Ch. 3281..3290
Chapter 3281 Gerton Of The Ecclesiastic Order
Gerton was a unique exchange in the Ecclesiastic Order where resources, divine tools, and even information were traded.
At that point, the news of the Three Sages getting injured had already been sold many times in Gerton, meaning that many were aware of the sages’ situation and were starting to get ideas.
North Pavilion was in an unprecedented crisis, yet the leader of the faction was still oblivious to their situation.
As soon as the other factions confirmed that the Three Sages were severely injured, they would pounce on North Pavilion like a predator.
Meanwhile, Gloria could not wait to get her hands on Forlevia’s self-created technique.
Initially, she wanted to hand Floyd the list of Bonemasters for Levi only after Sonja had done so, but she did not have the patience for it.
Hence, Gloria decided to take the risk and hand Floyd the list early, giving the man a pleasant surprise.
“I did everything in my power, and this is all that I could find. I have tried my best,” explained Gloria helplessly.
Naturally, she only gave Floyd part of the list and let Sonja and the others submit the rest.
Even if they could not gather the names, Gloria planned to sneak the information to them since her plan required Levi to find all the Bonemasters.
Gloria needed Levi to find the culprit who stole Azure Dragon’s and the others’ spiritual bones and deal with them in order for her plan to work.
The woman was covered in dirt when she offered the list to Floyd.
“Thank you for what you’ve done. I can see how much you’ve worked for this.” Appreciative of what Gloria had done, Floyd held her hand tightly.
In response, Gloria shook her head. “It’s nothing. The sooner we get this to your master, the sooner we can make up for our mistake. I just wish that I could’ve done more to help.”
“It’s fine. I’m sure Sonja and the others will find the rest.”
“Okay. You have to remember not to doubt your master when you see him later. I believe what he told you was the truth. Evie probably did create a new technique that’s different from the Art of Consumption,” reminded Gloria.
Although it sounded like the woman simply wanted to remind Floyd of his place, that was not her true intention. What Gloria really wanted was to remind the man to ask for Forlevia’s technique.
“Don’t worry about it. I trust Master as much as I trust you,” assured Floyd, who had already thought of how to approach Forlevia despite what he said.
When Gloria saw the look in Floyd’s eyes, she knew that she had reached her goal. After all, that was not her first rodeo.
The woman was the one who doubted Levi at first but then became the complete opposite when she advised Floyd to trust his master.
Not long after that, Floyd met up with Levi.
“Master, I did my best but could only find three. The rest will be up to Sonja and the others,” stated Floyd before handing the list to Levi.
“Well done, Floyd! I didn’t expect you to be back so soon with another three. I knew I could rely on you!” praised Levi. “You’ve done enough. It’s time for you to get some rest. You’ve earned it!”
“Master, I’d like to pay Azure Dragon and the others a visit.”
Chapter 3282 Getting The Technique Created By Forlevia
“Master, I…” Floyd seemed like he wanted to say something but stopped mid-sentence.
“What’s wrong?” Levi looked curiously at Floyd.
There were some questions Floyd wanted to ask Levi, but he changed his mind when he remembered Gloria’s reminder.
“It’s nothing. Let’s go see how they’re doing.” With that, Floyd went to visit Azure Dragon and the others and saw that they were well taken care of.
They had recovered so much that they were already trying to move their bodies.
However, it was not easy since having one’s spiritual bone removed was like having their martial prowess stripped from them.
Floyd was relieved to see how fast Azure Dragon and the others had recovered. Being able to produce a list of Bonemasters for Levi also helped in removing his sense of guilt.
Floyd did not visit the men with empty hands but brought them all kinds of elixirs to speed up their recovery.
The supplements were all prepared by Gloria with magical herbs available in the Ecclesiastic Order.
Taking the elixirs was much more effective than just taking the magical herbs without the extra process.
After leaving Azure Dragons and the others, Floyd was ready to look for Forlevia, who happened to be cultivating in an open space.
“Floyd, you’re here!” Forlevia was excited to see the man.
“My, my! You sure have grown stronger, Evie!” exclaimed Floyd after sizing the girl up.
“Stop it!” Blushing, Forlevia chuckled embarrassedly in response.
Then, Floyd froze like a statue since he was unsure how to make the request.
“What’s wrong, Floyd?” inquired Forlevia curiously when she noticed the man’s strange behavior.
“I…” Suddenly, Floyd found it difficult to speak.
“It’s okay. You know you can tell me anything, right?”
After taking a moment to summon his courage, Floyd finally opened up. “Okay. I’m going to be frank with you, Evie. I’m interested in your self-created technique, and I was wondering if you could show me?”
Floyd was relieved when he finally blurted out his intention.
“I just need you to teach me a part of it. You don’t have to teach me the whole thing,” added Floyd to avoid suspicion.
