Chapter 625: Alliance
Within a few seconds, the unique Mirror appeared before Edwin and sent a ray of dazzling yellow light directly toward his head.
Simultaneously, Head Deacon Colt descended from the sky and asked.
"What's your original name?"
"Mathew Jonas." An instant reply came from Edwin's mouth, causing Head Deacon Colt to relax.
'The mirror is not turning red.' He felt relieved inside and continued to ask.
"Where and when were you born?"
"13th July, Second Arcane year 6338. I was born at Shephred's Village, Duke Winder's territory, Arc Kingdom." Edwin's reply was so swift and calm. In truth, the one speaking to Colt was not Charles's original consciousness but a new one created with memories of Edwin himself!
So, this new consciousness truly believed that he was Edwin himself and responded calmly.
For the next few minutes, Head Deacon Colt asked multiple random questions and finally relaxed his guard.
"Tsk, do you know how worried I became when I got the news that you got injured and captured by some random noble's son?" Colt said with a worried voice and soon shook his head.
"Now, tell me. What are you scheming with this mage?" He asked while pointing his finger at the young boy standing a few feet away.
On the other hand, Edwin shook his head and spoke.
"It's more like a temporary agreement, father. As long as we agreed to his request, he promised me that he would not only help us get Victor's artifact but also give us the location of another treasure in the third layer and might find a way for you to become a Cardinal."
'Cardinal...' It was more like a dream for every Order Church higher-ups, so Colt was indeed tempted.
"But why should we believe his words?" Still, he wasn't convinced by Edwin's words and asked.
Charles gave him a polite smile at that moment, stealthily cast [Curse of the Overlord] spell, and spoke.
"You can use the Mirror to check if my words are true."
Head Deacon Colt's eyes narrowed as he considered Charles's proposition. The Mirror was a powerful artifact that could reveal the truth by reading the opponent's thoughts and gathering information from the outside world. It had been passed down through generations within their Order and was known for its unwavering accuracy.
'Even if he uses a puppet clone to talk to me, it can influence reality and confirm his words directly.' He was well aware of how powerful mystics like him could create other consciousnesses to conceal their true thoughts and pondered.
"Fine," Colt conceded, his voice laced with caution. "But if you're lying, you'll face the consequences."
Charles nodded, his expression remaining composed. He understood Colt's skepticism and knew that gaining his trust wouldn't be easy. Nevertheless, he was confident in his intentions.
The Mirror floated before Charles, emanating a soft, pulsating light. With a wave of his hand, the Head Deacon activated its power, causing the Mirror's surface to shimmer and ripple like water.
At the same time, he started asking questions.
"Is the information you told us about the other artifact true?"
"Yes," Charles responded.
'No response, which means he is telling the truth.' Colt nodded inwardly and asked the next question.
"How are you going to help us? You know only selected people can enter the Star Tombs, right?"
A smile crept on Charles's face.
"I've my ways." He kept his words short, causing Colt to furrow.
'He really can enter the Star Tombs? Who is backing him?'
"Who are you working for?" He couldn't help but ask in cautiousness.
"None. I'm only after benefits." Charles's words made Colt fall into deep thoughts.
'Hmm, he must have bribed any of those church's higher officials to get a seat. If he is a roaming mage, then it's easy for us to kill him later.' He thought.
"But what are you after?"
"I'm mainly after the Legendary Magical Beasts." That was Charles's main goal, so the Mirror didn't react.
"Moreover, there is no reason for you to reject my proposal, Mr. Colt. The only thing I want from you after entering the Star Tombs is to keep updated about your location."
"How can I do that? Once we enter the Star Tombs, no communication method will work. Moreover, we will be transported to different layers." Colt asked in confusion.
Instead of responding, Charles calmly raised his hand, touched his face, and started to shapeshift.
"S-Shapeshifting? You are a member of the Royal Family?" He couldn't help but ask.
'Royal Family? If I'm not wrong, Lockwood should be the Royal Family of the Sacred Empire.' Charles paused for a moment and soon shook his head.
