Stars' Advice (Please Continue Subscribing)

"One more thing," Xia Lin said, turning back to Ingrid before leaving the secret chamber. "I need you to compile a list of evidence overnight."

"Evidence?" Ingrid froze.

"Yes, evidence of Sotowa colluding with the Frostfang Raiders," Xia Lin explained. "But choose things that are relatively easy to verify, such as copies of transaction records and summaries of victim testimonies. Most importantly, you absolutely must not expose your core members or hideouts."

Ingrid was even more confused. "But everyone in Iceport has seen it. Sotowa's collusion with the pirates has long been an open secret. What evidence do we need?"

Xia Lin could not help rubbing his forehead with a sigh, speechless at the political sensitivity of this resistance leader.

"Lady Ingrid," he explained as concisely as possible, "rumors and evidence are worlds apart. In your hands, these can only prove that Sotowa is a villain. But in mine, they will become leverage to pry the kingdom into intervening. The same sword is a murder weapon in a civilian's hand, but a symbol of justice in a knight's."

Ingrid instantly understood what Xia Lin meant. Her admiration for him deepened further.

"I understand." Ingrid nodded solemnly. "Please rest assured. Before tomorrow's banquet, the things you need will be ready."

"Good." Xia Lin yawned and stretched. "Then that's that. After being busy all night, I need some sleep so I can visit that lord's estate tomorrow."

He rose and headed for the door.

Kade, Sera, and Celia exchanged glances. They all understood what Xia Lin's so-called "sleep" meant. He was going to seek advice from that "great deity" residing in his mind again.

When Xia Lin's consciousness opened its eyes again, he was already standing amid that familiar Sea of Stars.

The ruins of the Pantheon still floated in the endless