Xyrin Shell

"Reporting to Lord Wengerson, numerous anti-new Xyrin groups have emerged overnight, their slogans largely unified, conducting large-scale organized marches demanding the halt of the new Xyrin project."

In Sun City's council chamber, various officials reacted to the report.

"Absolutely idiotic! Do these fools know what they're doing?!" One slammed his hands on the table in anger.

"Inconceivable! I never imagined our Sun City citizens were so shortsighted," others quickly echoed.

Then, a senior council member spoke, "Criticizing them is futile. There are more important matters to consider."

The council chamber fell silent.

The more important matter, of course, was identifying the mole.

"Nino warned us before his dismissal; we didn't take his warnings seriously enough," Mayor Wengerson said slowly.

"Even so, he tried to smear the Sun Trade Association with his accusations, which were tainted by personal grudges. How can we trust him?" A middle-aged man interjected hastily.

Although he said this, scrutinizing glances turned towards the Sun Trade Association representatives.

"Furthermore, there's no evidence to prove there's a mole among us. Perhaps the Night Hunters' clandestine Miracles are impossible to detect," another suggested.

"If what happened that night wasn't enough, what just happened is," a youthful voice said.

That was Navida, one of the Sun City library representatives. Though scholars were given a seat in the council chamber, representing Sun City's education, their presence was minimal. There were council meetings where they were completely silent, not even casting votes.

Perhaps the situation had reached a critical point, forcing them to speak.

The speaker was a young man, no older than forty, a rare sight in the long-standing and largely inherited council.

His crimson scholar's robes couldn't hide his charisma.

His handsome face held an air of quiet confidence.

"Navida, what do you mean? Do you intend to drag us all into the mire? Things are already chaotic; we can't afford further turmoil. The delegations are still here; are we to make a mockery of ourselves with infighting?" A trade association representative protested.

Navida scoffed, "It's not what I intend, but the reality. Did you hear what the marchers said in the report?"

"We imposed a city-wide curfew soon after the incident. We learned about the Eternal Night from the Night Hunter Church and Nino's warnings. And yet, barely a day has passed, and those commoners know all this. Doesn't that seem ridiculous to you?"

His words silenced the council chamber.

Information had been leaked.

The Eternal Night's appearance in the city, the Night Hunter Church's attack, and Sun City's perilous situation...

"Furthermore, the processions are organized, emerging soon after the presentation. Sun City didn't have so many latent groups before…" Mayor Wengerson spoke gravely, revealing his position.

While Xyrin worship existed, Sun City knew the rules of Dreamland; they couldn't openly permit Xyrin, a Miraculous creation, to become an object of explicit faith.

Any groups would be disbanded; the stubborn ones would be destroyed.

Someone was clearly fanning the flames, stirring trouble, and had been preparing for this moment.

Inciting the public at the presentation, working with the Night Hunter Church to sabotage the Xyrin core node, and disrupting the new Xyrin project.

Using the Night Hunter Church's actions to reveal secrets to the public and to spread rumors that the attack was retribution for Sun City's disrespect.

Completely instigating public resistance, creating widespread negative impact.

One step after another, clearly planned. Ignoring these connections was weak and unconvincing.

The problem was laid bare; those in the council chamber felt unease.

But simply staring wouldn't resolve anything; this couldn't be solved in the council chamber.

Putting the deadlock aside, someone swallowed nervously before speaking: "Should the new Xyrin project be temporarily suspended?"

"Suspending it isn't ideal. Not only has the project been underway for a long time, suspending it now would lead the public to believe we are yielding, that they are right," Wengerson said.

"But the current situation…"

"We must continue," Wengerson stated firmly, "With so many envoys and craftsmen from the southern factions here, we have a reason to seek their support. Recreating the Xyrin is complex; even Mr. Kim Jeong-gang lacks absolute confidence."

"Speaking of which, are those craftsmen alright?" someone asked.

Wengerson replied, "They've been shaken, but a little reassurance has worked wonders. Some of them would gladly die at the moment of Xyrin's birth, if they could create it."

"Therefore, the Xyrin recreation project will not be suspended. In fact, it must proceed even more rapidly, immediately."

