''Sister Belicia, from what I understand, our master's family history is not very good, and it seems that the reason for the celebration you invited us to is based on their interests. Can you please provide us with more details?'' Dan asked suspiciously.
According to Belicia's version of events, Raydon's family had always looked down on him, and as a result, he was eventually expelled from the family mansion. It was quite strange that they were now having a celebration in his name.
As all the puzzle pieces fell into place, the haunting idea that the Demugen family had orchestrated a scheme to exploit Raydon for their own gain plagued Dan's mind.
As soon as Belicia saw the scowl on Dan's face, she realized he was upset and said while taking a few deep breaths. "Unfortunately, what you suspect is true. They want to entice Raydon to their side in order to win over his master, whose existence they had certain of. ''
Belicia began to reveal the plans orchestrated by the Demugen family, holding nothing back. She explained that their primary objective was to publicly present Raydon as a young master of their family during the celebration. They intended to make use of the reputation and connection with the high-rank master supporting Raydon, even if it was only in name, in order to boost the authority and influence of their family in the society of item holders.
''So they invited us as well, probably assuming we are associated with the same master, huh?'' Karan chimed in, his calm demeanor contrasting with the fiery anger in his eyes.
While they didn't mind being used in such a way by the family, exploiting Raydon for personal gain was a notion they could not accept.
''Sister Belicia, you must understand this. Regardless of his family history, Raydon is our master.'' Dan's words were delivered with all sincerity, and his resolve shone through. ''From the very beginning, he has selflessly helped us without expecting anything in return. We owe him our lives. And even though we may not know his true motives, he has continued to guide us and make us stronger.''
The conviction in Dan's voice increased as he turned his attention to the training ground. ''As individuals who live in the slums, we know the struggle and always have the burning desire for a better life. Our yearning for peace has finally been partially successful thanks to the power we now possess. But do you know why we continue to push ourselves to become even stronger?''
Belicia remained silent, fully understanding the depth of Dan's words. Normally, only an E-Rank item holder could have lived a reasonably comfortable life in such areas, but having this many F-Ranks made them invincible in this area unless they encountered a D-Rank enemy.
In point of fact, one of their objectives was to achieve power and mastery over their own destinies, in addition to making certain that they would never again be subject to the authority of an individual like Herman.
However, this was no longer the primary reason that drove their ambition to improve their powers.
"We strive to be worthy of him and his efforts," Dan expressed with a sigh.
Recognizing Raydon's incredible power, Dan and his companions knew that no matter how strong they became, they would never reach his level. Despite this, Raydon had shown them unwavering support and continued to teach them new techniques as they diligently worked to improve.
Because of this, they had admitted that Raydon wasn't expecting anything from them and that they were of no real value; however, he still continued to teach them new techniques when he saw how hard they were working.
"Even now, we're uncertain about how our Master sees us, but we have all pledged our allegiance to him," Dan declared firmly. "Perhaps we lack power at present, but we share a singular desire and goal: to be the shadows that accompany his immense existence, hoping that one day we may be of use to him."
Dan then turned his gaze towards Belicia, his determination shining through. "Henceforth, be it now or in the future, whoever he chooses as a friend will be our friend, and whoever he deems an enemy will be our enemy."
As Belicia met Dan's unwavering gaze, she sensed not only his resolute determination but also a subtle hint of a warning. Dan hadn't explicitly stated it, but Belicia understood the implication. The family she served clearly harbored ill intentions towards Raydon, and they could not be considered friends.
Hence, Belicia found herself at a crossroads, needing to choose a side.
On one side, there was the Demugen family, whom she had served since childhood and who had granted her the powers she currently possessed. On the other side, there was her blood-related brother and the people she considered her true family.
"Tell me your plan. I will help you," Belicia declared, her gaze unwavering as she stared at her brother and the others.
She had decided, even if it meant betraying the family she served.
In truth, Belicia didn't need much time to ponder. Her unwavering devotion to the Demugen family had always been driven by her desire to protect her brother and the lives of her family in the slums. She had been grateful to the Demugen family for the opportunities they had given her until now. However, in just a few days, Raydon had accomplished what she had failed to do. Thus, Raydon's worth far exceeded that of the entire Demugen family.
"That's good," Dan and the others breathed a sigh of relief upon hearing her choice.
They were prepared to make enemies of the powerful Demugen family, but having Belicia on their side eased their concerns, as no one wanted to see her as an adversary.
"Since their motives for inviting us are clear, it would be more logical to decline the invitation," Karan suggested.
After pondering Karan's words, Dan turned to Belicia. "What is Master's decision?" he inquired, wanting to know Raydon's stance before making his own choice.
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