Category: Miss Luo Yan’s Feet Are Buried With Corpses

Mister Zero, Her Story: Chapter 87 – The Saint

Regardless, Grandma Zoya concealed Luo Yan’s presence, and the thirty-two-member investigation team returned to Lannister.

On the way back, Grandma Zoya took the opportunity to ask Hua Qingling about Luo Yan.

After piecing together the information, she found an excuse to leave Hua Qingling in the forest and returned to Lannister with the rest of the team.

Upon arriving in Lannister, besides publicizing their successful mission, Grandma Zoya reported the more sensitive information to the highest authority.

Lannister wasn’t ruled by a City Lord, but by the Council of Elders.

Composed of twelve powerful families, each represented by a former or current family head.

Although weaker than Grandma Zoya, they were all of a similar age, their lifespans extended by special methods.

After deliberation, the Lannister Council decided to contact Yan City to learn more about the situation.

The Lannister team in Yan City had reported on the current situation, but as an auxiliary force, their understanding was limited.

For now, Lannister decided to treat “Luo Yan” as Yan City’s secret weapon.

Yan City quickly responded to Lannister’s request, but unexpectedly… it wasn’t a high-ranking official who answered the call.

When a familiar figure in armor appeared on the screen, the Lannister Council was surprised.

“Greetings, Lannister Council. I am the Knight-Captain of the Holy Church,” a muffled voice echoed from within the armor, a massive sword planted beside him. “I apologize, but Yan City, having just endured a war, cannot spare the resources to respond to your inquiry. Therefore, I will answer your questions on their behalf.”

The Council was silent for a moment, then the elder at the head of the table spoke.

“Greetings, Knight-Captain. May I assume that… Noah has taken control of Yan City?”

During such a sensitive period, even though the Holy Knights usually didn’t interfere in political matters, he couldn’t help but wonder.

“The Holy Knights do not represent Noah, Mister Norian,” the Knight-Captain turned to the elder. “If Lannister faced a similar crisis to Yan City, the Holy Knights would offer the same assistance.”

Norian—a small, wiry man with a shrewd, almost weaselly, appearance—was one of Lannister’s highest-ranking officials.

Even within the twelve-member Council, their status wasn’t equal, divided into several factions, and Norian was the most prominent among them, half of the Council’s magistrates being his loyal followers.

Of course, setting aside these political games, Norian was authorized to speak for the Council.

“If the Holy Knights can answer our questions, that would be most welcome.”

Norian exhaled, although inwardly, he was nervous.

Dealing with Yan City would have been easy, demanding information and offering aid in return.

But the Holy Knights… this was a different matter.

After reading Grandma Zoya’s report, the Council had already set its sights on “Luo Yan.”

To them, “Luo Yan” was a powerful weapon, wielding the Witch of Envy’s power.

If they learned she was Yan City’s secret weapon, and she was now in Lannister territory, they wouldn’t simply return her; they would acquire her, by force if necessary.

Or perhaps…

Not even that would be necessary.

Such intentions towards a unique individual like Luo Yan weren’t unusual, even “Noah” wasn’t above such considerations.

The reason the Holy Knights didn’t have such thoughts was because they answered directly to the Noah Holy Church, only to the Twelve Saints.

Of course, such schemes were unseemly and couldn’t be revealed to the Holy Knights.

“A girl named ‘Luo Yan’ appeared in Lannister, causing city-wide panic due to her ‘Witch of Envy’ aura. I believe you are already aware of this,” Norian said gravely.

“We want to know why ‘Luo Yan’ is in Lannister, why she carries the ‘Witch of Envy’s’ aura, and more importantly… is she harmless?”

The Knight-Captain didn’t answer immediately.

He was silent for a moment, as if choosing his words carefully.

Then he sighed.

“Saint… perhaps you should handle this,” the Knight-Captain turned to the figure beside him. “I’m not good at these… conversations.”

“Call me Elise… I am not a Saint.”

A cold voice echoed, and to the Council’s shock, a beautiful woman in a kitchen apron appeared on the screen, her expression indifferent.

“Greetings.”

Elise’s stiff, emotionless greeting was completely different from her previous playful demeanor, as if she were a different person.

But the moment she appeared, the entire Lannister Council stood up, their right hands over their hearts, bowing respectfully.

“Greetings, Saint, may your will be done.”

“…I repeat, I am not a Saint,” Elise frowned, her displeasure evident. “My name is Elise.”

So it’s Lady “Illusion”…

The Elders confirmed her identity.

“Sa… uh, Lady Elise,” Norian looked up nervously. “Your presence in Yan City… does it mean that…?”

A Saint leaving Noah for such a remote location… it couldn’t be a small matter…

And then there was the girl, Luo Yan.

Could that mysterious girl truly be…?

“I’m not a Saint, my presence in Yan City means nothing,” Elise interrupted him, her tone sharp.

“As for your questions, you don’t need to know. Just treat her as a guest from afar.”

“Huh? ‘Her’… you mean… Luo Yan?”

Norian’s face flushed, his mustache twitching. “You must understand, her appearance in Lannister has caused…”

“If you knew what almost happened in Yan City, you would realize how lucky Lannister is to have Miss Luo Yan, not Her,” Elise said bluntly.

“Stop scheming, Norian, don’t think I don’t know what you’re planning. I’ve been watching you all these years, I just haven’t bothered to interfere.”

Elise’s words silenced Norian, who stammered, sweat dripping down his face, but he didn’t dare argue.

If this were any other day, the Elders who opposed him would be mocking him mercilessly, but not now.

…Facing the Fourth Saint of the Twelve Saints, no one could do better than Norian.

The Twelve Saints of Noah weren’t revered just for their status, but for a much simpler reason… their power.

Over ten of the Twelve Saints were “Destruction” level ability users, and even the remaining two were just a step away.

And unlike Grandma Zoya, who had barely reached “Destruction” level, the Saints were truly humanity’s pillars.

Even Old Man Sword, compared to the Twelve Saints, was only around mid-tier in terms of strength.

A single Grandma Zoya was treated as an honored guest in Lannister, her suggestions taken seriously by the Council, let alone the Fourth Saint.

Fortunately, the Saints didn’t care about political struggles. They were called “Noah’s Saints” simply because they resided in Noah.

If Lannister replaced Noah, they would simply be called the “Lannister Saints.”

However, it was precisely because the Saints didn’t care about politics that “Illusion’s” presence in Yan City had made Norian so nervous.