The meeting concluded with Wengerson's resolute words.

...

The Xyrin recreation plan would proceed immediately.

This news wasn't hidden; it was blatantly broadcast, as if to taunt the agitated citizens.

Hearing this, the marchers became even more agitated. Some, swept up in the fervor, transformed into martyrs, attempting to prevent the project.

Their fanaticism was exaggerated.

Mithra and Nie Hong's route back to Planet Blue was blocked. The inner city's teleportation points were all closed, making it troublesome to leave.

They had no choice but to return to Nino's home.

Shortly after returning, a retainer visited Nino.

"Lord Wengerson summons you," Nino said with surprise.

"Yes, and you may bring your friend who displayed skills during the incident in the southwest district," the retainer said, looking at Mithra.

Nino turned to Mithra, who gave a nod.

Ultimately, the two went to Wengerson's manor.

Specifically mentioning Mithra was unexpected. It was unclear what the mayor wanted.

The mayor received them in his study.

"Nino, how is retirement?" The man, his face lined, greeted them with a cordial smile.

"Not bad. I've been busy for so long, I can relax. It would be better if there weren't so many worries," Nino replied, unfazed by Wengerson's presence.

Mithra recognized a strong connection between the two men; they were likely old friends.

"I'm truly sorry. My mismanagement is forcing you to worry, even in retirement. You caused quite a stir with the Trade Association, didn't you?" Wengerson sighed, shaking his head.

"I've dedicated myself to this city," Nino said firmly.

"I know. You always have been…" Wengerson seemed lost in thought.

Nino interrupted, "Lord Mayor, what do you want us to do?"

"Ah, yes. I only intended to reminisce; it's been too long since we talked properly… Well, I wonder where I should begin?"

With this prelude, Wengerson quickly told Nino and Mithra about the recent council meeting.

Nino's warnings had been confirmed, but investigating the mole was difficult and needed to be resolved as quickly as possible while the Xyrin project continued.

"So what's your intention?"

"Nino, I trust your abilities. Among those in Sun City, you are one of the best. And there is your friend, who demonstrated his abilities in the Wandering God incident. He even served as a commissioned investigator for us."

Nino and Mithra knew what Wengerson wanted.

"I can appoint you as special investigators. I hope you'll help uncover the mole within Sun City. Do you two wish to help Sun City?"

"Uh… Well…" Nino glanced at Mithra.

Commissioning him made sense; his current situation was perfectly suited for the job. His connections were limited, his dismissal was recent, and he had made significant contributions. He was trustworthy.

Moreover, his strength was reliable. It was natural for Wengerson to choose him; in fact, no one in Sun City was more suited for the task.

But bringing Mithra along was unconventional.

The Chrysalis incident had been about what to do with Mithra, using the Sanctuary compendium as a temporary solution; her performance was unexpected, and the council didn't pay much attention.

This matter, however, could determine Sun City's fate. Even with Mithra's previous achievements, it didn't justify including her in the same capacity as Nino.

Nino didn't think Mithra wasn't worthy. He'd be delighted to have her help, but he was concerned that Mithra, as someone from Enchanting Land, might become too entangled with Sun City.

The internal issues were complex; that was the nature of a small temple hosting a great demon.

"Well… if the compensation is sufficient, I have no objections," Mithra said after a moment's thought.

"Sun City isn't so poor that it can't provide adequate compensation. This is not the time to be stingy. We must mobilize all available power," Wengerson replied with a smile.

Mithra nodded: "Then I'll be direct, Lord Mayor. What's your stance on the new Xyrin project?"

Nino almost choked.

She had just accepted the task and was now investigating their employer?

While the mayor was logically a suspect, Mithra's speed was startling.

Wengerson laughed, "Hahaha, good, good, good. This is the attitude of a proper investigator. One inner-city person and one from Enchanting Land—it's the perfect team, isn't it? Unrestrained by inner-city relationships, you'll have a broader perspective. Yes, I can be a suspect."

Nino nodded approvingly.

Mithra stared silently at Wengerson, her expression unchanged.

Wengerson gently stroked the book in his hand before speaking slowly: "The Xyrin is essential for us. Of course, that probably sounds ridiculous to those outside the Xyrin Empire."