“Is that it? Of course, I can teach you! In fact, I’m going to teach the whole thing. After all, we’re family, right? Dad always told me how diligent you are when it comes to studying techniques, so if my technique can help to make you more powerful, I’d be more than happy to teach you,” responded Forlevia with a smile.
“Right…” Floyd did not expect Forlevia to say something like that and was somewhat embarrassed by it.
After that, Forlevia proceeded to teach Floyd her technique and even gave the man some pointers so that it would be easier for him to cultivate it.
Floyd was utterly surprised when Forlevia held nothing back from him, for he thought she would keep the powerful technique all to herself instead of sharing it with anybody.
The girl even told him the best way to cultivate the move since she only wanted him to become more powerful with it as soon as possible.
All of sudden, Floyd was stricken with guilt.
He knew, at that moment, that he should not have doubted Levi or taken advantage of Forlevia.
However, it was already too late because Forlevia had already finished teaching him her technique.
“There you go, Floyd! Don’t hesitate to ask me if you have any questions.” Smiling innocently at Floyd, Forlevia believed that the man she called family would put her technique to good use.
Since she knew that Floyd was an enthusiast, Forlevia did not hesitate to pass him her self-created technique at all.
The girl thought Floyd simply needed it to strengthen himself further and was embarrassed to ask her for it just then.
“Hey, Evie. Do you think-”
“I promise I won’t tell Dad or anyone,” interrupted Forlevia before Floyd could even finish his sentence.
The girl assumed Floyd wanted to keep the matter from her father and others because it concerned his pride.
Chapter 3283 We Are All Family
In actual fact, other than that, Floyd was worried that his master and the others might get suspicious.
It would be a bad idea for him to expose Gloria too early as it might even cause more problems.
He had no intention to let his master and the rest think that Gloria had incited him to steal Forlevia’s self-created technique.
That was his main fear.
Then again, when Forlevia said that, he was more at ease.
He was smart enough to know that Forlevia had misunderstood him.
This is even better.
There was no way Forlevia would tell anybody about it!
Therefore, none of them would know that Floyd had already obtained the full set of Forlevia’s self-created technique.
He had come to a deserted area to practice the technique and see if it was the same as the Art of Consumption.
In the beginning, it was exactly like the Art of Consumption.
However, as his practice went on, he knew that something was amiss.
In the Art of Consumption, one needed to be able to channel the energy around oneself, and lots of spiritual energy was required for that.
In the technique that Forlevia created, it seemed that the elements could be utilized to achieve control of the energy around him.
It was exactly as what his master had said!
The basic principle was the same, but Forlevia’s technique was one level up.
Was my suspicion wrong?
Then again, he was not too sure.
After all, he had only just started. It was as if he had only started to cultivate.
In a short period of time, it was impossible for him to attain the higher realm of Forlevia’s technique.
He was still trying to grasp the true essence of the technique, so he was not sure.
What should I do then?
That’s right!
I’m going to look for Gloria!
Not only is she powerful, but she is also very knowledgeable.
She’s the one who has taught me the Art of Consumption.
At the thought of that, Floyd left that place immediately.
Even when Levi saw how capable he was, Levi would never question him.
He had the least concern about Floyd among everyone there.
Floyd quickly found Gloria, and she was pleasantly surprised.
That’s fast.
She had thought that it was going to take her a long time before she got what she wanted.
That was quick and easy.
No wonder Floyd was so confident.
“Gloria! Forlevia has actually handed me the whole technique. I don’t believe it! Now, I feel that my suspicion has been wrong. Both Master and Forlevia won’t keep things for themselves. The moment I tried out her technique, I can feel a difference between her technique and the Art of Consumption! But, I can’t be sure! That’s why I have come here and let you take a look at it since you are really powerful and experienced. Perhaps, once you start to practice this technique, you will be able to find out what the issue is! Come! Let me pass Forlevia’s technique to you!”
After that, Floyd was about to hand the technique over to Gloria.
There was no hesitation on his part because he considered her as one of them.
That was why he would not hold back.
However, Gloria was the one who interrupted him and said with hesitation, “Are you sure that’s a good idea? Forlevia has given it to you, but it doesn’t mean you can pass it on to other people! No! No way!”
Yet, that only made Floyd even more assured of her righteousness.
She has always been thinking for me.
How can someone like this have bad intention?
Impossible!
I can say for myself that I may have evil intentions but not her!
If she really wants the technique, she won’t have stopped me.
The more Gloria prevented him from doing so, the more sure Floyd felt that he could pass the technique to her.
However, he had no idea that it was one of her tactics.
It was a no-brainer, but there was no way Floyd would be able to notice that now.
“Haha! Gloria, you really think of everything! If it’s someone else, I wouldn’t have taught them! But, you are with me! Forlevia is very nice, and there’s nothing wrong if I hand it to you!” exclaimed Floyd excitedly.
