Acting Skills

Rose Elder fell silent.

After a while, she finally said:

"Since that is the case... then Mr. Blood Owl shall serve as the sole representative of our 'Midnight Rose' and take part in the wager."

"Madam!" Yak Nail frowned tightly and spoke up.

But Rose Elder merely shook her head.

"Mr. Yak Nail, I am grateful for and deeply admire your courage and sense of responsibility... but this wager is indeed fraught with extreme danger. With your strength, I fear there is little you can do."

As she spoke, she looked at the burly man with her deep emerald eyes, her tone half appreciative and half consoling.

"I believe everyone present can feel your determination... but my decision is not merely for your safety. It is also for the greater good."

"Madam is worried... that I'll hold Blood Owl back and cause the wager to fail?"

Yak Nail asked in a low voice.

Rose Elder did not answer, remaining silent.

After a few seconds, Yak Nail seemed to deflate. He let out a long sigh and said:

"All right, I understand."

He dropped back into his seat with a thump, his fists clenched tight.

Then he raised his head toward the violet-eyed young man, the only person still standing in the room, and shouted:

"Mr. Blood Owl! You... you must win!"

"Thank you." Gilan narrowed his eyes with a smile. "I'll do my best."

"Good luck, Mr. Blood Owl!"

Spark Lady nudged him with her elbow, grinning as she winked.

Gilan returned the gesture with a gentlemanly bow.

Right afterward, whether they were acquaintances or members he had never met before, everyone offered their blessings and encouragement.

After a while.

Rose Elder rose to her feet and said:

"Everyone, why not take advantage of this gathering to exchange information? You