"Many mock us, calling us a bunch of people who can only sit and wait for the world to crumble, relying on the remnants of our ancestors. From my perspective, that's true. For generations, I and the Mayors before me have been unable to reverse the decline since the Wandering God's chaos. We yearn for Rising Sun City's glory, but can only look up to them. We're simply not capable enough."

Nino looked sympathetic, "That's partly my fault."

"Nino, you did all you could in your position. This has little to do with you; it's a strategic problem, the fault of me, the mayor," Wengerson said, shaking his head.

"Most people in Sun City are pathologically dependent on the Xyrin," Mithra bluntly stated, ignoring the atmosphere.

"That's right," Wengerson agreed. "Formally, we avoid treating the Xyrin as a religion, but in reality, we're powerless to stop it from reaching that point. The people of Sun City are ignorant, narrow-minded. In the chaotic Dreamland, they're like swaddled infants. It's unrealistic, impossible, to force them to leave the Xyrin now."

"So you believe the new Xyrin must be born… Have you considered repairing the old Xyrin?" Mithra followed up.

Wengerson looked at Mithra, surprised. Mithra stared back with her dark eyes.

"The technological levels of the old Xyrin and the present differ greatly. It's not simply about which is better; it's about design differences. The chances of repair are extremely low." Nino answered for Wengerson.

Wengerson continued: "Also, if the Xyrin were to go out during the repair process, even briefly, it would be a major blow to Sun City; we can't be careless. Our plan is to seamlessly transition from the old Xyrin to the new one, letting the old one burn until its final moment."

Mithra didn't dwell on this issue or react, leaving it ambiguous whether she accepted the answer.

She paused, then said, "After the new Xyrin is successfully lit, will you let Sun City's current state continue? Or will you delay this chaos for hundreds, or thousands of years?"

"…," Wengerson fell silent, not answering immediately.

Nino sighed.

"Perhaps these questions are too difficult for us right now. We asked Mr. Kim Jeong-gang and his team to consider how to ensure the new Xyrin's longevity," Wengerson finally said.

Was it not simply putting off dealing with the underlying problems by maintaining the status quo for as long as possible?

Mithra thought for a moment, "Then I'm finished. Do you have any questions?" She asked Nino.

Nino looked awkward.

She had asked everything that should and shouldn't be asked; what could he add?

He was supposed to be leading and Mithra to assist, but he now felt like he was assisting her.

With that, the conversation ended. After exchanging a few more pleasantries, Mithra and Nino officially received their commission and secret orders from Wengerson.

This proved their authorization.

The two departed Wengerson's residence.

"The work ahead won't be easy, and we'll likely attract a lot of hatred," Nino said.

"Do we care about that? Besides, what's your relationship with Wengerson?" Mithra countered.

"We were classmates. In our youth, we studied together in Rising Sun City. His family was wealthier, but he was never arrogant. Aside from academics, I excelled in everything. We were roommates; he took care of me," Nino replied.

"Didn't he help you, given your poor standing among Sun City's elite?" Mithra asked curiously.

To have a mayor as a friend, yet still be susceptible to blackmail and dismissal...

Nino looked embarrassed. "I'm not skilled in social relations. Wengerson keeps his personal and professional lives separate; the council isn't entirely controlled by the mayor. The problem was me; he helped initially, but there were some conflicts that he couldn't resolve."

Mithra nodded, saying nothing further, turning to look at the Xyrin overhead.

The Xyrin's light was so bright, yet without warmth.

"Let's split up. Efficiency is crucial. We need to thoroughly search the inner city," Mithra said.

Nino thought for a moment, agreeing. The two swiftly departed.

...

Reaching Nino's home, Mithra located the bored Nie Hong, who seemed ready to sprout mold.

When Nie Hong learned about Mithra's appointment, he was speechless with surprise.

"Bored? Want to join? You'd probably miss some classes; hopefully your teacher won't notice," Mithra said.

The first part excited Nie Hong, but the latter comment dampened his enthusiasm. "There's only one class in the Ki department, with only a handful of students. Everyone knows when someone's absent."

