Within the timeless Gray Mist, crimson stars lit up one after another. A blurry figure slowly stretched out from each star and took a seat in the corresponding chair.
For some reason, Alger, the Hanged Man, keenly sensed that the atmosphere at today's Tarot Club gathering was somewhat... strange.
He carefully examined the other Tarot Club members around him. Miss Justice, whom he knew in the real world, looked subdued, lacking her usual cheerfulness, and seemed to be pondering something. Meanwhile, Madam Magician appeared rather lost, as though questioning her entire life.
What happened?
Not long after returning to Backlund to report to his superiors, Alger had left again and set out to sea. As the captain of a privateer, he was never going to stay in Backlund for long.
But Alger chose to remain silent. He had never liked being the first to speak, preferring instead to assess the situation.
After a brief silence, the Fool spoke. "I'm glad to see that several of you are still able to attend this gathering after the catastrophe in Backlund."
Almost as soon as he heard the Fool's words, Alger's eyelids twitched violently.
Another catastrophe in Backlund?
What happened this time?
Did some high-sequence Beyonder perform a ritual, or did another evil god descend?
Why am I starting to feel that the sea is much safer than Backlund?
At the same time, he observed his companions' reactions. Justice's expression remained somewhat subdued, while the Magician's eyes suddenly widened. Alger reached a conclusion: Justice seemed to know about this, but the Magician did not.
The Magician also lives in Backlund? She must be the companion Miss Justice mentioned before. Alger thoughtfully stroked his chin, only to suddenly turn his gaze to the seat beside him.
The Lovers' seat was empty.
"Mr. Lovers informed