Return Of The Strongest Player

"Gyuu had a daughter…"

Randy and Arthur's eyes widened slightly. Neither of them could have assumed such a plot twist. The two immediately predicted–using the context clues–that Heather was Gyuu's daughter…

Blaire nodded, as if empathizing.

"The reason behind Erk's drastic change in demeanor was because he had discovered Gyuu's daughter. Gyuu's wife had already passed away, and only his daughter–Heather–remained in her dead arms."

"The discovery was on the latter floors of the tower, which meant Gyuu's wife was a player… a high-ranking one, too. The insignia inside her breast pocket revealed her affiliation to the mid-rank clan that Gyuu helped."

"People began to realize the reason why Erk's demeanor changed… He was overprotective, like a step-father to Gyuu's daughter. However, in due time, Heather's matter was buried in the shelves of history."

"It began rotting, and many forgot about it."

"However, recently, Heather somehow received access to the administrator system, just like each of the Guardians possesses. Dracolius testified to having interrogated Erk, who denied all claims."

"Heather supposedly fought you guys while trying to hijack the entirety of the desolate world in which the second tier of the second trial was held. If she had succeeded, she would've been the absolute power, practically a Goddess, within that world."

"Only High Guardians or the top executives of the Tower Administration would have been able to stop her."

"That was why Nux had to step in."

"And, for granting her access to the administrator system, Erk was arrested by Nux shortly afterwards."

"I believe that answers all of your questions."

After completing the explanation, Blaire drew a sharp breath. She exhaled before shooting a glare towards Arthur, who could only smile helplessly. Manipulation was necessary, but was not always beneficial.

Arthur's image in Blaire's mind would always represent "blackmail" and "threats." The latter would eventually discover that the former was simply trying to trick her, and all contact would be cut.

All hopes of securing a contract to produce equipment had already shattered.

"Well, if you don't mind, I have to get back to forging a masterpiece," said Blaire, standing up as she indirectly told the two to get out. Arthur and Randy nodded, while the latter returned Blaire's cloak.

Blaire caressed the cloak before stuffing it into a bag. She then eyed Arthur and Randy as they silently left the smithy.

"I don't understand what's so special with that guy, Nux," said Blaire, stroking her chin as she scrunched her eyebrows. 

Suddenly, a figure shrouded in darkness arose from the ground. He seemed like a gentle, old man until one viewed into his eyes, which were the representation of the abyss. A faint smile hung on his lips.

He approached Blaire, hugging her gently from behind. "You'll discover it eventually."

Blaire smiled in his embrace, leaning her back back into his chest. "Nux, you really should tell me where you live. You always come to visit me, but I can never visit you. It's becoming a pain now. I miss you from time to time."

"Even if I did, Blaire, you wouldn't be able to visit," replied Nux, grimacing. "No one can visit the High Guardians."

Blaire sighed. "So, did you find out what you were looking for?"

Nux slowly shook his head. "That man… he's peculiar. Others he has interacted with should have also discovered something amiss."

"He's naive," said Blaire, narrowing her eyes. "But, he also thinks of consequences. I could practically sense his regret as he 'thought' he was manipulating me. He thought he could sign a contract with me… such a weird player."

"Everyone is naive to us oldies," said Nux, letting out a little chuckle. 

"I don't look old."

"But you're thousands of years old, Blaire."

"Hmph!" Blaire pouted.

Suddenly, Nux flicked his wrist, and a bed manifested in front of Blaire. The bed was covered in roses and white bed sheets. Blaire's cheeks reddened, and she quickly turned to face Nux in embarrassment.

She buried her head in his chest. "We can't do this right now."

"I only come once in a while," said Nux, gently pushing Blaire onto the bed. He gazed at her luscious lips.

Even a High Guardian needed to relieve his sexual desires.

*

As Arthur and Randy left Blaire's lair, they split up. The latter headed towards the training ground, while the former headed to the inn. Several thoughts floated in his mind, causing his expression to turn grim.

The variables were troublesome.

He wanted nothing to do with the affair, but if he could possibly exploit it, it would be for the best. However, he also wished for Heather to perish, as she could potentially become an obstacle in the future.

Oscar was not a thorn in Arthur's side, as he could easily be disposed. However, Heather was the son of a Fallen Guardian, and had connections with a High Guardian. Moreover, she had a grudge with the crimson-eyed man.

If Nux got involved, it would all turn to shit.

Arthur approached the inn. Jenny was exiting the building with her gear and sword. A bag was strapped to her back, which seemed quite stuffed. Arthur's eyes slightly widened as he approached her.

"Heading for the first floor?" Arthur inquired, raising an eyebrow. 

"I got all my preparations done early, so… yeah," replied Jenny, smiling faintly. Ever since the matter with Hermes, her demeanor had shifted. She seemed revitalized, as if a load was lifted off her shoulders.

Her expression seemed bright, and a metaphorical light emanated off her body. She seemed almost childish.

"Good luck," said Arthur, patting her on the back. Jenny nodded, heading towards the center of the Outer District. The crimson-eyed man wanted nothing but to pounce on the first floor, but he couldn't.

Preparations were not yet complete.

For now, the most important matter was about Ferhill.

Arthur calmly returned to his room, only to find it empty. He plopped down on the bed, letting out a sigh. 

It would be a problem if Nux got involved…

But so what?

A smile gradually blossomed on Arthur's face before his face contorted into that of a devil.

He simply needed to become strong enough to fight an ancient existence.