Elsewhere in the estate's underground library, Sam sat with several old scrolls and decrypted ledgers spread before him. His spirit-sense was sharp now—more precise thanks to months of training—and it tingled with every turn of the page.
The corruption in Amande wasn't just political—it was arcane. The documents revealed that several noble families had formed a pact with a secret cabal known as the Obsidian Council, trading spiritual energy for power.
Sam (quietly):
"…They've been capturing spirit beasts. Draining them. Fueling dark magic…"
He gritted his teeth.
In the hallway, Ren—disguised with a human illusion charm—walked in, arms crossed, tail flicking beneath her cloak.
Ren:
"Took you long enough. I was wondering if I'd find you buried under books."
Sam chuckled.
Sam:
"I'm getting close. This Council… they're the real threat. The nobles are just puppets."
Ren leaned in, looking over his shoulder. Her eyes narrowed.
Ren:
"So what's the plan, scholar-boy?"
Sam stood, sliding the scrolls into his travel pouch.
Sam:
"We take this intel to Liselotte. She's the only one in a position to expose it… and with Jon out of commission, she'll need someone to act in his place."
Ren rolled her eyes, but there was a faint smile on her lips.
Ren:
"Then let's burn some corruption."
---
Meanwhile, in a quiet corner of the manor, Liselotte stood by Jon's bedside. She looked down at him, eyes soft but full of fire.
Liselotte (to herself):
"I don't care what you are or where you come from… Jon, I'll stand by your side. And I'll fight for a kingdom you can believe in."
Jon stirred slightly at her voice, a small smile tugging at the edge of his lips even in sleep.