This was why Elise had been reluctant to reveal her identity. Even Lannister’s highest authorities reacted this way upon learning of a Saint’s travels, let alone others.

After silencing Norian, Elise’s tone softened.

“Don’t worry, as long as you treat Miss Luo Yan like an ordinary person, she’s harmless—and I’ll be coming to retrieve her soon.”

“Yes, as you command, Sa… Lady Elise.”

Norian could only agree.

“E-li-se,” Elise frowned, emphasizing each syllable. “Not Saint. I am not a Saint.”

…Just drop the act, we all know who you are.

Norian suppressed his urge to retort. They were all aware of Saint Illusion’s peculiar habit.

Whenever she traveled using a “phantom puppet,” she would create a detailed backstory for it, from birth to the present.

—Although these backstories were rarely relevant, once Illusion’s true consciousness took over, it was easy to tell.

“One final warning, don’t try anything with her, absolutely not,” Elise’s expression turned serious. “I’m not protecting her, I’m protecting… you.”

Seeing her serious expression, Norian understood the gravity of the situation and replied,

“Rest assured, Lannister will follow your instructions and treat this young lady as an ordinary guest.”

Elise nodded, then closed the communication channel without any further pleasantries.

…She wasn’t one for pleasantries.

As the Saint’s image vanished from the screen, the Council members breathed a sigh of relief.

Even just an avatar, a mere image, the Fourth Saint’s presence had been incredibly oppressive, especially since she seemed to be in a bad mood.

Unfortunately… the chaos and the heavy losses caused by this girl named “Luo Yan” would have to be borne by Lannister.

Lannister was wealthy and could afford it, but it would still hurt, especially having to hire Grandma Zoya.

A “Destruction” level ability user’s services didn’t come cheap.

“Inform Grandma Zoya that we’ll allow this… Miss Luo Yan… to enter Lannister, and arrange accommodation for her,” Norian rubbed his temples. “A girl who carries the ‘Witch of Envy’s’ aura… A terrifying thought.”

“Is this wise? Why not maintain the status quo?” another Elder frowned. “There could be serious risks… Lannister has people from various mega-cities; any incident could trigger a diplomatic crisis.”

“The Saint herself guaranteed her safety and even asked us to treat her well. Do you want to argue with her?”

Norian glanced at the Elder. “Sir Snow, if you have the courage to face Lady Illusion, I can risk contacting her again.”

Sir Snow thought for a moment, then shrank back.

“I have no objections.”

This wasn’t cowardice, but respect for the Saint.

Constantly disturbing her rest wouldn’t be appropriate…

Illusion had already been a renowned expert before the Witch of Absolute Death war, her actual age far greater than any of the Elders present.

Therefore, her reprimands felt like those of an elder scolding a child… It was a strange dynamic.

“Anyway, let’s leave it at this for now and see what the Saint decides,” Norian shook his head. “She said she would come to Lannister soon to retrieve this Miss Luo Yan… That will be another headache…”

Hosting a Saint, even if she denied being one, was a troublesome affair.

“I’m curious about this mysterious girl… what kind of person could cause so much chaos…?”

A strange thought crossed Norian’s mind, which he quickly dismissed.

It was best… not to meet her…

…

Meanwhile, in the forest outside Lannister.

Luo Yan and Hua Qingling sat on the ground, reunited after a long separation.

…They mostly talked about Hua Qiling’s embarrassing childhood stories.

Of course, they also discussed more serious matters.

Hua Qingling, having only received fragmented messages, struggled to understand the full picture of what had happened in Yan City.

And Luo Yan, who knew the most, gave her a detailed account, including the cause and the truth behind the war.

After listening silently, Hua Qingling could only sigh.

She didn’t want to regret not being in Yan City, but the war, although unexpected, had been inevitable.

Mister Zero, Her Story: Chapter 86 – Song of the Soul

The ethereal song of the soul continued to resonate, its lullaby-like melody casting a strange sense of peace and enchantment over the forest.

If the figure hadn’t shown any hostility, the mental defenses of the investigation team would have crumbled.

Grandma Zoya, watching Luo Yan, felt beads of sweat on her forehead.

She had been trying to connect with Luo Yan through her soul, constantly sensing the ethereal song, her own mind feeling strangely soothed.

She couldn’t continue like this…

But this rare opportunity to glimpse the deeper aspects of mind-related abilities…

Grandma Zoya, although a “Destruction” level ability user, was far from the strongest.

Compared to Old Man Sword, another “Destruction” level ability user, she wouldn’t last a few seconds against him…

She had stagnated for far too long; she longed to see what lay beyond.

Luo Yan patiently waited for Grandma Zoya’s response, curiously looking at the animals around her.

These creatures, large and small, had surrounded her after she returned from the void.

Initially, she had thought they were hostile, but they were surprisingly docile, even lowering their heads for her to pet them.

But animals couldn’t talk, and Luo Yan couldn’t ask for directions.

And exhausted from her battle with the Witch of Envy, she had found a rock and rested.

Until she sensed a strong gaze and saw humans approaching, and she had rushed over to ask for directions.

But… was the old woman’s memory failing?

Luo Yan watched as Grandma Zoya’s lips moved soundlessly.

There seemed to be others nearby, but they were hidden within a mental mist… was there some danger in the forest?

With Luo Yan’s abilities, seeing through the mist wasn’t a problem, but it would be rude.

“Grandma?” Luo Yan waved her hand before the old woman’s face. “Do you not understand my language?”

“I understand…”

Grandma Zoya replied instinctively, then her eyes widened as she realized her recklessness.

The girl before her continued to stare, her clear, pale red eyes seemingly covered in a faint mist, without the terrifying aura of the “Eye of Fear, Envy, and Defilement.”

And she had mentioned Yan City…

Grandma Zoya calmed herself and asked gravely,

“Who are you?”

Luo Yan blinked.

“I… I’m from Yan City, my name is Luo Yan.”

Is this old woman always this cautious? I just asked for directions…

Grandma Zoya’s eyes narrowed.

…So Yan City had produced a monster comparable to a Primordial Demon?

At least in terms of power, this girl was on par with the Witch of Envy, although her true strength was unknown.

Grandma Zoya pondered for a moment, then looked at Hua Qingling, whose senses she had blocked.

If she remembered correctly, this talented girl’s hometown was that remote little…

Grandma Zoya released Hua Qingling from her mental hold.

