This is really not mechanical ascension

671: Chapter 350 The Origin of the Terrax Stone_2 671: Chapter 350 The Origin of the Terrax Stone_2 Albert remained silent.

The reason Duke Bloodthorn had come here was to avoid the spotlight.

Plans seldom keep pace with changes.

The death of Reina, despite being tied to the outbreak of the Forging Hammer Divine Craftsman’s matter, did not stir the level of public uproar Nicholas had anticipated to force the Star Origin Empire to quickly find the culprit, granting the Empire time for a slow and thorough investigation instead.

Meanwhile, Duke Guya, who had yet to fully recover, was clearly enraged and demanded the Empire investigate the matter thoroughly.

Additionally, he did not believe Azure Dragon was the culprit.

Duke Bloodthorn noticed the undercurrents and the veiled accusations aimed at him.

With no choice left, he had to come here under his grandfather, Prince Ryan’s arrangements.

Of course, he wasn’t merely here to hide; officially, he was offering strategic decision-making support.

Li Ming remained the only plausible choice that interested the Dominion Holy Image, and internally within the Empire, the only one with indirect ties to Li Ming was Nicholas.

Albert’s thoughts were racing; he, too, felt the urgency—after all, he was the one who committed the murder.

“Azure Dragon…” Nicholas’s expression shifted.

“With such a massive temptation right before his eyes, you think he wouldn’t come?”

The sinking cost had grown colossal, even leading him to kill Reina, making retreat impossible.

He must eliminate Azure Dragon.

This time is a perfect opportunity.

……

“…Yes, Lord, it was always Lord Azure Dragon who contacted us; we cannot reach him ourselves,” Ulrich nodded faintly, his figure seeming illusory.

“I see,” Austin sighed and waved his hand.