"I'm not from the Royal Family. My real name is Charles Nightwind, and this is my original look."
As Charles spoke, Colt noticed that the Mirror remained still and confirmed that this guy was telling the truth.
'Charles Nightwind... I never heard of such a name before. Who is he? I need to look into his background.'
While he was in deep thought, Charles started to speak.
"Now, if you want to pass on some information, just think of my face, the content you want to relay and say my name. Do it multiple times, and I'll be able to understand the content."
Upon hearing those words, Colt stared dumbly at Charles for a few seconds and spoke skeptically.
"Nonsense! I never heard of such a divine spell in my life."
At that moment, Charles suddenly received new information from Clot and broke into a wide grin.
"You sure are impatient, Mr. Colt. You are thinking about Holy See's thirteenth secret chamber where series artifacts are being sealed."
A strange chill, filled with goosebumps, crept up to his heart and caused his whole body to go numb.
Colt felt stuck by a lightning bolt and stood rooted on the spot for more than ten seconds.
'T-This... Who is this mage? He is not only mysterious but also appears more like a Godly figure. I need to be careful.' He was well aware of the mysterious ancient mage and decided to act cautiously.
"I appreciate your honesty, Charles," Colt said sincerely. "We share a common goal, and it seems we can benefit from this alliance. But let me be clear, any treachery or deceit will not be tolerated."
Charles nodded; his gaze was unwavering. "I assure you, Head Deacon, my intentions are genuine."
Unknowingly, Colt started to feel a strange sense of sincerity and honesty from Charles and decided to support him fully.
Colt then regarded Charles briefly before turning his attention to Edwin, silently observing the exchange.
"Edwin, you've shown remarkable judgment and resourcefulness in forging this alliance," Colt remarked a hint of pride in his voice.
"I trust your judgment in this matter but remember to stay vigilant. We cannot afford any mistakes."
Edwin nodded, his eyes gleaming with determination. "I understand, Father. I won't let you down."
At that moment, Charles thought of something and spoke.
"Also, keep Edwin's disappearance hidden until the expenditure is over. Call off all your men from Crystal Lane."
Colt thought for a moment and agreed.
With their doubts resolved and an agreement reached, Charles and Edwin bid farewell to Head Deacon Colt and left the woods by creating another portal.
On the other hand, Head Deacon Colt stood there pondering for a while and finally left.
...
The next day dawned upon the Holy City, its streets abuzz with an unusual air of excitement and anticipation. A bustling hub of activity had replaced the once-serene atmosphere. Adventurers, explorers, and mystics from far-flung corners of the world had flocked to the city, creating a vibrant tapestry of cultures and backgrounds.
While the grandeur and mysteries of the Star Tombs Dungeon were known only to the privileged few who could gain access, a multitude of individuals had gathered in the Holy City, eager to partake in the forthcoming beast waves that would ensue after the opening of the dungeon's entrance. The allure of magical beast remains, low-rank artifacts, and the opportunity to test their mettle against formidable adversaries had drawn them like moths to a flame.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation and the potential dangers lurking within the dungeon, the lawful Churches had set aside their differences and joined forces. They had rallied over a hundred thousand holy knights, forging a special defense force to safeguard the Holy City and its inhabitants. This unprecedented unity demonstrated the significance of the impending threat and the need for unwavering protection.
The impact of the Star Tombs Dungeon's opening had rippled beyond the city's walls. The nearby villages and towns had been evacuated days prior, and their residents relocated to temporary shelters within the secure confines of the Holy City. The authorities prioritized their safety, ensuring they were spared from the imminent perils that accompanied the dungeon's awakening.
The royal guards stood watchful and vigilant on the towering ramparts encircling the Holy City. Their steely gazes scanned the horizon, alert to any signs of danger. The weight of their responsibility was evident in their stern expressions and the poised readiness with which they held their weapons. Knowing the impending challenges, they were prepared to defend the Holy City and its inhabitants at all costs.
Within the Holy City's borders, the convergence of adventurers, mystics, holy knights, and the unwavering presence of the royal guards created an atmosphere tinged with excitement and tension.
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