After a moment of dizziness, Hua Qingling opened her eyes, a pair of pale red eyes meeting her gaze.

“…Big Sister Hua!”

Luo Yan’s face lit up, recognizing Hua Qiling’s sister emerging from the mental mist.

She had unconsciously used Anna’s name for Hua Qingling.

Hua Qingling nodded slightly.

“Hello, Miss Luo Yan… wait, Miss Luo Yan?”

Her eyes widened in shock as she realized who it was.

Was this… a dream? Why was Miss Luo Yan here?

“You… actually know each other…”

Grandma Zoya was speechless. She hadn’t expected this girl, who seemed like the Witch of Envy, to actually be from Yan City.

What was going on in Yan City?

Finally, she couldn’t help but ask Luo Yan, “Aren’t you the Witch of Envy?”

“Ah, me?” Luo Yan pointed at herself, then replied after a moment of thought, “Although there have been some… misunderstandings… I’m not the Witch of Envy.”

Recalling the Primordial Demon whose true name was “Hope,” Luo Yan felt a surge of questions.

But these questions would have to wait.

“But your power…”

Grandma Zoya looked at Luo Yan, uncertainty in her eyes.

At some point, perhaps when Hua Qingling awakened, the girl named “Luo Yan” had changed into a simple white dress, the crimson gown gone.

Had she imagined it?

Grandma Zoya wasn’t sure. The terrifying image of countless crimson eyes staring at her from the girl’s skirt was still vivid in her mind, but now, there was no trace of it on Luo Yan.

And…

Grandma Zoya suddenly realized that the feeling of a mind-related ability user at the peak of their power was also gone.

Not only that, but even the song of the soul seemed to have vanished, only the giant beasts surrounding them remained.

“She’s a Demonically Infected,” Hua Qingling answered, then couldn’t help but ask, “Miss Luo Yan, it’s been a while, have your eyes… recovered? And your power…?”

When Hua Qingling left Yan City, Luo Yan’s eyes had been in a critical state.

Her ability was completely uncontrollable, a single glance equivalent to facing the full force of “Envy.”

Clearly, that wasn’t the case now.

“Sort of… half-recovered…?”

Luo Yan wasn’t sure. The battle had just ended; she hadn’t had time to examine herself.

Nine’s gift of life, One’s sacrifice, rejecting the Witch of Envy’s whispers… she didn’t know what had changed.

“A Demonically Infected… this powerful…?” Grandma Zoya was shocked. “Even the for… I apologize, I misspoke.”

The fact that Dawn’s Misters were Demonically Infected was a secret, known only to a few, including Grandma Zoya.

But she didn’t know much about Demonically Infected. The Misters of Dawn were secretive, their rare appearances revealing little.

Ordinary Calamity Infected could be treated, their uncontrolled symptoms suppressed, but Demonically Infected… there were too few cases.

Perhaps the only ones who had survived to adulthood were Dawn’s nine Misters.

However, Hua Qingling seemed to be close to Luo Yan, so Grandma Zoya suppressed her questions, watching as they began to chat.

“But… Miss Luo Yan, how did you get here?” Hua Qingling asked curiously. “This is near Lannister, far from Yan City, even by lifeline, it would take two or three days.”

“I don’t know,” Luo Yan said, confused. “I was just fighting… the Witch of Envy… in the void… and then I ended up here.”

“…I don’t think Miss Luo Yan jokes.”

The void?

The Witch of Envy?

It sounded… far-fetched…

Even Hua Qingling, with her open mind, couldn’t quite accept such an outlandish claim.

“Anyway, it’s a long story,” Luo Yan said, twirling a strand of silver hair. “A lot has happened since you left… Hua Qiling was seriously injured.”

Hua Qingling was silent for a moment. “I expected that. That girl always pushes herself too hard.”

She rarely stayed in Yan City, rarely saw her much younger sister, but that didn’t mean she didn’t care.

Hua Qiling had been one of the reasons she had rushed back.

“By the way, who is this Grandma? And these people…?”

After chatting with Hua Qingling for a while, Luo Yan realized she had been ignoring the old woman and the figures shrouded in the mental mist.

Why were they here in the forest?

Could it be… because of her?

Recalling the events leading up to this, Luo Yan realized she might have caused a bit of a commotion.

Before Hua Qingling could introduce her, Grandma Zoya stepped forward.

“I am called ‘Zoya,’ a humble guardian of Lannister… my strength is… slightly above ‘Destruction’ level.”

She looked intently at Luo Yan, deliberately mentioning her strength, wanting to see her reaction.

A “Destruction” level ability user?

A level above “Peril,” the pinnacle of human strength, a pillar of humanity.

This was Luo Yan’s understanding of “Destruction” level.

And having met Nine, and briefly controlled One’s body, “Destruction” level ability users weren’t that mysterious to her.

Therefore, Luo Yan’s first reaction was…

—Respect.

She straightened up, lifted the hem of her skirt slightly, and curtsied, a perfect maid’s curtsy.

“Elder Zoya, it’s an honor to meet you.”

Grandma Zoya was stunned.

What did she mean by that?

Why that expression?

Was this some kind of Old Era etiquette?

And why was she bowing to her?

Grandma Zoya had expected Luo Yan, upon learning she was a “Destruction” level ability user, to either show indifference, even disdain, if she truly was the Witch of Envy, or nervousness and awe, like an ordinary person.

This reaction… was unexpected.

Fortunately, Hua Qingling understood Luo Yan’s thought process and tugged on her sleeve.

“There’s no need for such formalities, Miss Luo Yan, just treat her like anyone else,” she then turned to Grandma Zoya apologetically. “Miss Luo Yan is a bit… formal… please forgive her.”

“It’s… nothing,” Grandma Zoya shook her head and sighed.

“I was the one who was… It seems this situation is more complicated than I anticipated. This is beyond my ability to handle; I need to report this to the Free Federation.”

She looked at Luo Yan seriously.

“Miss Luo Yan—if I may, could you please stay here and wait for our decision?”

“Of course,” Luo Yan curtsied. “I apologize for the trouble I’ve caused.”

By now, Luo Yan realized that her unexpected arrival had caused some problems, so it was best to cooperate.

“It’s no trouble at all,” Grandma Zoya, relieved, smiled kindly. “To avoid any further complications, Miss Luo Yan, please wait in the forest for a while. I’ll have Hua Qingling keep you company later.”

“Alright.”

