The breath of the Evil God!
Uerta took a step back, his expression becoming grave.
"It’s Bajatos’ minions."
Ave said calmly, "Mr. Uerta, we share a common purpose. It seems we’ve long been targeted by the Evil God."
The Evil God Bajatos had infiltrated the Emperor’s Sword, intending to overthrow the meeting that would decide the future direction of the world.
Uerta’s expression was uncertain as he approached the bloodstain on the ground, bending down and placing his three-fingered hand on the viscous liquid.
After a piercing chill, his gaze seemed to traverse countless planes, entering a scarlet plane.
In just an instant, the twisted creation nearly overwhelmed his sanity.
Uerta fell to the ground, his chest heaving violently.
After a long time, he finally said, "You’re right, I almost fell into the Evil God’s trap, becoming a traitor to the tribe! I will go with you to the Western Continent to inform the Deep Sea Council of this news."
Only Ave covered her face with the golden hair on her head.
These three people... have already turned into an incredible scam group!
.......................
At the same time, the Deep Sea Council.
This is a massive underground facility, and all the guests participating in this event are dressed almost identically, in black suits or white gowns.
Lily, wearing high heels, followed Yue somewhat nervously. Compared to an ornate gown, she was more accustomed to the maid uniform of an estate. In such an occasion, she could only silently hold Yue’s hand, not daring to meet anyone’s gaze, as someone with her humble status shouldn’t appear in this high-society social venue.
Yue resumed his usual graceful pace, walking confidently among the crowd.
It was the third day since the ban was lifted, and the treatment plan provided by the Deep Sea Council was quite effective.
"Yue, it seems you’ve recovered well."
The man who approached was one of the council members, and also one of those who had previously quarreled with Yue in the council. His face was full of smiles as he held a glass of red wine, "I toast to you."
The councilor took a sip from his wine glass, seemingly asking casually, "I heard they said you can no longer go to sea. What are your plans next?"
People around cast curious and expectant glances.
The atmosphere between the two seemed friendly, but this topic hit Yue’s sore spot directly; everyone knew Yue had been passionate about seafaring since childhood, and for him, this was nothing short of a devastating blow.
The ban had just been lifted, and he was still under observation. If Yue were to commit a breach of etiquette in an important social setting, he would face more severe restrictions.
However, Yue’s face revealed a charming smile, "I’m currently studying Steam Technology theory."
Some young women nearby blushed at this sight.
Yue has always been the most popular type in social circles.
Handsome, well-mannered, and a future candidate for chairman, he is the type of dream lover that leaves no corner untouched.
The aristocratic ladies were delighted that Yue could recover from Maritime Syndrome — that was the final diagnosis — they could imagine Yue was at a low point in his life, eager to have a chance encounter with him, to soothe his wounded spirit and draw him into a tender solace.
As for Lily who always followed Yue... what is there to worry about with a maid?
They didn’t care about these things; at this status, who doesn’t have a lover or two?
"Oh? It seems you’ve found a new goal."
The councilor scrutinized Yue for a while, yet ultimately failed to notice any flaws.
It seems he’s taken quite a few medications.
This is the special medicine developed for Maritime Syndrome, which can effectively suppress hallucinations, but the side effects are apparent. Long-term use of this drug may cause memory loss, slow thinking, and in severe cases, even lead to idiocy.
But that’s a rare occurrence. Unfortunately, Yue didn’t experience it.
The councilor could only express regret in his heart.
His conflict with Yue wasn’t just about their previous argument; if Yue were to turn into an idiot, there would be one fewer formidable opponent in the future chairman selection.
"If I can’t personally venture to sea, then I’ll build the best ships in the world."
This remark, along with his resolute gaze, further endeared him to the aristocratic ladies. The councilor wanted to say more but was soon squeezed away.
The noble ladies unanimously showed interest in shipbuilding technology, holding their wine glasses and discussing steam power technology with Yue.
In social circles, Yue always becomes the focus, especially for women.
This makes many men feel quite dissatisfied.
However, today, Yue is destined not to be the central figure of this gathering. When the master of ceremonies ascended the podium, everyone fell silent.
A short and corpulent man attracted everyone’s gaze.
He wore a black top hat and a small mustache. Perhaps because of his physique, his walking posture seemed somewhat ludicrous.
But no one dared to show a mocking or derisive attitude towards this short man.
Because this is the Deep Sea Council and the most prestigious guest across the entire Western Continent.
The actual ruler of the Lofic Consortium, the ’Magnate’ Mr. Flor.
With the emcee’s introduction, a burst of applause erupted in the banquet hall. Mr. Flor generously stepped forward and began his opening remarks with his shrill voice that was not pleasant to hear.
As usual, the speech was to commence with an amusing anecdote from Mr. Flor’s early years.
Everyone delivered speeches this way, as it helped to liven up the atmosphere and relax people’s nerves.
Yue watched Mr. Flor at the center of the podium. As the council chairman’s son, he had studied public speaking courses during his student years.
But what was different was that Mr. Flor grew something else on him.
It was a clawing black shadow; with his appearance, the shadow spread, enveloping the entire banquet hall, gradually condensing into a hand.
Mr. Flor brought exciting good news.
"Not long ago, we made a breakthrough discovery in our research on the Old Gods, which confirms our long-held belief — they are neither unknowable, unfathomable nor impossible to behold. With the right means, we can touch their essence."
The atmosphere in the venue became lively.
Yue watched as the giant hand morphed, gripping everyone in its palm.
Mr. Flor skillfully paused his speech for a moment, then, with an elevated and inspiring tone, delivered the news to everyone present, "I hope to share my joy with all of you just recently, we’ve captured an Old God!"