Hearing her father's poignant portrayal of her mother, Andrea was deeply moved. She stood there, silent and pensive, letting his words sink in for what felt like an eternity. Eventually, she cast a glance at her father, her voice laden with emotion and urgency: "Why didn't she come back, Dad?"Mr. Aylmer struggled to find words, taking a few sips of his tea for courage before he could muster a response: "Perhaps, she encountered some troubles she didn’t want us to be embroiled in." he suggested somberly.Hearing this, Andrea's grip tightened, determination flaring in her eyes: "Dad, I will make sure she comes home safely." she declared, her presence suddenly becoming more formidable, as if some latent power within her was about to burst forth. Yet, she wasn't fully aware of this transformation herself. After a few more exchanges with her father, Andrea retired to her room.Meanwhile, in a hotel bedroom, Benjamin was seated in a meditative posture on the bed, eyes tightly shut. A myste
For a moment, Benjamin was lost for words, his gaze transfixed on the hotel's main entrance.Standing there was a familiar figure, Isabella, adorned in an off-shoulder white dress that showcased her exquisite beauty. In comparison, even with Andrea standing next to him, it was clear that Isabella's beauty, combined with her inherent elegance, was unparalleled, especially in such attire.In the realm of intertwined destinies and shimmering intrigue, Andrea, the fierce-hearted policewoman, donned her uniform with a spirit that few outfits could truly complement. Should she stand beside Benjamin in her police regalia, a distinctive aura would certainly surround them. Yet, in that very moment, the depths of Benjamin's thoughts were far removed from such trifles.His gaze, laden with a plethora of complex emotions, was firmly anchored on Isabella. And in her close proximity was another man, an unexpected presence: "Isabella, have you been waiting long for me? My sincerest apologies, I was
"Benjamin, let's move to a conference room." Caroline swiftly beckoned, her urgency palpable: "This situation is graver than you can imagine." Her demeanor alone hinted to Benjamin the gravity of what was about to unfold.In but a fleeting moment, within the confines of the exclusive meeting room of the Royalty Hotel, there began an influx of myriad individuals whose faces were well-recognized in the capital.Furthermore, the majority of them were undoubtedly martial artists, skilled in the ancient art of combat.Amongst the congregation, Benjamin's discerning eyes caught sight of a man whose demeanor held a shadow of familiarity, an elusive echo from the past, perhaps.However, much to his chagrin, Benjamin could not place the man's identity. Yet, there were instances when the stranger's gaze would stealthily drift toward him, suggesting some sort of underlying sentiment or opinion he held about Benjamin."Permit me a momentary introduction." a voice broke the silence: "I am Finn Arn
"Alright, please, let's maintain our composure. While the theft of the artifact is indeed an oversight on our hotel's part, everyone here knows the true reason why we auctioned off that particular treasure. Our main aim for today's auction was to unveil the hidden secret within the treasure. However, due to the greed of a few, we'll have to postpone this quest. For this, we deeply regret."Feeling the room's tension, Finn finally couldn't resist stepping in to address the crowd. At his words, everyone fell into a contemplative silence.For some reason, Benjamin felt that Finn's glances, unintentional or otherwise, kept straying his way. Though discreet, Benjamin, being a former operative, trusted his keen observations implicitly. He wasn't mistaken about this."I understand most of you are here for the stolen artifact. However, the auction was announced earlier, and we can't halt it just for that one item. If you have no objections, I can have my staff prepare the rooms and invite you
"Benjamin, you recognize the man in this image, don't you?"Upon witnessing Benjamin's expression, Lord Arnold shifted his gaze, his face bearing a hint of amusement.Although Benjamin didn't verbally acknowledge, his reaction spoke volumes to everyone present.However, Benjamin found it hard to swallow.Momentarily, he hesitated, then turned to Finn."Although I recognize the man in the photograph,Why would he be there? Moreover, I've never heard mention of him practicing any arts?"Hearing Benjamin's skepticism, Lord Arnold simply shook his head."No, you surely must know why he was there.Your presence here, isn't it also more than mere coincidence?"Upon this retort from Lord Arnold, Benjamin stood slightly taken aback.At this moment, all eyes converged on him.Even Ancel and Caroline couldn't resist and fixed their gaze upon him."This matter…"Benjamin seemed at a loss for words, struggling to find an explanation.Moreover, the circumstances were indeed uncanny, and no matter
But soon enough, Griselda, unable to suppress her laughter, chuckled heartily: "Ah, how could I forget? Such a disgraceful defeat and you expect people to never speak of it?”The moment these words left Griselda’s lips, the fury festering within Patrick Jones could no longer be contained. His roar resonated throughout: "You dare?”In a heartbeat, like a tempestuous whirlwind, he lunged at Griselda, hand outstretched, transforming into a tiger's claw, swiping fiercely at Griselda's delicate face. This attack, though not lethal, could scar Griselda’s visage beyond repair. A fate, for a young maiden like her, possibly worse than death.Witnessing this terrifying scene, the color drained from Griselda's face, her eyes widened in sheer terror. Unsure if it was his speed or the menacing threat of Patrick Jones, Griselda was paralyzed, only able to stare as the impending doom closed in.“Hmph!”But by Griselda's side stood Benjamin, unwavering. How could he stand by and watch the grandchild