"If you want to return, I can escort you to the teleportation point," Mithra said.

It was the peak of the protest; with tensions escalating, the Planet Blue natives had been inexplicably caught in the crossfire. However, Mithra, with her temporary authority, could easily arrange safe passage.

Nie Hong perked up. "I'll stay and assist!

Mithra suspected he was motivated by a desire for a well-deserved vacation.

Wengerson hadn't forbidden bringing others; the workload was significant, and a few assistants would be reasonable.

Mithra turned. "Let's go."

Mithra's usual long strides forced Nie Hong to jog to keep up.

"Mithra, who are we investigating first?" Nie Hong asked eagerly.

Now wielding the power of an authority figure, he wanted to target the Dreamland elites.

"The craftsmen," Mithra said.

"Huh?"

...

Sun City's Xyrin Art Garden.

Sun City's craftsman training is still somewhat unique; the "fertilizer" left by their ancestors created excellent soil.

The Xyrin Art Garden was a gathering place for Sun City craftsmen; they worked, taught, and conducted all sorts of activities here.

But now, it was deserted, with debris scattered across the grounds.

It was close to the Xyrin core node, so the Night Hunter Church's attack had severely affected it. The sounds of battle from the Eternal Night defense line could still be heard. Careful observation revealed glimpses of rampaging Eternal Night creatures.

Sun City lacked the resources to repair it. All other tasks were temporarily suspended, with the exception of the new Xyrin.

The new Xyrin project remained here, safe and difficult to relocate.

Mithra headed for the project, entering a building and descending underground.

The new Xyrin project was being conducted in secret underground.

Based on what Mithra learned from Nino, the new Xyrin project had been underway for a long time.

It could be traced back to several years prior.

Initially, Sun City craftsmen discovered the problem and secretly gathered resources to attempt a solution. Realizing that their skills and resources were limited, they sought assistance from Rising Sun City.

A small number of personnel moved between them, working towards the old and new Xyrin.

Until last year, the project was entirely controlled by Sun City.

But they couldn't conceal it any longer.

Simple guidance could no longer progress the project. So, after careful consideration, Sun City made the right decision.

Boldly seeking the aid of capable individuals, they accepted a large-scale influx of Rising Sun City craftsmen just a few months ago.

The new Xyrin project rapidly advanced.

Having overcome many difficulties, confirmed the probability of success, and hoping to garner further support, they organized the presentation.

Mithra, thanks to the mayor's warrant, moved freely through the heavily guarded area.

Finally, in the somewhat chilly underground complex, she found the busy project team.

"Wow. Although my impression of Dreamland is always one of medieval fantasy, the cyberpunk feel of its Miracle technology always throws me off," Nie Hong commented, examining the machinery and wiring.

Mithra, led by a guard, continued inward.

Gradually, they glimpsed a massive object, a small section of a much larger whole.

Overall, it looked spherical, but with a complex structure: an array of Miraculous machinery.

A prominent feature was a large octahedral shape, emanating a powerful Miraculous aura.

"What's going on?" Mithra heard a familiar voice, followed by approaching footsteps.

The elderly Kim Jeong-gang approached Mithra, followed by several craftsmen in thick work clothes. He frowned as he saw Mithra.

"Greetings, sir. I'm here to gather information on the new Xyrin on behalf of Sun City," Mithra stated.

"Our progress is constantly being reported," Kim Jeong-gang said, seemingly not recognizing Mithra, though he likely wouldn't care even if he did.

"Collecting additional data to provide a foundation for internal issues," Mithra said, polite.

"A waste of time," Kim Jeong-gang never liked the Sun City locals.

Mithra's approach was an affront.

Mithra was about to speak when an alarm sounded overhead.

Rumble—

An explosion came from the project site.

Mithra was taken aback; Her history of explosions must be cursed.

"Warning! Someone is trying to sabotage the new Xyrin!" An announcement blared throughout the complex, explaining the explosion.

"Damn it! What are you doing?! Stop them immediately! Where did the saboteurs come from?!" Kim Jeong-gang shouted.

Suddenly, a figure burst into the group of craftsmen led by Kim Jeong-gang.

"Xyrin forev—"

Thwack!

