"He is a Sequence 2 Angel. With a deliberate ambush, even another Sequence 2 could be affected. It was only thanks to the Sealed Artifact my father left me that I resisted this plague."
A chill immediately ran through Edward's heart. "Then, now that I've noticed it, does that mean I won't be affected anymore?"
"No. You've merely become aware of the hypnosis and Psychological Suggestion again."
"So even if I know I've been hypnotized, I'll still do certain things against my will?" Edward's expression shifted uncertainly. "Do you have any way to remove the hypnosis affecting me?"
Bernadette shook her head. "No. Perhaps I can try once I advance to Sequence 2."
"I understand."
Edward nodded. He was not actually too panicked-he could still ask Mr. Fool for help with something like this. At least in the original story, his Paper Angels had been remarkably effective against Spectator hypnosis, Psychological Suggestion, and the like.
His only concern was whether Klein's current Paper Angels could deal with Sequence 2 hypnosis and Psychological Suggestion.
If all else fails, I'll ask the Goddess for help... She should probably, possibly be willing to help, right?
Bernadette added, "But you probably don't need to worry too much in the short term. That Ancient Dragon still needs you to do something for Him, after all. Until it's done, your safety shouldn't be much of an issue."
"Mm."
Edward said earnestly, "Thank you very much, Your Majesty. Otherwise, I probably wouldn't even know how I met my end."
She smiled faintly. "Just tell me a few more stories next time."
"By the way, I have a Sealed Artifact here. Could I trouble you to help test its effects?"
Edward took out the Picture Frame.
Bernadette looked surprised. "A picture frame? What does it do?"
"Well, it's