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Chapter 517: Speculations on the "Hangings"

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Amazed, another question arose in the mind of the "Turned Over" Alje: If the "Wanderer" had already foreseen all this, why did He specifically point out the connection between the Port of Banxi and the "Rose of Redemption" and the "King of Angels," Medici? Was He deliberately revealing this to us? Did He hope that through us, this matter would be proclaimed? Was His aim directly at the "King of Angels," Medici? No—more likely, at the "True Creator"! The "Wanderer" had previously repeatedly thwarted the "True Creator's" plans, and this too was surely part of that pattern. The term "Rose of Redemption" originated within the "True Creator's" abandoned temple, established by the "King of Angels," Medici, and Ulusios—clearly deeply linked to the "True Creator." The Port of Banxi is the only place where our Storm Church holds influence. So, who exactly was the "Wanderer" truly communicating with? Alje, the "Turned Over," began to grasp something. Immediately, he became acutely aware of another point: "World" had previously mentioned a major event in Beckland, which was promptly confirmed by the "Wise Man," leading to the revelation of the awakening of the "Primordial Witch" and the arrival of the "True Creator." This time, the unusual developments in Banzhong were likewise responded to by the "Wise Man," uncovering the ancient secrets of the region and bringing the "Red Rose of Redemption" and the "King of Angels," Medici, into view before the members of the Tarot. Could this be too coincidental? Indeed, "World" had previously spoken only of events related to Beckland—this was the first time maritime matters were involved. Moreover, the "Wise Man" had mentioned last week that his followers had been forced to leave Beckland due to the severe smog crisis. These details align perfectly. Therefore, is "World" actually one of the "Wise Man's" followers? No, it should be the representatives of all His followers within the Tarot Circle who carry out certain tasks that He himself finds inconvenient—of course, the followers also use this gathering to trade goods and knowledge, thereby advancing their own development, which counts as a form of cultivation by the Sir Fool. Upon reflection, this hypothesis is very likely correct, at the very least, the World has never collected Rosel’s diary in exchange for knowledge or intelligence from the Sir Fool… As a follower, this is precisely his duty, and he has already submitted it privately. From this conclusion, the World’s certain deliberate issues and inconsistencies emerge as a deliberate effort to conceal the identities of his followers—this aligns perfectly with his experienced, seasoned, and astute nature. Mr. Fool organizes Tarot gatherings, not only concealing his quiet resurgence and step-by-step efforts to unlock the seals, but also harboring the intention of leveraging our involvement in certain events—this is evident from the composition of the members. Upper-class nobility, bishop-level extraordinary figures, survivors from the lands forsaken by the gods, students of the Abraham family, and adult vampires—each represents a distinct power or circle, a unique channel. Several ideas flash through Aljé's mind. Far from being constrained by his own speculations, he feels increasingly excited. To him, the very unknown purpose of Mr. Fool is the most terrifying. Only once he begins to grasp what Mr. Fool intends can he effectively mitigate risks and strengthen his own position. As long as the Fool wishes to use us, he will surely offer certain benefits—exactly what I hope for... Otherwise, I have no idea when I shall finally see the hope of a half-divine, half-human figure... Ah, "World," you would never believe how well I've seen through your disguise. Aljer's sense of fear eases, and he begins to ponder how best to leverage the intelligence gathered from Banxi Port. He cannot simply report the information directly, for that would raise suspicion; instead, he must patiently wait for an opportune moment—when both the upper echelons will appreciate his efforts, reward him, and yet remain unobserved. Audrey of "Justice" notices that the Master of the Pendulum has undergone a significant internal transformation, yet finds it surprising that he can generate so many thoughts and speculations so swiftly. From the Fool's words, she is delighted to learn that "The Redeeming Rose" is a secret organization founded by certain members of the "King of Angels," and that it maintains a certain connection with the "True Creator." At the same time, she also sensed a certain oddity in the "world," noticing that this member, the most emotionally elusive of all, was always involved in major matters, consistently gathering crucial intelligence, and constantly initiating efforts to secure recipes, materials, and properties—seemingly able to hunt down a remarkable individual every one or two weeks! Had he left Beckland and gone to sea? Or had he simply heard about these developments in Beckland? Should she inform the Church of this intelligence? Hmm, "The Hangman" has close ties with the Storm Church—having him handle it would be more effective and likely avoid any complications. Suppressing her curiosity, Audrey asked with genuine interest: "Respected Sir 'The Fool,' what is the title of 'The King of Angels' Medici, or which path does He belong to?" Audrey was excited and delighted as she thought of justice. The Red Priest... "Sun" Deric murmured the term, only to find no corresponding record in the history of Silver City. Perhaps I have read too few sources, having received only a general education... he thought with a