Luo Yan nodded and immediately walked deeper into the forest, the surrounding animals following her.

Seeing this, Hua Qingling couldn’t help but wonder, “When did Miss Luo Yan learn to control animals…?”

After Luo Yan disappeared into the trees, Grandma Zoya waved her hand, releasing the investigation team from her mental hold.

From Luo Yan’s appearance to this moment, only a few minutes had passed.

The team members, upon awakening, prepared to face the disaster, but were surprised to find that the red mist had vanished.

Grandma Zoya stood at the front of the group, seemingly deep in thought.

“Elder, is the matter resolved?” A straightforward ability user stepped forward and asked. “The Witch of Envy… has she left?”

The other team members also listened intently, waiting for her answer.

“…Yes,” Grandma Zoya nodded, feigning composure. “I have… temporarily repelled her.”

…Repelled a Primordial Demon?

The team members were shocked. They were experienced ability users, not easily fooled by Grandma Zoya’s “Destruction” level status.

It wasn’t a secret that Grandma Zoya was among the weakest “Destruction” level ability users, but even the weakest “Destruction” level ability user was far stronger than any “Peril” level ability user.

Therefore, despite their shock, their first reaction was disbelief.

There were limits to boasting…

“She hadn’t fully descended, merely cast a glance from afar,” Grandma Zoya flicked a nonexistent speck of dust from her clothes. “Although I’m old and frail, I can still repel a mere… gaze.”

Hearing this, everyone relaxed.

This explanation was much more believable, and from the current situation, the Witch of Envy had indeed left.

Flattery and praise filled the air, which Grandma Zoya accepted calmly.

Only Hua Qingling looked as if she had seen a ghost.

This old woman, lying so casually… without even blushing…

Mister Zero, Her Story: Chapter 85 – A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity

“I haven’t considered that yet,” Hua Qingling replied politely.

“Oh… if you’re interested, I can introduce you to someone,” Grandma Zoya chuckled. “Don’t let my appearance fool you, my youngest son is only eighteen.”

Hua Qingling almost choked, quickly changing the subject.

“…Thank you for your kindness, but it seems we’re almost there.”

Eighteen…

Meaning eighteen years ago…

Grandma Zoya was at least from the same era as Old Man Sword, probably over three hundred years old.

Quite… vigorous… for her age.

Hua Qingling’s face flushed as she recalled certain rumors, then she quickly composed herself.

It was normal for older people to have… unique hobbies.

Grandma Zoya, seemingly oblivious to Hua Qingling’s thoughts, continued to smile kindly.

She looked into the distance, where a faint red mist was slowly spreading.

“Young lady… do you think the ‘Witch of Envy’ has truly descended?” she suddenly asked.

Hua Qingling pondered for a moment, then shook her head seriously.

“I don’t know.”

Actually, she thought it wasn’t likely.

Yan City had experienced similar situations before, but they had never actually encountered the Witch of Envy herself.

And for a “Cataclysm” level disaster, the Witch of Envy’s descent wouldn’t be so… quiet.

This red mist’s range and intensity weren’t even comparable to the crimson mist during the Ghost Town incident.

Grandma Zoya looked at Hua Qingling intently and whispered,

“I, however… would like to meet… Her.”

“Hm?”

Hua Qingling paused.

“Just an old woman’s wish,” Grandma Zoya said, her hands clasped behind her back. “As everyone knows, the Witch of Envy’s power, ‘Envy,’ is the pinnacle of all mind-related abilities. My own progress has stagnated for far too long… I long to see what lies beyond…”

Hearing this, Hua Qingling thought of the mysterious girl, Luo Yan, whom she had met in Yan City. She had judged Luo Yan to be a Demonically Infected wielding the power of “Envy,” and although there were some inconsistencies, her assessment was likely correct.

A demonic power envied even by “Destruction” level ability users… possessed by a naive young girl… it was ironic.

“What, you disapprove of an old woman’s lament?” Grandma Zoya, seeing Hua Qingling’s distraction, raised an eyebrow. “I know the risks, I wouldn’t endanger others just to satisfy my own curiosity.”

“Of course, of course,” Hua Qingling quickly replied, snapping back to reality.

However… she had a feeling that this “Witch of Envy” descent was somehow related to Yan City.

Yan City’s communications had been disrupted by Dawn during the war, so the information she received was delayed and limited.

From this distance, Hua Qingling could only receive short messages, no details.

Although Lannister was a hub for information, such classified matters were beyond their reach.

As they approached the red mist, many of the “Peril” level ability users became visibly nervous, only a few remaining calm, or even excited.

Unlike Hua Qingling, who had experienced similar situations in Yan City, and Grandma Zoya, who might have even witnessed the “Witch of Absolute Death” war, most “Peril” level ability users had never encountered anything related to a Primordial Demon.

After all, the Primordial Demons had been dormant for centuries, dangerous Devil’s Apostles were practically extinct, and the few remaining Devil’s minions weren’t a major threat.

“Activate your defenses, prioritize mental and spiritual energy shields,” Grandma Zoya’s voice echoed in the minds of the team members, followed by a wave of calming spiritual energy.

Soon, the ability users were enveloped in colorful shields, mostly valuable, single-use items, essential for exploring dangerous areas.

Hua Qingling didn’t need these disposable shields; she was protected by Grandma Zoya’s spiritual energy field.

The investigation team cautiously advanced, their vanguard reaching the red mist.

To everyone’s surprise, the mist seemed harmless. The area it enveloped was unchanged, even emitting a pleasant, refreshing fragrance.

The surrounding plants even seemed slightly greener.

A few daring ability users deactivated their shields and experienced no ill effects.

“…What’s going on?”

Grandma Zoya, also surprised, frowned and reached out to touch the red mist.

It undeniably carried the Witch of Envy’s aura, but… it was harmless, even… beneficial.

It seemed to have a calming effect on the mind.

…What was this nonsense?

Even Grandma Zoya, with her vast experience, was puzzled.

She had expected, even if it wasn’t the Witch of Envy herself, at least a Devil’s Apostle.

Although insignificant compared to the Witch’s descent, it would still be a rare and significant event.

Hua Qingling was also surprised. She had seen the devastation caused by the Witch of Envy’s “Soul Eater” domain in Yan City’s District Two.

Besides the city’s destruction from the spatial rifts, the countless twisted monster corpses and the grotesquely mutated plants had left a lasting impression.

