This was why Shade had gone to Vanessa for help that morning, and Vanessa had indeed been willing to help. As for coming to Vesta Woodland, during her previous participation in the "Love Lake" rescue mission, she had obtained the Space Spirit Rune and touched that Old Gods Statue before leaving.
Vanessa had originally wanted to give Shade a surprise, so she had never mentioned it. This time, there was no need to seek out relics or ask Grace and Helen for help.
The best place to survey the earth and forest was not within the woods outside the city, but at the highest point in the area—the location of the Golden Music Hall.
Vanessa had performed here in those days as well, though that had been many years ago. In any case, she was no stranger to this place. The Spellcasting Materials and ritual materials had also been prepared in Tobesk, so they could begin at once.
However, Vanessa did not call Shade along. Instead, she took Flora's hand.
"Bring two high-ring Followers and your apprentice, Flora. Come with me. Let's try to solve this within two hours. Hopefully, everything goes smoothly."
"Why do I have to go with you?"
the Great Witch of Death asked. Vanessa smiled.
"Because you know this place well. I don't want the Church to suddenly spot us in the middle of the ritual. I just went to the Council and left Sylvia a note, asking her and Margaret to investigate those Restorationists. As for the demon in the forest, the two of us will investigate it—Shade, see you at noon."
With that, she pulled the rather unwilling Flora out the door. Miss Bell hurried after them, but not before waving goodbye to Shade and Miss Danist, then helping them close the door.
"Sometimes,