At that moment, it was as if Keelin had peered into the very souls of those present.With a chilling look, she surveyed each person.Then, her voice dripped with a threatening undertone."I know, gentlemen, the thoughts that dwell in your minds.Yet, as long as life courses through Keelin's veins, should I ascend to the helm of the Jones dynasty, I shall never forget the debts I owe you all.However, any soul bold enough to depart at this very moment, be warned: every captured frame and clip bearing evidence of our shared past will find its way onto the web.By that time, the James lineage need not act.I fear that Big Brother Patrick and the entirety of the Jones clan will not let such transgressions slide.So, gentlemen, I beseech you to ponder deeply - do you wish to meet your end alongside me?"The moment Keelin's words escaped her lips, a palpable dread gripped every soul present, including Dempsey."Keelin, you've surely lost your mind!Your actions doom not only us but our very
Suddenly, an icy gaze from the cab driver permeated the air. From an external perspective, Benjamin might seem like a sly trickster trying to deceive Laelia with empty promises. A thought which made the driver smirk malevolently. Meanwhile, Benjamin felt an unsettling aura momentarily but dismissed it. At that very moment, Laelia exclaimed: "Are you sure this is the right way? This doesn’t lead to the 14th district but the main east-west artery, towards the city outskirts!" At the distant call of Laelia, the eyes of the taxi driver narrowed sharply. Moments later, his face betrayed a hint of awkwardness as he turned to address both Laelia and Benjamin. "My sincerest apologies. I seem to have taken the wrong turn. Also, to reach district fourteen, there's a section under construction. We need to divert through the East-West boulevard to get there." Laelia's brows furrowed slightly as she listened to the driver's explanation. However, she didn't dwell much on it, simply assuming tha
Benjamin, unbeknownst to him, was oblivious to the demonic prince's frenzy over the armor. He held in his hand a command token, under which lay a somewhat tragic corpse. However, a familiar energy emanated from the token, causing his brows to furrow deeply, for a voice resounded urgently within his mind."Chirp chirp!"Deep in thought, Benjamin was roused by Alan's voice. The creature, now the size of a sparrow, perched gracefully upon his shoulder.Recognizing the intention behind the creature's head rubbing against him, a tender smile graced Benjamin's lips: "You did wonderfully." he praised."Chirp chirp!"In response, Alan regurgitated an ancient ring which landed deftly in Benjamin's palm. As it touched his skin, the ring transformed into a golden glow, wrapping around his finger. It was the space ring Benjamin had discovered in the Dragon Palace. Although the spirit inside was dormant, its basic functions remained accessible.Earlier, Benjamin had entrusted this ring to Alan to
Instantly, his face became grave. Only now did he discern the fading form of Alan, with even the flames upon it having waned by more than half. Yet, what was most alarming was the emanating ominous aura from the Demon God's heart, causing Benjamin to jolt and hurriedly shout,"Elder!""Hm?!"Hearing Benjamin's call, an ethereal figure suddenly appeared outside the central region of the altar. Its gaze locked onto the sealed space above the altar."Ha ha ha, foolish humans, my true form is almost here. Once it arrives, I'll reduce the both of you to mere ashes!"Sensing the familiar aura steadily nearing the altar, the Demon God's heart laughed triumphantly.However, a languid voice suddenly intervened,"Quiet!"Following which, an overpowering force, emanating from Benjamin, suddenly descended, shattering the very core of the heart."AHH!"A scream echoed from within. Simultaneously, an ethereal figure, eyes filled with disbelief, turned towards the altar."What is this force?!"Feeli
Boom!Boom!Several blows in succession, and Benjamin had lost track of time. But at this moment, cracks began to appear on the wall before him. They spread and widened until finally, with a full-force punch, the wall collapsed. A vast space revealed itself, stretching out before his eyes.Here, Benjamin beheld a huge sacrificial altar, filling almost the entire space. Above the altar hung a heart. Though he could not ascertain from what creature it was taken, its appearance allowed him to sense an incredibly evil energy, pervading the entire space.Moreover, this evil energy made his mind reel slightly. Were it not for his strong will, Benjamin feared he would have been bewitched by the heart.Instantly, his face marked with caution, he retreated a few steps."This is truly bizarre? How could such an altar appear here?"But just then, stepping back some twenty meters, a sound of great astonishment suddenly came from behind him.Startled, Benjamin quickly turned to see the people who
