Gun of Ashes

Selyu leaned against the door. With just a gentle push, she could open it. Behind the door was the reception room, and she could clearly hear Lorenzo and Oscar’s shouting and their conversation.

She wasn’t intentionally eavesdropping on their conversation, but their shouting was so loud that even the good soundproofing of the reception room couldn’t drown it out.

Selyu only felt a bit of a headache. She somewhat understood Arthur and the others’ worries. These people were all the vanguard in the darkness, on the frontlines of life and death.

This was an extremely important and great duty. According to reason, the successors of these duties should, in expectation, have a stern and silent face, clad in armor, holding cold weapons, carrying a heavy sense of solemnity.

But in reality, these people were more absurd than the next. If you were not aware beforehand, it’s really hard to associate these guys with these identities.

"Not going in?"

The old butler came to her side, noticing Selyu’s expression, and asked.

Selyu shook her head, slowly retreating to sit in another chair, seemingly lost in thought.

They were discussing the Nation-Builder, discussing Oscar’s creations, discussing tragedies and comedies, a jumbled mess of everything. If Selyu provided drinks for these two guys, they might soon start drinking heavily and drunkenly vomit all over the carpet.

In the books Selyu read before, there were also descriptions of such people, somewhat similar to what she imagined. They all had serious faces, always appearing fully armed whenever she saw them.

She always thought it was quite cool, but the more she interacted with these guys, the more Selyu understood that virtual literature is indeed virtual. Not everyone can maintain a high level of mental concentration. Even the most serious guys have funny sleeping postures.

They weren’t always fully armed. They just hid their vulnerable sides in unknown darkness.

"The contract is ready. Please both of you sign it. Oscar is about to retire, and you will become the new Nation-Builder."

A voice sounded, and a stranger approached, dressed in black and carrying a heavy briefcase that contained the contracts and vows of the Nation-Builders.

Anakin, Queen Victoria’s subordinate, appeared with an unpleasant fake smile wherever the queen needed him.

"Just a moment, this isn’t a light decision. I want to... take a little break first."

Selyu said softly, showing a tired expression.

"Alright."

Anakin bowed to Selyu, then handed the briefcase to the old butler.

"Sign it, and then just hand it to me. I’ll be waiting outside."

He smiled, his slightly pale face appearing quite eerie, and then turned to leave, giving Selyu her private space.

The old butler placed the briefcase on the table next to him, unlatched it, and opened the heavy case. Inside were a series of contracts, one after another, bearing various signatures, including that of Queen Victoria.

Contrary to what Lorenzo was told, the succession of the Nation-Builders had actually begun half a month ago. For Selyu to join this secret society, it wasn’t just a matter of Oscar stepping aside; it also required the consent of the other members.

Everything went smoothly. Selyu met their requirements, not only having Oscar’s relinquishment but also Queen Victoria’s strong recommendation. Combined with the immense power of the Stuart group, they accepted Selyu’s addition.

A brand new door opened for the Stuart family. Although she had just become a duke not long ago, in the words of the old butler, Selyu had already elevated the glory of the Stuart family to its peak.

She was no longer just a duke of a country but had become a member influencing the world’s course.

Selyu’s status was further solidified, and her name would leave a deep mark in the family’s history.

But she didn’t seem very happy.

"You will make the glory of the Stuart family endure. The family has now reached its most prosperous moment."

The old butler whispered.

"Are you not happy?"

Selyu shook her head, showing a helpless smile, and said to the old butler.

"There are gains, and there are losses."

She took a deep breath and stood, placing her hand on the heavy contract.

"Sign it, and Stuart will gain power but should also bear obligations... This isn’t a light matter. It will deeply embed into the blood oath of the Stuart family and perpetuate with its name."

Selyu had personally stepped into Hell, witnessing firsthand the rise of Hell in the cold and desolate world, and also witnessing the brilliance of humanity. They intertwined with each other, finally returning to a long silence.

She was very clear on what would happen once she signed it. She would bind the Stuart family closely to a fate of darkness.

"At least it’s great. There’s nothing wrong with being a defender, even if it’s doomed to destruction."

The old butler encouraged Selyu. It was a rare opportunity, even if it was so heavy.

He had also seen the abomination of the Demon. With the cooperation of the Stuart family and the Purification Mechanism, he learned of more malevolent things. The old butler had once been afraid, but seeing this city born between machinery and steam, he felt it was all worth it.

"Is that so... but what if I did all of this not out of some great ideal?"

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