“Don’t let your guard down, keep your shields active. Perhaps… this is just a mental trap,” Grandma Zoya said cautiously, her own voice now hesitant.

She wondered if she had already fallen into the Witch of Envy’s spiritual domain, but everything indicated this was the real world.

But who could be sure that this wasn’t just an incredibly powerful illusion, even fooling a “Destruction” level ability user?

Mind-related abilities were unpredictable, and Grandma Zoya, a mind-related ability user herself, knew this well, her worry deepening.

She had been certain this wasn’t the Witch of Envy’s descent… but now, she wasn’t so sure.

But the investigation had to continue.

Grandma Zoya focused, her casual demeanor gone, her expression serious.

Only now could they see a hint of the imposing aura of this seemingly ordinary old woman.

As the team advanced, they noticed something else strange.

The small animals in the forest were fleeing in a certain direction, and some even recognized creatures thought to be extinct.

And beyond these fleeing animals, faintly visible in the red mist, were several large figures, seemingly giant beasts.

With so many strange occurrences, Grandma Zoya realized that even if it wasn’t the Witch of Envy’s descent, it was still a serious matter.

She immediately ordered the team to increase their pace.

She no longer had time for idle chatter with Hua Qingling, who now focused on her surroundings.

The red mist covered a large area, about two-thirds the size of a city district, a radius of four to five kilometers.

The investigation team, proceeding cautiously, took about half an hour to reach the center of the mist.

And what they saw there… stunned them.

An unbelievable sight…

Within the lush forest, several giant beasts, each at least “Peril” level, sat docilely on the ground, carefully avoiding the trees.

And the other animals, which would normally flee from these predators, were calmly gathered around them.

They seemed to be surrounding something, their expressions as if they were listening intently.

Predators and prey, all creatures, gathered peacefully, a bizarre yet harmonious scene.

What… were they doing?

Just then, someone in the team exclaimed,

“There’s… someone singing inside!”

Singing?

Grandma Zoya’s eyes widened. She immediately used her mental power to listen.

Indeed, a soft, ethereal singing voice echoed through the forest, its strange melody strangely captivating.

And in her spiritual vision, she saw a crimson figure sitting at the center of the gathered beasts, its back to them.

She… or perhaps He, seemed to sense the team’s presence and turned slightly.

“Don’t listen! Don’t look! Don’t speak!”

Grandma Zoya immediately used telepathy, sending her warning directly into the minds of all the ability users in the team.

At the same time, she used her mental power to shield Hua Qingling, blocking all her senses.

…Facing a Primordial Demon directly was incredibly dangerous.

Even without any malice, their incomprehensible form could shatter a person’s worldview, driving them to madness.

Only “Destruction” level ability users, and a few special “Peril” level ability users, could withstand it.

The team members, heeding Grandma Zoya’s warning, also blocked their senses.

Only Grandma Zoya kept her eyes open, staring intently at the crimson figure.

The moment she had longed for, the ultimate truth she sought… The anticipation made her slightly reckless.

She could have approached more cautiously, but she chose a more direct method.

Connecting with the figure through her soul, speaking to it through her soul.

The crimson figure stood up and slowly turned towards Grandma Zoya, the ethereal singing continuing.

It walked towards her, a faint, metallic tinkling echoing through the misty forest, a dreamlike sound.

The red mist parted, the surrounding beasts making way for the figure, gathering at its feet.

Finally, Grandma Zoya saw it clearly.

A breathtakingly beautiful girl, her youthful face framed by an elegant crimson gown, its folds adorned with small ornaments that, upon closer inspection, were crimson eyes.

Her long silver hair, streaked with red, cascaded down almost to the ground.

She stopped, her pale red eyes fixated on Grandma Zoya, the crimson eyes on her dress also turning towards her.

This beautiful yet terrifying sight almost stopped Grandma Zoya’s heart, but she held on, maintaining her mental focus.

…A rare opportunity.

A chance for a human to directly communicate with a Primordial Demon… This was practically unprecedented.

Even during the Witch of Absolute Death war, Noah hadn’t been able to communicate with her.

Such an opportunity was right before her, but she didn’t know if it was a blessing or a curse.

But she couldn’t miss it…

Grandma Zoya focused her mind and asked softly, using her soul,

“May I—”

“May I…”

Unexpectedly, the silver-haired girl spoke at the same time, using the common tongue, although her words were slightly stilted.

“I’m sorry, I just wanted to ask, is Yan City far from here?”

“…Huh?”

Grandma Zoya was speechless.

The silver-haired girl before her was Luo Yan, returned from the void.

After her battle with the Witch of Envy, there had been a slight… miscalculation… when she returned to the real world.

And the place she ended up… wasn’t ideal.

“You… you…”

Grandma Zoya stammered, unable to form a coherent sentence.

“Could the void’s coordinates have deviated to another world or time?” Luo Yan muttered, then rephrased her question. “Where is this? I seem to be… lost.”

Lost?

Grandma Zoya’s expression flickered. This girl looked exactly like the Witch of Envy! How could she be lost?

Although there were no widely known images of the Witch of Envy, as a mind-related ability user and an experienced “Destruction” level expert, Grandma Zoya had recognized her instantly.

Her aura, her power, the sheer level of energy she emanated…

More importantly, Grandma Zoya saw in her… the pinnacle of mind-related abilities, a feeling difficult to describe.

Mister Zero, Her Story: Chapter 84 – Disaster in Lannister

A piercing alarm blared through the mega-city, but it wasn’t Yan City. It was Lannister, five lifeline jumps away.

As a trading hub between the eastern and western continents, Lannister hadn’t heard such an alarm in centuries.

Generations had never experienced such alerts, commonplace in Yan City, so many Lannister citizens were confused.

Ordinary disasters weren’t a threat to the powerful Lannister. Even “Peril” level disasters, requiring Yan City’s full attention and even the Ice Coffin Weapon, were merely considered troublesome incidents in Lannister.

As for Dawn… even with all their forces, they couldn’t reach Lannister’s Ember Furnace cluster.

Lannister, a rival to Noah’s position as leader of the Free Federation, was incredibly powerful.

But… even the strongest, when facing a Primordial Demon’s descent, were just as vulnerable as Yan City.

A “Cataclysm” level disaster threatened all of humanity.

After several minutes of confusion, Lannister’s bloated bureaucracy finally identified the cause of the alarm and issued a recall order to all ability users on missions, including the elite team assisting in Yan City.

