In a small guest room in the temple's rear courtyard, Celia sat on the sofa, her fair little feet swinging anxiously in the air. She wore plain white Priest's robes, her hands clasped tightly together as she nervously waited for something.
Knock, knock, knock.
A soft knock sounded at the door.
"Come in."
The guildmaster pushed the door open and entered, fatigue still lingering on his face. He respectfully bowed to Celia.
"Lady Celia," he said, his tone both reverent and obsessed, "the plan went smoothly. I forged enough clues that Xia Lin and his group should now believe the succubus's lair is in the nearby valley. They left town early this morning."
Celia let out a breath of relief, then immediately asked with concern, "How is your injury? Kade's ray hit you pretty hard."
The guildmaster touched his shoulder and forced a smile. "It looked frightening, but it's nothing serious."
"You've worked hard." Celia stopped swinging her legs and sat up straight. "I hope they fail to uncover anything and leave this place as soon as possible."
She fell silent for a while, then said worriedly, "Just don't let them run into any real danger..."
"7"
"Please rest assured, my lady," the guildmaster replied with a smile. "I altered the map I gave them slightly. It will only have them wandering in circles through the outer forest. They won't encounter anything truly dangerous."
"That's good." Celia sighed in relief, then made a face. "Except for that inquisitor who keeps a stiff face all day long!"
"My lady, you are far too kind," the guildmaster praised sincerely.
Celia snorted. Days of restraint had left her Abyssal instincts struggling to stay contained. "You've performed well this week. Come here—I'm going to reward you."
"Wait, let me drink a bottle of [Death