slight regret. "Magician" Fols and "Moon" Emlin listened as though hearing a story, equally intrigued by such information. The only problem was, they couldn't boast of it, couldn't mention it in their novels! Fols felt a sense of disappointment. Mr. The Hanged Man should be reporting upward—hope he doesn’t delay too long… With his sharp instincts, perhaps he’s already begun to notice certain issues with The World, and has grasped the connection between himself and The Fool. Fortunately, I’ve deliberately aligned The World’s character with Sherlock Moriarty from the very beginning, endowing him with the status of a beloved companion. Mr. The Hanged Man might just perceive this layer, but it’s unlikely he’d imagine that The World is, in fact, a constructed figure. The Fool, Klein, gently touched his chin and smiled. “Go on,” he said. Seeing Mr. The Fool no longer pursuing the topic from earlier, Emlyn—the Moon—now freed from the emotional currents of the Savior—began to face the pressing realities. The issue was money! No matter what, he had never considered selling the dolls. He simply told himself he would save diligently, perhaps for six months, or even a year, before rewarding himself with a new one, or investing in fresh clothing for the ones he already had. In addition, the only way he could think of to earn money was by selling certain potions with miraculous effects—but this could easily pose a threat to the hidden communities within Beckland. It was part of the Primordial Arrangement; logically, it should be the duty of the Lord of Nibais to provide the necessary support. Yet, the "Fool" insists on my confidentiality, asking me to remain a steadfast, silent hero working in the shadows—without actively revealing what I'm doing. After a few seconds of thought, Emlin cleared his throat and said, "Ladies and gentlemen, I have a question. Here's the scenario: suppose a powerful figure assigns you to investigate something, and although you successfully gather information, you're unable to report back to them due to certain constraints—what then, do you do to continue receiving their support?" Upon finishing, Emlin suddenly felt a sense of shame at his own actions. This... this is quite like betrayal and treachery. No, I'm doing this for the very survival of our entire bloodline. I must sacrifice my reputation, bear the burden of unspoken doubts—only when the time comes and the truth is revealed will they be moved by my actions. "Moon" Emlyn quickly regained his composure. At that moment, "Justice" Odile, "Magician" Folshe, and "Sun" Deryck all turned their attention to Aljer, for in their minds, the man known as "The Pendant" had extensive experience in such matters and was the ideal teacher. "The Fool" Kline shared the same belief. "The Pendant" Aljer glanced at "Moon" Emlyn and chuckled: "It's simple, but you must bear a certain risk." Emlyn instinctively denied: "It's not me!" "The Pendant" smiled lightly: "Suppose it is." "He went on to describe: 'You gradually exhibit certain anomalies in your daily life, allowing the strong one to notice that something is amiss. He will have two options: first, to directly interrogate you—though this easily breaks the trail—and second, to offer you incidental assistance, enabling you to conduct deeper investigations, while simultaneously sending someone to monitor you. 'I believe the second option is more likely. Your risk lies in how you maintain the confidentiality of the information you wish to conceal, without being detected under constant observation.' Could that really be it? In fact, you won't be exposed at all. Each time I attend the Tarot meetings, I rest at the Harvest Church, appearing completely normal. The rituals of offering sacrifices and receiving gifts themselves serve as visible evidence that can be observed by the Nabiès elders, allowing them to deduce my connection with the 'Knight of Cups,' yet leaving them unable to imagine that I have already joined a secret gathering. This is excellent. I will proactively inquire about the city of Silver with the Count de Wymand while studying history!" Emlyn's eyes lit up with an idea. He then recalled something and turned to the "Turned Over Man," saying, "Didn't you ask last week about how to make everyone on a ship fall asleep at the same time? It's simple—I can provide a magical anesthetic gas that spreads effectively, with no irritating odor. Even on deck, simply inhaling it will cause unconsciousness. Of course, you'd do best to choose a night with little to no wind. Also, the targets shouldn't feel any sense of danger, and their physical condition shouldn't be too robust—those extraordinary individuals known for their strength in the Sequence 9 group are at the limit. The effect lasts over three hours, after which it gradually diminishes. One hundred pounds per container, plus an additional thirty pounds as compensation." The "Turned Over Man" considered the seamen aboard the ghost ship and, without making any counteroffer, said, "Very well." He needed to establish a certain presence before the "Moon," preparing for the major transaction to come—他曾考虑过使用沉眠咒语,但那需要吟诵开启咒文,一旦念出,水手们便会察觉异样,事后产生疑虑. As the exchange drew to a close, Caine gently tapped the weathered surface of the long table and smiled calmly. "I already foresee that the guests next week will appear in new forms." "This gathering concludes here." "Thank you for your blessing," said Audrey of "Justice," rising first, offering both farewell and gratitude. With Mr. "The Fool's" words, she now felt even more confident about taking the "psychiatrist" potion. As others like "The Magician" repeated the same sentiments, one by one, their figures faded into the palace, and the eternal stillness once again settled upon the gray mist.