12 O’Clock Marionette

“Haha. You’ve grown up and become quite arrogant, Cruello.”

“Of course, I’m not asking for it for free.”

With a look of intrigue, the Second Elder took a deep drag from her pipe.@@novelbin@@

“The Grand Elder’s influence is growing within the sect. More and more of his people are taking positions—not because of their faith or abilities, but through mere connections.”

“Yes, unbelievers are now reaching for seats far beyond their worth.”

“I know you don’t approve. I’ll take care of it.”

The old woman stared at Cruello for a moment.

Her eyes seemed both pleased and displeased at once, their depths layered like the rings of an ancient tree—wrinkled irises stacking upon themselves with time, making her true emotions difficult to read.

However, in the end, the words that left her lips were exactly what Cruello had wanted.

“You’re right. I want to cleanse the Black Serpents completely.”

With a slow exhale, the Second Elder released a puff of smoke into the air.

“I heard that Qudil has recently disappeared. Ares, too, has not returned after his failure. Was that your doing?”

“Yes.”

“Was that part of your so-called ‘cleansing’ as well?”

“I simply took the key from the keychain.”

“You audacious thing.”

“They were both tied to the Grand Elder. Replacing them should be to your advantage, Second Elder.”

“You do have a way with words. Yes, the children indebted to me are preparing to take the next positions. It was beneficial to me.”

She placed her pipe back down onto the table.

“But that alone isn’t enough for me to hand over the key. The lives of a few minnows are far too cheap a price.”

“Then tell me what you want.”