And after syncing information, Lannister realized, with despair, that this likely meant Yan City had lost its battle against the Witch of Envy.

The Witch had triumphed and was descending upon the real world.

And unfortunately, not upon Yan City, but upon Lannister.

Was it because Lannister was at the center of the world?

Or because… it was the most populous mega-city, filled with the sustenance she needed?

No one knew, but she had chosen this place.

After several minutes of the blaring alarm, even the most oblivious citizens understood.

Panic spread, and rumors of an impending “Cataclysm” level disaster, even a second “Calamity Tide” starting from Lannister, ran rampant.

Driven by fear, masses of people tried to flee, the lifelines overflowing, even some high-ranking officials boarded private lifelines, heading towards “Noah” for refuge.

Lannister, several times larger than Yan City, couldn’t maintain order like Yan City in the face of such an unstoppable disaster.

And lacking experience with such threats, Lannister descended into chaos.

However, Lannister was far more powerful and resourceful than Yan City.

Although some officials panicked and fled, most remained calm.

An emergency disaster response committee was quickly formed and began to address the situation.

Twenty minutes after the alarm, the first investigation team was dispatched to the location where the “Witch of Envy’s” aura had been detected.

Lannister also issued a call to arms, offering substantial rewards to any ability user willing to participate.

Even “Difficulty” level ability users would be handsomely compensated, although it wasn’t recommended.

As for Yan City, upon receiving this news… they suddenly found themselves… irrelevant.

Who would have thought that the battle in the void would end like this?

Although it felt wrong to say it, this was good news for the battered Yan City.

The reinforcements from other mega-cities began to return, even the Holy Knights, including Elise, departed for Lannister.

The bustling Yan City quickly quieted down, countless figures clearing the debris, the reconstruction efforts beginning.

Sun Biwu, rescued by Luo Yan, was hospitalized, but having been forcibly separated from the burning spiritual energy, he had lost his “Peril” level abilities.

But the good news was that he would live longer.

Lin Cheng, with less severe injuries, continued to work.

Li Ping’s condition wasn’t good. He wasn’t like the young Qin Wen, who could quickly recover from serious injuries.

His overexertion, combined with his age, and his continued efforts to direct the defense, had taken their toll. He was now hospitalized, in a similar condition to Hua Qiling.

Qin Wen’s condition had stabilized, the immediate danger to her life averted, but her mind and soul remained dormant.

The Sword Saint Sect Master, upon learning of this, had been silent for a long time, not exploding in anger as Lin Cheng and Li Ping had expected.

He had simply acknowledged the news, then hung up.

No one knew what the old man, who had weathered countless storms, truly felt, learning of his beloved daughter’s fate.

The only one whose condition improved was Hua Qiling, the first to be hospitalized. She had regained consciousness and could even sit up.

After all, her injuries were only from overuse of her ability and mental exhaustion.

Although normally considered serious, compared to the others, she was relatively fine.

Hua Qiling remained silent, having learned of everything that had happened while she was unconscious.

…Including the news of Luo Yan’s defeat.

The “Witch of Envy’s” aura had been detected in Lannister, which meant that the battle in the void… had been lost.

She… was dead.

“Miss Luo Yan… is dead…?”

Hua Qiling looked out the window at the bright sunlight, murmuring in disbelief.

She could still smell Luo Yan’s scent, lingering from before she lost consciousness.

They had promised…

Why…?

Hua Qiling wanted to cry, but she couldn’t.

More than sorrow, she felt confusion and disbelief.

When she had lost consciousness, Miss Luo Yan had been by her side.

And when she awoke, she learned of her death.

“Could it be… that the ‘Witch of Envy’ detected in Lannister… is actually Miss Luo Yan…?”

This absurd thought crossed Hua Qiling’s mind, and she clung to it.

…A sliver of hope, however unlikely.

Hua Qiling closed her eyes; she was tired again.

…

Near Lannister.

The “Witch of Envy” hadn’t descended within Lannister itself, but in a forest about ten kilometers away.

Of course, for a “Cataclysm” level disaster, this distance made little difference.

But it was still good news.

The Witch of Envy was a Primordial Demon, a conceptual being beyond human comprehension.

Even the unintentional whispers of a Primordial Demon, with their overwhelming information, could shatter a person’s worldview.

This was why Devil’s minions were often so twisted.

Let alone… looking directly upon Her form.

During the war against the “Witch of Absolute Death” centuries ago, many ability users hadn’t been killed by the Witch, but had committed suicide.

Witnessing her form, the embodiment of despair and death, those with weaker wills had simply ended their own lives.

Because compared to what they felt, death was a mercy.

Therefore, Lannister was grateful that the Witch of Envy hadn’t descended within the city itself; otherwise, the initial casualties would have been catastrophic.

However, they couldn’t ignore the nearby threat; dispatching an investigation team was imperative.

A team composed entirely of “Peril” level ability users, even led by an elderly “Destruction” level ability user, was dispatched.

If Dawn’s assault on Yan City, with its ten elite teams, was considered a formidable force, then Lannister’s investigation team was simply extravagant.

Lannister might not have enough “Peril” level ability users of its own, but they had money.

Compared to Yan City, Lannister had an abundance of resources.

With enough money, even the most dangerous missions would attract volunteers.

Two-thirds of this thirty-two-member team were “Peril” level ability users hired for the job.

The “Destruction” level ability user, however, was one of Lannister’s own, although persuading her to participate had required not only money, but also other… incentives.

An ordinary-looking, elderly woman, her hands clasped behind her back, walked among the team, the others treating her with the utmost respect.

She was the “Destruction” level ability user leading the team.

—Grandma Zoya.

A mind-related ability user, the most suitable type to confront the Witch of Envy.

And beside this hunched figure, a slightly smaller woman stood guard.

Judging from her appearance and demeanor, she was a refined, mature woman, but her figure, except for a certain prominent feature, was more like a young girl’s.

…If anyone from Yan City were here, they would recognize her instantly.

Hua Qiling’s sister, Hua Qingling.

She wasn’t Grandma Zoya’s personal guard, just assigned to protect her within the team.

When the incident in Yan City occurred, Hua Qingling had been far away.

And unlike the Holy Knights, she couldn’t commandeer the high-efficiency teleportation arrays along the way. Civilian arrays were slow and incredibly expensive.

And Dawn, when launching their attack, hadn’t been reckless. They had calculated Yan City’s reinforcement speed.