Before the sound was complete, a white, bladed whip flashed, slicing across the figure's throat. Blood sprayed, shocking the craftsmen.

Kim Jeong-gang was especially shaken. The whip had almost hit his nose.

Mithra retrieved the whip, looking around: "Time to work. Nie Hong, watch over them."

Before Nie Hong could speak, Mithra slammed her staff into the ground and vanished.

...

Chaos erupted within the complex.

The attack shocked the craftsmen, who had considered themselves safe there.

The attackers had two targets: the unfinished Xyrin and the craftsmen in charge.

Most of the attackers didn't appear to be highly skilled. They were mostly suicidal, and the guards were able to subdue them.

But not all attackers were mere rabble.

Swish!

Several guards were slashed across the throat and collapsed in the corridor.

Krutz was a mercenary from Planet Blue's Dreamland.

Compared to Planet Blue's Dreamland, the number of available contracts meant you could get any job easily - murder, arson, robbery.

His current contract was challenging, but the pay was generous.

Considering his comfortable life lock, he felt it was worth the risk.

"Did the Night Hunters release a bunch of monsters? There are fewer guards than I thought! Looks like I found a loophole. This is going to be easy money," Krutz boasted.

He had a habit of thoroughly gathering intel before accepting a contract. Now, he felt his habit had paid off.

He was already thinking about how to spend his generous payment.

As he pondered, he grabbed a craftsman, stabbing the man's eye, stirring violently before thrusting it into his brain, killing him.

"A bunch of pigs, all this faith and nonsense! Miracles? I don't care about Miracles! They're tools," Krutz said.

Leaving the body, he headed towards the massive new Xyrin, pulling out a Miraculous artifact—a "Miracle Bomb"—filled with destructive Miracles to destroy the area.

Many competitors were after the contract, but he seemed to be the first to arrive.

Before he could celebrate further, he saw someone standing in the shadows.

Quickly using Reinforce Body to enhance his vision, he saw a cloaked figure standing motionless, surrounded by corpses.

Krutz had been noticed. The figure turned, facing him, holding a small, seemingly harmless weapon.

It barely qualified as a weapon; it looked more like a gardening tool.

A dark purple crescent blade.

The image was somewhat bizarre, but Krutz didn't retreat.

He was a valued person from Planet Blue, with plenty of life lock. He could retreat.

Then, he saw the figure holding the crescent blade horizontally in front of them, wiping the blade with one hand.

That stance might have been impressive with other weapons, but with that blade, it was comical.

Suddenly, the figure rushed towards Krutz.

Krutz raised his curved blade, easily blocking...

Bang!

A resounding boom erupted, completely unlike the sound of two weapons colliding!

Krutz stumbled backward, his arm trembling, his face horrified.

Had that really been that toy crescent blade, no bigger than a dagger? Why did it feel like he had been struck by a greatsword?!

The figure stepped forward again, lightly thrusting the crescent blade.

The distance was short, with limited space to evade. Krutz braced, further reinforcing his body for protection, putting both hands on the knife.

Bang!

He stumbled, unable to stop himself from retreating.

How was it heavier?! The impact should be lighter, not heavier!

It defied logic. What miracle could cause such an effect?!

The opponent gave Krutz no time to react. The crescent blade weaved in a high-frequency flurry, beautiful to behold.

Except, the crescent blade was NOT a small weapon!

Krutz's defenses crumbled and he was forced into a defensive stance. Suddenly, he felt his body become sluggish.

By the time he realized the problem, it was too late. The crescent blade thrust repeatedly, shattering his posture, and pierced his neck before sweeping across.

Squelch!

His life lock shattered, Krutz clutched at his rapidly healing neck, pulling back for distance.

Fear began to spread. The situation was completely wrong.

The other, stepping forward quietly, continued to thrust, unconcerned with his resurrection.

Initially stunned, he lost a life lock to the opponent's series of attacks.

The brief resurrection allowed Krutz to react.

He couldn't engage in unprepared close combat with that crescent blade.

Light emanated from his chest, which was covered by his clothing.

Stone quickly formed, creating armor on Krutz's body.

