. As Sam got out with Aria, his eyes remained fixed on Landon. Aria noticed this. "What's wrong? Did you see something?" Sam gestured with his small hands. "He's even more dangerous now! Whoever crossed him is going to suffer!" "Others will suffer?" Aria asked. Sam nodded, so Aria said, "Ah, then there's nothing to worry about." After all, others would suffer instead of Landon. After Sam took a few steps, he looked back. He felt that the man's energy was strangely familiar. It felt just like someone he trusted the most and was the closest to. Sam thought he must be going crazy to mistake his boss like this. He shook his head and hurried to catch up with Aria. Even while working the case earlier, she had not forgotten to buy him fried chicken. Now th
Landon hadn't known Aria had investigated him before. Hearing her comment, his gaze shifted toward her. "You wanted to see my photo, right?" Before Aria could respond, he added, "Was it because of our engagement? Did you just want to see if I met your standards?" "Actually..." Landon chuckled softly. "There's no need to look. Your taste might be questionable anyway." Aria was speechless. She wondered who had upset him. No one had provoked him—he simply had some unpleasant memories that had been somewhat enriched by his encounter with Sky. Combined with his soul fragment in Netherrealm, it was natural for him to feel agitated. Whoever borrowed his power must have burdened him with considerable karma. Realizing this, Landon closed his eyes, trying to calm the surging darkness within. Aria wasn't some naïve and dramatic woman who would throw a fit when her boyfriend was upset. On the contrary, as a doctor, she could discern someone's condition from their breathing patterns up
Landon had indeed become a little different than usual. The closer he got to where his soul was, the stronger the evil energy around him grew. Someone in Ludwiten was exploiting the power of his soul fragment, which he had previously lost. How foolishly reckless that person must be. Landon toyed with the rosary bracelet on his wrist, his fingertips almost translucent in their paleness. He could not recall any past dealings with the Draycotts. However, after so much time, certain memories might have faded. Sam sat beside him, visibly annoyed at Aria's arrival. He gestured emphatically. "That talking crow disappeared again! Next time I catch it, I'll skin it first." The crow had actually been Landon's wandering soul from Netherrealm. It wondered if Chaos ought to regain some clarity. Even if the tribulation had scrambled his mind, shouldn't he still recognize friend from foe? Since he was always threatening to eat the crow, it wondered what would happen if he met the Cerulean
Evening fell at the Draycott residence. Orion found himself at his wit's end as everything seemed to spiral out of control. Even the arrangements with the Grisham family had fallen through, and he couldn't fathom what Priscilla had done to cause it. Priscilla felt wronged. "Who knew the Grishams were such two-faced people? I can't believe they actually went back on their word after agreeing so readily! That old fool is digging his own grave!" "If he actually dies, what leverage would we have over Richard and Waymond? Can't you just think before you speak?" Orion gripped his phone, his face flushed with anger. "Also, clean up that mess at your medispa immediately. If it affects the Draycott family, you're finished!" Priscilla's face hardened. "You're always criticizing me, but where would your operations be without my medispa? Don't forget who cultivated those girls' vanity—it was me!" "Fine, fine, it was you. I don't want to argue. Just find a way to get closer to Fiona and
"It's because I'm a burden to my two sons." Clyde's final words left Waymond speechless. Waymond said seriously, "Dad, you're not a burden. As you wish, I'll turn down the Draycott family's suggestion to bring Dr. Farrow in." Clyde nodded with a smile. "Good. This way, even if I meet your great-grandfather after death, I can tell him I didn't mess up."Waymond, however, didn't smile. He could see Clyde's life force fading right before him.Clyde glanced at him. "As for the Carver family, I still stand by my position. We shouldn't change our vote because of old grudges.""The Chamber of Commerce was founded by Barron and overseen by your great-grandfather. They were like brothers, never hesitating to act when the country needed them most."They risked their lives to negotiate, especially Mr. Warren Senior. He even lost his temper before the Krowonian merchants to save your great-grandfather. "The Chamber of Commerce only existed because of his efforts to ensure people weren't
After his thoughts were laid bare, Waymond didn't try to hide them. He looked up and spoke firmly. "Dad, I can't bear to see you coughing up blood. And even if we don't agree, Orion will still get what he wants. The Draycott family is too powerful now.""Are you going to let him have his way?" Clyde's voice was sharp, his chest heaving as he coughed violently. "I've told you time and time again what the Chamber of Commerce was meant to be."It was founded to provide for our people during times of national crisis, to help those in need!" He leaned heavily on his cane, struggling for breath.Waymond couldn't help but respond, "Times have changed, Dad. Look around. People's lives have improved. They don't need our help anymore. Businessmen have always sought profit and looked out for themselves."If I go along with the Draycott family's suggestion, I know the Chamber will fall into the hands of outsiders."But they've made their choice. They think we're blocking their path to profits
Clyde nodded in acknowledgment, though his eyes betrayed deeper thoughts as he looked down. Priscilla stayed in the Grisham residence for coffee and some pastries before leaving. She arrived with several bags and left with just as many, a routine she was accustomed to and handled with confidence.The Grisham family was at the mercy of the Draycott family when it came to finding a doctor, and Priscilla had an inkling that the Grisham residence might one day be hers.Before getting into the car, Priscilla glanced back at the rose-covered walls. Her face, entirely altered by plastic surgery, was filled with longing, though no one noticed. …On the second floor of the Grisham residence, in the vintage study, Clyde had been sitting by the window since Priscilla's departure.He needed his medication. Without it, he wouldn't be able to eat, given his current condition.Waymond could tell Clyde was lost in thought, perhaps reminiscing. His wife had mentioned that Fiona seemed differ
Priscilla was only adding fuel to the fire. How could a daughter neglect to visit her father? She had purposefully hidden the fact that Fiona had sought her out. Worse, she ensured no one else would reveal it by spreading the word to keep the truth buried.The Draycott family wouldn't openly discuss the matter either. Their response was measured and cautious."This is a private affair of the Grisham family. It’s best we don't involve ourselves or risk blame falling on us. Family disputes are difficult to judge as outsiders. Besides, if our comments upset the Grishams, it could harm our relationship."With the Draycotts steering clear, no one else dared intervene. It wasn't worth jeopardizing their ties with the Grishams or the Chamber of Commerce. And truthfully, none of the families wanted Fiona to reconcile with her estranged family, given the current power dynamics.In reality, Fiona had visited the Grisham residence once, but internal family tensions had kept it under wraps. Wa