Rhine, having orchestrated the destruction of Colonna, wouldn’t make such a basic mistake and allow himself to be surrounded.

His relentless push in the latter half of the battle had been because he knew Yan City’s reinforcements were arriving.

Therefore, no matter what, Hua Qingling wouldn’t have arrived in time.

But she still had to try.

After spending a fortune and almost depleting her savings, she finally reached Lannister, only four or five hours away from Yan City, when she received the news.

The war was over.

Hua Qingling: “…”

She felt a strange mix of emotions, neither happy nor sad.

It was rare for a war to end in less than a day…

But then, news of the Witch of Envy’s descent upon Lannister arrived.

So, Hua Qingling, happening to be in Lannister, signed up for the investigation mission.

And the reward was substantial, enough to cover the costs of her frantic journey.

As one of the few women in the team, and with her relatively approachable demeanor (perhaps Grandma Zoya saw her as a granddaughter), Hua Qingling was assigned to what was considered the safest position.

…Everyone knew that if even Grandma Zoya couldn’t handle the situation, no one could.

Grandma Zoya might be old, but she was still incredibly powerful.

Of the thirty-two “Peril” level ability users in the team, she could probably take down half of them in an instant.

Mind-related ability users might not have an advantage against those of the same level, but against weaker opponents…

“Heh, the Hua girl, a wind manipulator… even I’ve heard of you,” Grandma Zoya chuckled. “And you have a title, ‘Wind God’s Favor,’ or something, right?”

“…Just some exaggerated rumors,” Hua Qingling replied respectfully.

“Peril” level ability users weren’t exactly common, but there were quite a few. For someone like Hua Qingling to be known even to figures like Old Man Sword and Grandma Zoya, she was clearly exceptional.

Because she was young.

A “Peril” level ability user in her early thirties meant her physical condition was still equivalent to a teenager’s; reaching “Destruction” level was almost guaranteed.

“Destruction” level ability users were incredibly rare.

To allow Hua Qingling room to grow, Yan City had Sun Biwu forcibly ascend to “Peril” level to protect the city, freeing Hua Qingling to train elsewhere.

If she were bound to Yan City, reaching “Destruction” level would be a pipe dream.

“Are you married?”

Grandma Zoya’s wrinkled eyes opened slightly, looking at Hua Qingling with interest.

This was a future “Destruction” level ability user; investing in her now… wouldn’t hurt.

But Hua Qingling wasn’t new to this. Many had tried to recruit her over the years, even “Destruction” level ability users.

Grandma Zoya wasn’t the first, and she wouldn’t be the last.

However… Hua Qingling’s heart belonged to Yan City. She was a Yan City native, even if it was less developed than any other place she had been to.

Mister Zero, Her Story: Chapter 83 – Return

The moment the Witch of Envy dissipated, Luo Yan’s vision was enveloped in a crimson mist.

A warm, hazy mist that brought a strange sense of comfort.

Luo Yan’s consciousness drifted towards sleep.

Due to “Dream Eater,” she was already in a half-dream state.

To fight the Witch of Envy, Luo Yan had made thorough preparations.

Not only did she have the “Eye of Fear, Envy, and Defilement” to resist Envy’s influence, and “Death” to reverse life and death, but with One’s help, she had also briefly activated “Dream Eater,” the newly acquired Demonic Offering.

Poised between dreams and reality, she could slip into a dream at any moment, then instantly return.

And the void’s turbulent currents also affected conceptual beings, while Luo Yan, for some unknown reason, was almost immune to its negative effects, giving her a significant advantage.

Finally, One had sacrificed her body, a powerful “Destruction” level body, frozen for years, stronger than any Slumberer.

If there was a second chance for humanity to defeat a Primordial Demon, besides the “Witch of Absolute Death” war… it was now.

But unexpectedly, the Witch of Envy hadn’t attacked.

She had simply told Luo Yan… another side of the truth, the Primordial Demons’ perspective.

She had called the current human civilization a flawed continuation, acknowledging the “Calamity Tide” they had unleashed, but not explaining their reasons.

Perhaps… she simply didn’t care…

And in the end, she had perished.

Witnessing the crimson figure dissipate in the void, Luo Yan knew that “Hope,” the Witch of Envy, was truly gone.

And it had been her own choice.

But… why?

Luo Yan struggled to open her eyes, her consciousness calling out to her body, but her small, silver-haired form curled up involuntarily.

Like a newborn infant, she drifted through the chaotic void.

What had the Witch of Envy done to her?

Luo Yan tried to panic, but the comforting warmth enveloping her was like a lullaby, soothing her, her consciousness growing heavy.

And it brought a strange sense of peace.

An inexplicable transformation was taking place within this small, silver figure. She fell out of the dream, yet remained in a state of… something…

She was the god spoken of by the “Malice of All Worlds,” fallen into the real world due to a conspiracy, then turned human through an act of redemption.

But she wasn’t truly human.

The Witch of Envy’s lingering power was awakening her nascent divinity, trying to break free from the constraints of a mortal form, to return to her conceptual, god-like state.

This was the true battle between Luo Yan and the Witch of Envy… what was the point of simply destroying a physical body?

Her consciousness and soul were already intertwined with a mortal’s, the result of “Luo Yan” and Absolute Death’s sacrifice.

Only by awakening her divinity, by becoming Her, could she escape these constraints, ending this flawed continuation of civilization, completing the cycle.

But…

Could the Witch of Envy truly succeed?

No, she had already sensed her own defeat.

She simply hadn’t, and wouldn’t, admit it.

After an unknown amount of time, amidst the comforting lullaby, Luo Yan finally opened her eyes.

A divine light flickered in her eyes, then quickly faded, returning to a faint crimson.

“How…?”

A faint smile appeared on Luo Yan’s lips, like when she had first learned to smile in Little Tini’s room, a small, imperfect, yet breathtakingly beautiful smile.

This was a human emotion.

“I… Luo Yan… am not a god.”

Her encounter with Hua Qiling in Ghost Town, fighting alongside Qin Wen on Flower Street, and Anna’s slightly disappointing “Day with Luo Yan”…

Whether in Ghost Town or Yan City, the joy of being with Little Tini, the sorrow of witnessing Mrs. Natalie’s departure, the quiet moments after Yan City’s battles, the heroism of the spirit soldiers…

These vibrant memories remained in Luo Yan’s mind.

Through these experiences, she had learned human emotions.

How could she let them… disappear?

After a brief yet eternal struggle, Luo Yan awakened.

