Chapter: Charlotte
42D El Road, West Borough, Holy City.
The time was approximately 2:30 P.M.
On the tranquil street, a single-story house stood with quiet dignity. Against this backdrop, a young man, who appeared to be around 25 years old, found himself standing. His presence seemed somewhat out of place amidst the serenity of the surroundings as he silently approached the fence gate. With practiced ease, he deftly unlocked the gate and entered.
The young man possessed a countenance that demanded attention. His most striking feature lay in his deep-set jade eyes, which shimmered with an intensity hinting at hidden depths of emotion. Short eyebrows framed his piercing gaze, lending an air of determination to his face. A fleshy nose sat proudly in the center, exuding self-assurance, while his oval-shaped visage added an underlying elegance and symmetry.
Clad in a sleek black formal suit, the young man exuded sophistication and refinement. Each tailored line accentuated his lean frame, hinting at a quiet strength beneath his composed exterior. However, it was his choice of headwear that truly set him apart. A top hat, the epitome of refined taste, sat snugly upon his head, concealing his short blue hair.
Before long, he arrived at the wooden entrance gate, raised his right hand, and knocked on it three times.
A few seconds passed, and soon a beautiful lady opened the door from inside and cast a deep gaze at the uninvited visitor. She was around 35 years old, boasting an apple-shaped figure that accentuated her generous curves, particularly her ample bosom. Her long, flowing blonde hair cascaded down her back in loose waves as if recently freed from a haphazard braid. The strands danced with a playful wildness, adding to her untamed beauty.
Her sun-kissed olive complexion glowed warmly as if touched by the sun's gentle rays. Deep-set amber eyes, reminiscent of autumn's golden hues, held a stunning depth and intensity. They seemed to carry the wisdom of age and experiences, yet a mischievous spark flickered within.
Her attire spoke of a free-spirited nature. She wore a loose-fitting white shirt adorned with delicate flowers along the border, adding a touch of whimsy to her ensemble. The shirt embraced her figure, emphasizing her curves while offering comfort and ease. A long, gypsy-style skirt gracefully swirled around her legs, its vibrant patterns and colors mirroring her vibrant personality.
"Long time no see, Lady Charlotte," the young man suddenly inclined his body forward and greeted her with a smile.
Surprised, Charlotte greeted him with a nod and furrowed brows. Though she couldn't recognize him, she felt a sense of familiarity.
"Please forgive me for not recognizing you, young man. May I ask who you are?"
A chuckle escaped from Charles's mouth. He removed his top hat, placed it over his chest, and introduced himself.
"I am Charles Nightwind, My Lady. You may not have recognized me due to the twenty-year gap, but we indeed met in Riverdale City-"
Before he could finish his words, Charlotte widened her eyes in shock and stuttered.
"C-Charles?! Is that you? Oh, Holy Mother of Life!" Charlotte almost covered her mouth in shock and hurriedly invited him in.
"P-Please come in. How long has it been? Hunt always talked about you whenever some news came from the Arc Kingdom." As she spoke, she guided him to the main hall and gestured for him to sit on the large, ornate sofa.
Meanwhile, Charles settled comfortably on the sofa and inquired,
"Are you still in contact with Bishop Reynolds and others? How are they doing?"
Charlotte fell silent for a moment and then sighed. "A lot has happened in these past twenty years, Charles. Although Bishop Reynolds is still alive, he has reached the end of his life due to a curse from the Sinful Demon. It will be a miracle if he lives for another five years."
Upon hearing those words, Charles instantly recalled Reynolds mentioning the curse during their discussion of Eddie's prophecy, and he nodded solemnly.
"I will go to Riverdale City in two years. If he is still alive, I will try to find a way to remove the curse." While unsure if his soul fire could burn a demon's curse, he intended to try it.
At that moment, Charlotte wore a hesitant expression and added, "I advise you not to visit that city anymore, Charles. After your mother's death, the Life Church took over your property and even turned your house into a secret base. I have heard rumors of illegal and taboo research taking place there."
"Oh? They must be exploring the Dream Realm using the 'Nightmare Stone.'" Charles waved his hand, unaffected by their secret activities.
Suddenly, he thought of the ACES team leader and asked, "What about Lady Emilia? Has she managed to regain her life force?"
"Her unfortunate situation turned into a blessing. After she lost her life force, her strength increased tremendously. She has already become a Rank-4 [Mind Manipulator] and is now the Elder of the Weathering Shadows organization. However, her lifespan is still short, and she might reach the end in a few decades."
"Oh? She is still alive, but I didn't expect her to face such struggles." Charles felt a tinge of sadness and continued,
"What about Bella Collins? Last I heard, she entered the Dreamforce Lair but never returned."