["Adherence": Rock Miracle. Uses senses to create a miracle of clinging dust and stone, which normally increases physical defense, binding a stone-like hardness to the flesh, turning the user to solid stone.]

Next, stone patterns appeared on Krutz's legs.

["Impetus": Rock Miracle. Uses senses to create a swirling stone and sand vortex around the body, which briefly grants a large increase to physical burst and durability.]

Dirt and dust swirled around Krutz, forming a small sandstorm centered on his body. He charged at Mithra.

Mithra quickly recalled the knowledge related to Stone Miracles.

Stone Miracles were broad, with the most versatility of all natural Miracles. "Hardness" and "Burst" were common.

Krutz used the two most common Stone Miracles.

Moreover, both Miracles released patterns on his outer body, which were carved into his body - Clarity-enhanced miracles.

Facing Krutz's charge, Mithra braced, slashing with the crescent blade.

Bang!

Mithra flew backward, overturned by the Clarity-enhanced Impetus Miracle.

Her body crashed into a pile of pipes. Lying in the debris, she stared at the ceiling before standing.

The crescent blade could amplify her attacks but not defend against those of others, nor mitigate impact. The touch actually impaired her judgment, causing adverse effects.

Krutz stopped and changed direction, charging Mithra again.

Mithra slashed, the burst and impact amplified by the crescent blade.

After a moment, Krutz's Impetus Miracle was deflected, and he stumbled, reaching for the wall to steady himself.

Stone Miracles were effective against bladed weapons, but had limited effect against the crescent blade. The force of the crescent blade was sometimes comparable to blunt force.

The repeated use of Clarity-enhanced Impetus was less effective. Though Mithra appeared battered, she was far from falling. Despite being repeatedly hit, she displayed little apparent damage.

The encounter had taken too long.

Krutz decided to retreat.

As he readied himself to use Impetus for a powerful charge, dizziness washed over him; his vision turned black and his senses faltered.

His senses were failing.

He was overdrawn on his life lock.

What was going on?

Clarity amplifies miracle power and even reduces sense use . This has to be his biggest advantage!

This has to be his Clarity Believer's biggest advantage!

Although burst-type Rock Miracles had higher maintenance costs, this could not be happening after just a short time!

As he turned, Krutz found his mark and cast his gaze on Mithra and her crescent blade.

What in the world sort of weapon was it?!

What purpose would an ability this repulsive serve

Without regard for Kruz's stare Mithra caught the mark in her arm and cast a second blow.

Kruz made his Rock Miracle prevent the blow, the 'adherence' allowing the heavy figure to brace for the impact. With one foot on the ground to steady himself, he prepared for a counter attack as his senses began to fail him.

The next thrust connected an instant after contact, and the same sound and sensation brought him to near insensibility, and his totem shattered.

But during that moment of contact on Kruz body.

He snapped at her.

The mind went blank and body miracle failed, long revered power tomes falling open as it all hit.

His armor shattered, revealing vulnerabilities in his hardened body.

Mithra countered, slashing downwards. The crescent blade sliced across his throat, severing his head.

Bang!

Another life lock shattered.

Krutz tumbled to the ground, trying to distance himself from Mithra.

He was terrified.

Having lost all his life locks, only his final life remained. He was far from mastering Clarity and didn't have more life locks.

Fortunately, upon resurrection, his state was restored. He desperately channeled his senses, raising another dust storm.

Accelerating, he instantly left Mithra behind.

Seeing this, the Night Hunter Greatsword's hilt pierced through Mithra's back, revealing the weapon.

She drew the greatsword and activated its Miracle.

Mithra first created a Hunting Blade, but didn't immediately throw it. She continued to expend senses, using the crescent blade to slash across the charging Hunting Blade.

Amplification.

Violet and dark purple, two beams of light, formed a cross-shaped energy blade that surged forward, growing larger.

Krutz ran, not daring to look back. But the increasingly bright light rapidly approached, engulfing him in despair.

Mithra, holding both weapons, looked at the now-expanded tunnel, shrugging. "I shouldn't have to clean this up, right?"

There were no further disturbances.

Mithra sheathed both weapons and turned towards the new Xyrin.

Approaching it, she examined it closely.

