"Please, come inside!"
Upon hearing the voice, Lin Ruo and Klein promptly entered the office.
Within the office, Dunn lifted his head. His gray eyes initially fell upon Lin Ruo, and he nodded, "Mr. Favored one, good morning!"
"Good morning, Captain Dunn!" Lin Ruo replied with a smile. Then he inquired, "Speaking of which, Captain Dunn, do you have any knowledge of Tingen's Mandated Punishers's recent activities?"
Although they belonged to different churches, when significant actions took place within the Mandated Punishers, the Nighthawks usually received the news. Even major undertakings involving the official Beyonder members of the three churches would often be shared.
"Punisher..." Dunn paused, recollecting, and after a few seconds he continued, "For the past couple of days, it seems they've been vigorously searching for members of the Aurora Order. Among those being targeted are even some deacons... However, I can't provide precise details. Would you like me to look into this matter further?"
"Please do investigate, but do so discreetly. Also, keep a close eye on their activities. If they reach out for joint operations or if they make any significant moves, ensure you inform me." Lin Ruo nodded and instructed.
Indeed, understanding these matters was crucial. Grasping the storm church's trajectory could aid him in interpreting certain information and refining his future plans.
"Alright, I'll make inquiries as swiftly as possible and give you an update tomorrow." Dunn did not question Lin Ruo's motives, he simply nodded in agreement.
He turned his attention to Klein and asked, "Have you reached a decision?"
"Yes, I have." Klein nodded earnestly.
"Share your answer."
"Seer!"
Watching this scene unfold, Lin Ruo couldn't help but curl the corners of his lips.
He understood that the future Lord of Mysteries was now taking his first step.
Being part of history as it happened was indeed a rewarding sensation!
Lin Ruo continued observing the conversation between Klein and Dunn, accompanying them as they moved to the premises of the Blackthorn Security Company.
Throughout this process, Dunn imparted Beyonder knowledge to Klein. He discussed remuneration and benefits. Finally, he touched upon the Secret Order, saying, "We have taken certain actions against the Secret Order. With your capabilities and our gains, along with no evidence of the Little Mouse tracking Klein being disloyal, we've obtained information confirming the connection between the Secret Order and the fallen nobility of the Solomon Empire."
"Moreover, I've just received word that there might be leads concerning the Antigonus family's notes within the Secret Order. I've dispatched the Little Mouse to inquire, and there might be results soon."
"I hope so!" Lin Ruo smiled, yet in his mind, he rapidly assessed numerous possibilities. This deeper consideration led to a wider smile, a smile that was interrupted by the sound of footsteps.
Turning his gaze, Lin Ruo saw an elderly man bearing a silver box adorned with intricate patterns. While Lin Ruo hadn't met him before, he recognized the man as Old Neil, summoned by Dunn to gather potion materials for Klein's divination.
A tragic figure who had a significant influence on Klein in the original story. Almost regarded as Klein's mentor, he tragically lost control and transformed into a monster due to his association with the Hidden Sage.
In the original narrative, Old Neil's demise was the event that first revealed the harshness of the Beyonder world to Klein.
"Captain!" Old Neil first nodded at Dunn, then turned his attention to Klein. He greeted, "Young man, good morning!" With that, he raised his free hand, tapping his forehead twice. His gaze shifted to Lin Ruo as he said, "Greetings. Captain mentioned you—a companion of young Klein! It's unexpected to meet the favored one of the Goddess one day!"
"Hello, Mr. Neil!" Lin Ruo responded with a smile. His next words, however, caused a subtle change in one individual's expression. "I'm unsure if you're pursuing knowledge or not, and I mean no offense, but in my humble opinion, Mr. Neil, you've drawn the Hidden Sages' attention. Continual absorption of that knowledge may lead to losing control."
Lin Ruo wasn't aiming to let Old Neil die. After all, he had no intention of using death to expose Klein to the harshness of the Beyonder world. Preventing Klein from becoming a sheltered individual was essential, yet pushing his growth through the demise of friends and family wasn't necessary.
While the world was indeed harsh, emphasizing its cruelty through the inexplicable death of innocents wasn't his aim.
Certainly, Lin Ruo couldn't guarantee Old Neil's rescue. The Hidden Sages' influence was beyond his current capability to contest. Nevertheless, he could identify the issue and provide Old Neil a chance at survival.
"What's the matter?" Dunn's eyes turned sharp and serious in an instant.
Klein also gazed at Old Neil, surprised. He knew Lin Ruo wouldn't speak without reason.
Unexpectedly, Old Neil, who had never expected Lin Ruo's sudden disclosure, faced the gaze of three individuals and finally spoke with a tinge of resentment, "I only want to bring her back... and, aside from that, I merely pursued a bit of knowledge. I assure you, it's not an issue!" His last sentence sounded like both an excuse and self-reassurance.
"However, from my perspective, you're teetering on the edge of losing control!" Lin Ruo spoke with equal seriousness, his gaze fixed on Old Neil. "Whether you believe it or not, if you continue down this path, in less than two months, your companions might be mourning at your grave."
This was a fact. Old Neil didn't live for much more than two months in the original story.
Old Neil's expression faltered. Though he was meeting Lin Ruo for the first time, as a devout follower of the Goddess, he wouldn't doubt the words of Lin Ruo, the favored one of the Goddess.
Lin Ruo shifted his gaze to Dunn, who now appeared serious and concerned. "It would be best to report his condition to higher authorities. They should have a solution. While I can't assure his salvation, allowing him to continue unchecked will certainly lead to a loss of control."
"I understand. I'll do so. Thank you, Your Excellency, for your warning," Dunn said. His tone carried not only respect based on the identity but also a genuine respect for Lin Ruo himself, filled with gratitude.
Dunn valued his team members deeply and didn't wish to witness Old Neil succumb to madness.
"No need for thanks. I merely did what was right," Lin Ruo replied nonchalantly.
Dunn's gaze returned to Old Neil. He stated, "Old Neil, for the time being, refrain from engaging with matters of the Beyonder world, let alone actively pursuing knowledge. Wait until we receive a message from the church's headquarters... Simultaneously, I'll arrange for Leonard and others to take turns accompanying you. Please understand."
"I understand... I know what to do." Old Neil lowered his head, appearing somewhat disheartened. He did not contest Dunn's decision, though he seemed to have more on his mind.
He then recalled something, raising the box he held. "Captain, would you object if I concoct a potion for young Klein before departing?"