Charlotte looked puzzled and shook her head. "Although I have heard of her in the past, I didn't even meet her when I was in Riverdale City, Charles. So, I have no information about her."
She paused, recalling something, and added, "But a civil war erupted in the Arc Kingdom, resulting in the death of many people in Riverdale City. Even Baron Ethan Walker met his end against a Count's right-hand man and died an honorable death. Hunt's partner, Robb, also perished during the war." Although Charlotte maintained a calm expression, a trace of emotional disturbance flickered in her eyes.
Charles realized she felt saddened by Ethan's death. 'Now that I think about it, she married Ethan Walker for her mission and lived with him for a while as his second wife. But her complicated relationship status doesn't interest me much. Let's get to the main topic.'
"Why are you all here in the Sacred Empire?"
Charlotte remained silent for a while, giving him a penetrating look. "Before I answer your question, Charles, I want to know your strength. I want the truth."
Charles smiled and pointed his finger towards the cathedral visible through the window gap.
"If the Pope and I were to battle, I'm 100 percent confident I can hold my ground against him for more than 2 minutes. Beyond that, it might result in my death." Charles spoke honestly. After comprehending over 16 Rebirth Fire Laws, his understanding of the Rebirth Domain had reached a pinnacle level. Though he still lacked the power to stand against Udnir, he could employ some tricks against the Pope of Order and last more than 2 minutes.
'And when the chaos era descends, I might even be able to kill him,' he thought, though he didn't voice it aloud. The upcoming arrival of the Chaos Era remained unknown to anyone.
'Of course, many Gods might have already noticed the changes in destiny, though.'
Charlotte froze momentarily, her expression stiffening. "You have already entered the realm of Legends?" Her disbelief was evident.
Charles nodded and replied, "Although I have entered the realm of Legends, I still have a long way to go."
Charlotte was stunned by his progress and asked, "Does that mean you avenged your mother's death?"
"I have only half-avenged her death. Many perpetrators are still roaming in this world," Charles replied coldly.
Though she didn't understand whom he was referring to, Charlotte nodded silently.
"Anyway, I can rest assured that you have grown much stronger. We are here to steal an 'Intellectual Artifact' called 'S-13,'" Charlotte revealed without hesitation, surprising Charles.
'An S-Rank Intellectual Artifact? Genesis, gather more information about 'S-13,'' Charles mentally commanded.
[Yes, Host. The Intellectual Artifact called 'S-13' also goes by the name 'Stormheart's Whisper.' Its information and abilities are unknown, but rumors suggest that anyone who possesses this artifact can become a true Immortal (endless lifespan). Its first owner was an ancient Three-Eye Titan with thunder abilities capable of even destroying Demigods. Around 50,000 years ago, he ended up gravely injured and stumbled upon this high plane, where he eventually died. That's how 'Stormheart's Whisper' came to this land.]
"Stormheart's Whisper, huh? Are you doing this to save Lady Emilia?" Charles asked, surprised by the revelation.
"Yes," Charlotte replied with a determined expression. "Lady Emilia's time is limited, and she wishes to find a way to prolong her life. 'Stormheart's Whisper' is rumored to have the power to grant immortality. If we can obtain it, there might be a chance to save her. In truth, Archbishop Abel was the one who sent us here to gather more information about this artifact."
Charles leaned back on the sofa, deep in thought. Immortality was a coveted power, but he understood the artifact's dangers. It could distort one's desires and drive them to madness if not being careful.
'After all, Intellectual artifacts are not something that could be easily tamed.'
Nevertheless, he couldn't deny the importance of saving Lady Emilia, a dear comrade who had suffered so much.
After contemplating, Charles looked at Charlotte and said,
"I will help you in this endeavor. Lady Emilia deserves a chance at a longer life. However, you must proceed with caution. The acquisition of such a powerful artifact is bound to attract attention and pose numerous challenges."
Charlotte nodded, appreciating Charles's support. "Thank you, Charles. The 'S-3' is currently in the possession of the Sacred Empire's Royal Family. It is stored within the Imperial Vault, heavily guarded and protected by powerful enchantments. It won't be easy to retrieve it."
A mischievous glint appeared in Charles's eyes as he formulated a plan.
"I'll help you steal it. But-" Charles paused as he thought of something and soon added.
"After using its ability on Lady Emilia, I'll take that artifact myself." He still wouldn't forgive the Life Church for scheming against him and his mother in the past and decided to give them their own medicine.
Although Charlotte wanted to refute, she could only swallow her words and nod reluctantly.
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