[Xyrin Shell: This shell is prepared for the third Xyrin, combining the skills and knowledge of many master craftsmen. Its technological aspects may have reached their limit, but they likely understood their flaw wasn't technology, but understanding of Miracles.]

Reading the Night eye's description, Mithra shook her head, saying nothing, instead beginning to search the corpses she had killed.

There was nothing of value; the Night eye examined the bodies for a long time, finding no Miraculous artifacts.

Only the unused Miracle bombs remained.

Around that time, the guards arrived.

They weren't late; Mithra had simply been too fast.

Moreover, the guards stationed here had been ambushed, and some mercenaries had been killed.

Mithra didn't interact with them. The guard captain knew her identity, and offered no interference as she left.

After inquiring, Mithra found the craftsmen who had been sheltering in the safe room.

She entered to the sound of Kim Jeong-gang's continued ranting.

Nie Hong was covered in dust and breathing heavily. He hadn't been idle.

Seeing Mithra, Nie Hong seemed relieved.

"Everyone seems in good spirits; have you encountered something good?"

But Mithra's casual question made the atmosphere tense.

"Good? You think this is good?" Kim Jeong-gang glared at Mithra.

That comment was incredibly insensitive in the current situation.

"Isn't the project stalled? Let's relax and consider solutions," Mithra said.

Kim Jeong-gang and some of the craftsmen looked perplexed. "What do you mean? What's stalled?"

Mithra said plainly, "The external components are almost complete, excellent work, but the core component seems to be progressing poorly."

"…I remember now. Didn't you encounter an outsider in the southwest district?" Kim Jeong-gang's expression was unpleasant, as he suddenly recalled something.

"You still remember me? What an honor," Mithra mimicked Kimio.

Kim Jeong-gang wasn't joking. "You're an outsider. What right do you have to judge? Are your skills superior to all of us here?"

"It's not my judgment; it's reliable information, which I can't disclose," Mithra replied.

"Hmph, ridiculous! While I appreciate you saving us, don't interfere in our field! Sun City will arrange compensation. Please leave. You won't find the information you seek here. Sun City's internal matters are none of your business," Kim Jeong-gang said, turning away.

Nie Hong spoke up, "That old man has such a bad temper. You knew he was irritable and still provoked him."

"Other people's feelings aren't typically in my calculations," Mithra responded casually.

Nie Hong nodded in understanding; it wasn't something to consider.

After a while, the guards announced that the immediate danger had passed, though they were still investigating for any remaining attackers or hidden threats.

It was best to wait. Many craftsmen, shaken, remained in the safe room.

But Kim Jeong-gang and a few others couldn't wait, eager to assess the damage and casualties, heading back with the guards.

Mithra didn't intend to stay. She had gathered the necessary intelligence, and the underground base was stifling.

As they were leaving, Mithra was called back.

She turned to see Kim So-yang, Kim Jeong-gang's granddaughter and apprentice craftsman.

Wearing the same work clothes as the other craftsmen and a mask, she was almost unrecognizable.

"Miss Mithra, could we talk?" Kim So-yang asked anxiously.

"What is it?"

"Grandfather is under immense pressure. He is truly grateful for your help, but he's extremely stressed about the new Xyrin project; he's sorry for his behavior," Kim So-yang said, her head bowed.

Mithra nodded. "Are you worried I'll report him?"

Kim So-yang looked up, about to speak, but stopped.

"Don't worry. Your grandfather isn't under investigation. My temporary position isn't significant; I can't interfere with the new Xyrin project. I merely needed to verify some information; I'm satisfied."

Nie Hong unexpectedly added, "Miss Mithra, by the way, your grandfather is in poor health; his Ki is severely depleted. Don't overwork him; he needs to rest."

Mithra was surprised but said nothing.

Ki sensing wasn't limited to detecting strength; Mithra hadn't trained it beyond basic use as a radar.

Nie Hong seemed to have a deeper understanding of Ki sensing.

Kim So-yang wasn't entirely surprised, but still looked worried. "That's true, but I can't persuade Grandfather. It's because of our family…"

"Your family?" Nie Hong interjected.

