The Decayer looked at Angel. "I originally had no intention of intervening in your trial."
"After all, I was once the host here. Even after stepping down, I should still uphold the fairness of the rules." The Decayer paused. "However, since Wicks has made it clear that the Lord God wishes to see you, helping out now would not count as cheating. It would be assisting the Lord God."
The purpose of Scholar's Nine Chapters was to grant trial-takers the qualification to meet the Cruel Scholar.
In other words, Angel had come to the Heart Chapter for the trial precisely to meet the Cruel Scholar.
And now, the Cruel Scholar had plainly said: let him pass as soon as possible.
Angel's purpose in taking part in the Heart Chapter had already been achieved. The remaining "trial" was merely going through the motions.
Under such circumstances, whether it was the three choices hosted by the Little Demon or the Decayer's guidance, neither counted as "cheating." Rather... it was helping lovers find fulfillment, and following divine will.
"Besides, you have shown me immense kindness. This small repayment is the only thing I can do for you at present." The Decayer's gaze drifted toward Elan at his side. Warmth and wistfulness now filled his once-void eyes.
On the other side, Angel and the Little Demon host both wore rather subtle expressions after hearing the Decayer's explanation.
Never mind the Decayer's later explanation. That single sentence—"Kagu is my follower"—had already left them speechless.
What could they do? It sounded so reasonable.
The scales in Angel's heart began to sway as well.
Although he felt that he could pass by relying on his own ability and choosing based on "stance," since there was a back door available—and it even saved Nomephins the time of checking