The red mist surrounding her seemed to sigh, then slowly dissipated, signifying the Witch of Envy’s defeat.

The human Luo Yan had triumphed over the Witch of Envy, and over her own divinity.

As her mind cleared, Luo Yan shuddered.

She had almost fallen for the Witch’s trap…

She could sense that if her hidden divinity awakened, the danger would be far greater than the descent of the “Malice of All Worlds.”

Or rather, if her divinity awakened, the “Malice of All Worlds” could return.

Then, the “Calamity Tide” that had separated the Old and New Eras would return, and this time… there might not be another new era…

However, Luo Yan didn’t understand why the “Malice of All Worlds” wanted to destroy human civilization.

And from what the Witch of Envy had said, it seemed they had done this many times before.

“Civilizations may fall, eras may end…”

These words, so easily spoken, represented the annihilation of countless lives.

If it was simply malice towards civilization… then why was the Witch of Envy’s true name “Hope”… ?

A conceptual being’s true name was incredibly important, and they couldn’t lie, although knowing their true name didn’t grant control over them…

It was like an apple, called “apple,” but its true name might be a detailed description of its appearance, taste, chemical composition, etc., all condensed into a few strange-sounding syllables.

Those who understood the true name would instantly comprehend its meaning; those who didn’t would only hear gibberish.

Luo Yan, however, understood the meaning of true names.

Therefore, she found the Witch of Envy’s actions even more puzzling.

As for her being a god…

She had been living a normal life, with a few mysteries surrounding her past, but nothing too alarming, until suddenly, someone told her she was a god, destined to destroy the world upon awakening, so she had to stay asleep…

Honestly, Luo Yan still couldn’t comprehend it, even after almost having her divinity awakened.

Ultimately, she was just a mortal, and mortals couldn’t understand the concept of a god.

Of course, Luo Yan could potentially understand, but if she did… the world would be doomed.

Luo Yan pondered for a long time, but found no answers.

She had thought she had seen the truth, but… it was only one side of it.

What was the true purpose of the “Malice of All Worlds”?

Were they a calamity, or… guardians?

And if, as the Witch of Envy had said, her awakening in Ghost Town was due to the Witch of Absolute Death…

What was the Witch of Absolute Death planning?

And according to One, the Witch of Absolute Death had abandoned the “Malice of All Worlds,” but in the “Witch of Absolute Death” war centuries ago, who had humanity been fighting against?

A new Witch of Absolute Death, or… Absolute Death, having returned to her former status?

One couldn’t answer these questions, and the Witch of Envy hadn’t mentioned them either. Luo Yan could only seek the answers herself.

“The Sword Saint Sect Master said that the ‘Witch of Absolute Death’ was sealed in ‘Noah’ after that war… It seems I’ll have to find a way to go to Noah to uncover the other side of the truth.”

Luo Yan exhaled, her thoughts slightly clearer.

Looking at the chaotic void, the alluring crimson figure still lingered in her mind, its sorrow like a brand on her soul, stirring something within her.

“It’s time to go back.”

Luo Yan thought, her form solidifying as she withdrew from the dream.

A spatial rift slowly opened, the warmth of the real world seemingly dispelling the void’s coldness and chaos.

But this was just an illusion, born from Luo Yan sensing the real world within the chaotic void.

She looked at the rift and slowly stood up.

A faint, clear tinkling sound echoed through the void, as if transcending time and space.

A crimson figure floated towards the spatial rift and vanished.

…

Yan City, the sun high in the sky.

Six hours had passed since the end of the war, since the silence within the Ember Furnace.

Almost all the residents near the core district had been evacuated, and Districts Three, Six, and Eight, surrounding the core, were also deserted, only empty buildings remaining.

All the Free Federation ability users in Yan City, including Elise, were gathered near the blockade, watching the Ember Furnace, waiting for the outcome.

They had expected a world-shattering battle against a Primordial Demon, a battle that would shake even the void.

Such a battle lasting for days and nights wouldn’t be surprising. If it ended in just a few hours, it would be… anticlimactic.

Of course, humanity’s understanding of the void was practically nonexistent. They only had vague theories about its disordered nature.

However, before the outcome of this battle was decided, Yan City had much to do, matters left to City Lord Lin Cheng and the other government officials.

Dealing with the Free Federation headquarters, requesting aid, preparing their tearful pleas to “Noah”…

After the war and the disaster, Yan City’s losses were severe.

If the Free Federation didn’t offer substantial compensation, Yan City would face a long, difficult winter.

And the Free Federation was willing to help, but if they were to fully compensate Yan City… the other mega-cities might object. It was a matter of allocating resources.

And the specific allocation… was the main issue Lin Cheng was currently dealing with.

Of course, the other mega-cities understood they couldn’t offer too little.

Otherwise, if they faced a similar disaster, and the Free Federation used this incident as a precedent… it would backfire.

Ultimately, it was all driven by self-interest.

All alliances, in their early stages, were efficient, but as they grew, they became bloated and cumbersome, just like the current situation.

However, these matters were secondary. If this battle, beyond human comprehension, ended in defeat, everything else would be meaningless.

A Primordial Demon descending upon the real world was a true “Cataclysm” level disaster, capable of threatening all of humanity.

As they waited anxiously, the leader of one of the ability user teams received a message from his mega-city’s headquarters. His eyes widened in shock as he read it.

“This… how is this possible?!”

His exclamation drew everyone’s attention, even the Holy Knight-Captain, who had been meditating, looked up curiously.

“What’s wrong?” the Knight-Captain asked gravely. He recognized the ordinary-looking, middle-aged man as being from “Lannister.” “If something has happened back home, you can return early. If the Holy Church is needed, we will assist.”

Lannister, located at the border between the eastern and western continents, was a crucial trading hub, second only to Noah in importance.

Politically, Lannister and Noah were rivals.

With Yan City in trouble, and Noah having sent the Holy Knights as reinforcements, Lannister had also dispatched a capable team, not wanting to be outdone.

Of course, setting aside politics, it was also an act of aid.

But Noah’s Holy Church wasn’t influenced by politics, only by the desire to protect humanity.

If Lannister faced a city-destroying crisis or an unmanageable disaster, the Holy Church would also respond.

The Lannister team leader’s expression was strange. He hesitated, then said,

“The ‘Witch of Envy’s’ aura has been detected within Lannister…”

“…And it’s… a full descent.”

“What?!”

Everyone was shocked.