A few minutes later, a middle-aged man with blonde hair and glasses, holding a laptop, arrived looking somewhat harried and sleep-deprived. He looked toward Red, placed his hand over his chest, and rapidly spoke.“Prince Red, why have you summoned me here? My research is on the brink of completion, needing only one final step. If there's nothing urgent, I would like to return and continue with my work.”After speaking, the middle-aged man seemed incredibly impatient, ready to turn and leave.Seeing this, Red felt slightly annoyed but did not show anger. Instead, his face bore a placating expression, and he hastily replied.“Mr. Steven, I genuinely have a very important matter that requires your assistance. Agat and Orange are in trouble in New Braum, and I want you to go there and bring them back. What do you think?”Red's attitude was extremely humble, a stark contrast to his earlier arrogance and pride.However, Steven seemed not to care, his eyes sweeping the control room in a glan
However, Steven seemed uninterested, his eyes sweeping the control room before he spoke, a little annoyed.“Your Highness Red, such a trivial matter, and you call me here? If you feel overly bored, I can help you with some training time. Within the next twenty-four hours, I assure you that the time spent will not be wasted at all!”Hearing this, Red's eyes showed a hint of fear.Although the man was just a human, his strength was not particularly great. However, Steven's status in the kingdom was very special. He was a scholar, and his creativity was terrifying.Hundreds of years ago, when the kingdom of Autuman was just a small tribe on the planet Namec, their king, then a young man, luckily rescued a human, and this human was the middle-aged man before him, Steven.Harnessing the terrifying breadth of Steven's intellect, in less than a decade, Autuman evolved from a minor tribe, nestled in the wilderness of planet Namec, into a mighty empire. They conquered the entirety of Namec, an
Boom!Boom!Boom!Blood painted the sky, and countless pieces of metal debris littered the ground.A smirk formed on Benjamin's lips. He hadn't expected that after such a long slumber, its power had grown so immense.However, the sight of the scattered armor shards pained him.Such high-quality armor pieces, capable of enhancing a warrior's strength and providing incredible defense, were now in ruins. For someone of Benjamin's caliber, these armors might not pose much challenge, but if equipped by his soldiers, they would have been invaluable assets, exponentially amplifying their combat prowess.Although he felt a twinge of regret, Benjamin didn't blame Alan. Instead, he commended him."Alan, you did splendidly!""Chirp, chirp!"As Benjamin's praise graced his ears, a rush of exhilaration surged through Alan. In mere moments, his form swiftly contracted, taking on the delicate guise of a sparrow, which alighted on Benjamin's shoulder, its chirps melodious and relentless.Witnessing s
"Ha ha ha, I was merely jesting with you." he laughed with ease, his eyes dancing mischievously: "No need to take it so seriously. Anyway, feel free to examine it. It's now mine, and even if you wish, you cannot claim it."With a boisterous laugh, Benjamin, brimming with amusement, effortlessly tossed a ring towards her.Catching a glimpse of his action, a pang of surprise coursed through Fidelma. Still, she reached out, catching the item.Holding the ornate ring in her hand, she felt a strange force emanating from within. The intricate designs adorning it suggested an ancient aura. Fidelma could confidently deduce that this was a space treasure. Its grade was undoubtedly high, surpassing any artifact she had previously encountered in the annals or in the treasury of the Moonlight Religious Sect."Done examining?" His voice hinted at impatience: "If so, kindly return it."Watching Fidelma cradle the ring, almost reluctant to release it, a twitch of amusement played on Benjamin's lips.
Now, even though its headpiece had been severed, it was still far more complete than the other armors.Without hesitation, he approached, with a mere thought, his storage ring's light flared. The entire armor, along with the leader's corpse, was drawn into it.He then surveyed the surroundings once more, detecting no anomalies. Benjamin then proceeded towards Dermot's wooden house atop the hill."Boss, you're not hurt, are you?" asked Azaria, eyeing Benjamin's bloodstained appearance with a hint of concern.Benjamin glanced at him and shook his head."I'm fine; go rest. Tonight, there may be more to do. I'll handle it myself." he said, continuing straight to Dermot's bedroom.Upon seeing Benjamin's bloodied state, Irina suddenly rushed over, her face filled with alarm. She hastily grabbed his hand, her expression fraught with concern."You...you're alright?" she stammered.Seeing her worry, Benjamin merely shook his head without verbally responding. Meanwhile, Dermot emerged from the
Although puzzled, Benjamin refrained from questioning her outright. Instead, his gaze swept the room. Aside from scattered clothing and discarded food on the floor, nothing seemed amiss. It was logical. After all, someone fleeing in a hurry wouldn't leave traces behind."Where did the woman who was in your room go?" he inquired, his sudden question startling Irina, making her let out a soft gasp.At her reaction, Benjamin's eyebrows furrowed, his gaze growing wary: "What did you ask?" she stammered, fear evident in her voice.Reiterating his query but with more firmness, he watched as Irina visibly shrank back, finally murmuring: "She...she said she had something to do and left. Can...can you not look at me like that? I'm truly scared."Tears welled up in her eyes as she spoke, every word dripping with fear. Benjamin felt a pang of confusion but, before he could react, she threw herself at him, gripping him tightly: "Please don't go. I'm truly terrified. This place... I can't bear to