A Visitor to White Stone Fort

Gaia and Zoe exchanged surprised glances, but Theus paid them no mind and turned to Erwin instead. "Erwin, you're actually the one in the most danger on this trip. Zoe and Gaia are both Transcendents, so it'll be easier for them to get away, but you're an ordinary person."

"I'll be fine, my lord."

Erwin answered without hesitation.

"I've already been to Rhine once and made some contact with the local factions. Besides, people from the Ashen Alliance will assist us. We won't be alone over there."

"And if this really is a trap, then even Transcendents will be in just as much danger."

Indeed, neither the Candlelight Society nor the Mechanical Cathedral would lack experience in dealing with Transcendents.

Gaia and Zoe would not find it much easier than an ordinary person like him to escape if they ventured alone into danger.

"This operation is extremely dangerous. Be cautious above all else; completing the mission comes second. Your primary concern is ensuring your own safety. Given the Candlelight Society's and Mechanical Cathedral's usual ways of doing things, you should be able to return safely—at least, that was how things were before."

The Candlelight Society had always possessed a good reputation. The Mechanical Cathedral was indeed arrogant and conservative, but its reputation was not bad either.

But that was before the Empress's assassination attempt. Now that their attitude was unclear, it was better to be careful.

"I'll write a formal document for you to deliver. You may exercise complete discretion in negotiations with the Mechanical Cathedral. Bring several of those steam rifles with you. If they want them, you can give them all away. As long as we get the technology in exchange, none of that matters."

All three nodded. Though this diplomatic mission carried some risk, it was still