"Although we're known as descendants of the 'second Xyrin craftsman,' that title doesn't hold much weight in Rising Sun City. Rising Sun City has many top Dreamland craftsmen; the competition is fierce. Being immigrants, we've struggled to fit in. Despite Grandfather's skills and high position, our family has been struggling. Father died young, and things have gotten harder," Kim So-yang said, revealing everything.

Mithra and Nie Hong quickly understood Kim So-yang, Kim Jeong-gang, and their family situation.

Declining skills, lack of successors, dwindling population.

With Kim Jeong-gang's impending retirement and Kim So-yang's father's death, only a handful remained, led by Kim So-yang.

Kim So-yang, a woman in Dreamland, had earned Kim Jeong-gang's respect. Besides being his granddaughter, her talent was exceptional, and she worked hard, but it wasn't enough.

This new Xyrin project was crucial for Kim Jeong-gang.

Successfully completing it would establish the Kim family's position in Xyrin Empire history, creating a favorable environment for Kim So-yang and other younger family members.

Even if he died afterward.

Nie Hong was speechless, experiencing a gravity unimaginable from his Planet Blue perspective.

After a moment of silence, Mithra turned and left without comment: "I wish you all the best."

Nie Hong quickly followed.

Kim So-yang stood there, stunned, calling out thanks. Only Nie Hong waved back.

Exiting the underground facility, back under the Xyrin's sunlight, Nie Hong felt instantly relaxed.

The underground environment had been stifling, and there had been the ambush.

He had been involved in quite a lot today. Was he unlucky, or what?

…Wait, everything he'd experienced was also related to Mithra. Both internships had been exceptionally eventful...

Nie Hong quickly dismissed the impious thought.

The ground level was chaotic; many people were running around due to the underground attack.

The underground project team had been infiltrated; the new Xyrin project was threatened—a serious situation.

The public's protests, manipulated by those seeking to cause chaos, were no longer limited to marches; mercenaries from outside the city were also involved, escalating the situation.

Mithra and Nie Hong were briefly stopped for questioning but allowed to pass. They soon encountered Nino.

"Mithra!" Nino hurried towards them, "You went to the craftsmen?"

Mithra had only asked him to investigate the trade association, not revealing her own plans. He hadn't thought about it then, but she hadn't investigated Sun City's internal affairs; she'd gone to the craftsmen!

And she happened to be there during the attack.

"You could say that. It's fortunate I was there," Mithra replied impassively.

"…Right, it's fortunate you were there." Nino understood. Mithra had practically saved the new Xyrin project, but in the urgency, there wasn't time for praise.

The highly secured underground project had been infiltrated; a cloud of suspicion hung over Sun City.

"How about you?"

"I had little progress, but after receiving the report, I had a breakthrough," Nino said, seizing the opportunity to speak about his progress.

"The infiltrators included mercenaries. Dreamland mercenaries have a notorious reputation, but they're frequently employed by various factions; they'll do anything for money," Nino explained.

"Sun City uses mercenaries?"

"Yes. The Trade Association is primarily responsible for hiring them. I've investigated this. To prevent future disputes, Sun City's contracts with mercenaries are meticulously documented."

Nie Hong scratched his head. "Surely not even an underground infiltration would be documented by the Trade Association. Didn't the Sun Trade Association review the contracts?"

Nino offered a wry smile.

Nie Hong and Mithra remained silent.

"They weren't verified?"

"There are many mercenaries; not every job is verified. Many contracts are vague; as long as the process is normal, they go through the Trade Association,"

"The mastermind uses the official channels?!" Nie Hong exclaimed.

Using their own funds to betray themselves?

"Can you trace the source?"

"It's difficult. Officially, the Sun Trade Association commissioned the work, but they are also in chaos after my discovery. Something big will happen," Nino shook his head. "Further investigation might reveal more clues. The use of official channels will leave a trace. However, I'd only just started when I heard you were here…"

Nino stopped; Mithra had turned to look in a certain direction.

"What?"

"It seems someone doesn't want Sun City to enjoy any peace," Mithra said.

A strong aura of darkness was approaching.

Not from the known Eternal Night rift, but from elsewhere.

Incredibly strong.