Gloria’s eyes glinted, and she tried very hard to suppress the excitement within her. Instead, she smiled and said, “That’s true! In the future, we are all one family! There’s nothing to hide from one another. I’ll be willing to share what I have learned with all of you too!”
“All right then. No more hesitation! I’ll show you!” urged Floyd.
Chapter 3284 The Most Powerful In The Ecclesiastic Order
Gloria still appeared hesitant about it. “No matter what my intentions are, I’ll still feel guilty if I master Forlevia’s technique. When I see her the next time, I’ll give her a huge present!”
“That sounds great!”
Floyd nodded in agreement and began to pass Forlevia’s technique to Gloria.
Forlevia held nothing back from Floyd, and he did the same with Gloria.
He taught Gloria all of the critical points and even gave her some essential tips.
Gloria was astonished to accept the technique.
This is completely different!
Is this for real?
This is beyond my imagination!
Oh God!
This is too magical!
That was how she felt when she was learning the technique.
She was so experienced and had cultivated several forms of the Art of Consumption.
Because of her mastery of various tactics, there were many men from different factions who were under her control. As such, she had access to and knowledge of the various techniques.
She was well-versed in countless forms and levels of the Art of Consumption.
However, she was still taken aback by the technique of Forlevia.
The moment she accepted the technique, she understood instantly.
That was nothing like the Art of Consumption.
This is so much deeper!
It was exactly like what Levi had said.
One could continue to cultivate even without the presence of spiritual energy.
They could utilize the elements to strengthen themselves.
If spiritual energy was available, she would be able to absorb Forlevia’s technique many times faster than the other forms of the Art of Consumption.
What a treasure!
There was a vicious gleam in Gloria’s eyes.
Once Floyd was done passing her the technique, she let out a long exhalation.
Finally!
I have finally obtained the ultimate technique that can overthrow the entire Ecclesiastic Order!
There were quite a number of the Art of Consumption at the celestial level, but she only came into contact with a few.
She had yet to get ahold of the most powerful forms of the Art of Consumption from Masters of the Five Pavilions or their backer, the Three Sages.
However, she would not need them anymore.
Now that she had Forlevia’s technique, she had no more use for the celestial-level Art of Consumption.
Isn’t this technique even more powerful?
If she was able to master Forlevia’s technique to perfection, she would certainly have a place in the Ecclesiastic Order in the future.
In addition, if she could get her hands on Forlevia’s or Levi’s spiritual bone and transfer it to her body, she might actually become the most powerful person in the entire Ecclesiastic Order!
Trying her best to contain her excitement, she began to follow Floyd’s instructions and practice the technique.
That made her more and more excited.
This is wonderful!
It was as though she had become one with the universe, and there was an inexplicable connection to all the elements around her.
There was something natural about it.
It was also the greatest difference between Forlevia’s technique and the Art of Consumption.
The foundation of the Art of Consumption was to control the energy around oneself, and in order to attain the highest level, one would require help from the universe.
That theory was the same with Forlevia’s technique.
Both techniques relied on the power of the universe.
However, Gloria discovered the difference.
Even in the highest levels of the Art of Consumption and the magical techniques of the Esoteric Guild, the cultivators required the help of the universe.
Remember!
No matter what, it’s only help!
On the other hand, Forlevia’s technique did not require help from the universe. Gloria could utilize the power of the universe directly because she had already become one with the world.
It gave her the sensation that she was in perfect harmony with the world.
The power of the universe belonged to her now.
Gloria no longer had to only borrow the power.
That was the greatest difference!
Now, she finally understood what Levi had been talking about when he said that the upper limit of Forlevia’s technique was higher.
That was the reason.
It was very profound to cultivate Forlevia’s technique.
Gloria was completely immersed in it.
Moreover, the elements around her were dictated by her.
Floyd was shocked!
He could not believe that Gloria was so talented that she had mastered it so quickly.
I’m nothing compared to her!
After practicing for half a day, I have yet to achieve any effect.
Chapter 3285 She Wants More
As Gloria wasn’t just someone extremely experienced, she was also a top-tier genius.
Therefore, she made swift progress once she began training.
Crack!
She was suddenly awakened by the loud rumble of thunder.
When she saw the look of surprise on Floyd’s face, she began to panic.
Nevertheless, she had a way to make herself vomit blood.
When her face lost all color, Floyd was given a shock.
“Gloria, what’s wrong? Are you all right? Don’t scare me!”
Filled with anxiousness, Floyd’s voice trembled as he spoke.
Gloria shook her head. “I’m fine!”
“What happened to you?” He was worried sick.
Gloria explained at once. “I’m sorry. It’s just that Forlevia’s self-created technique is just so mysterious that I was engulfed in it. In fact, if one isn’t strong or talented enough to train in the technique, one would easily go crazy. That was what almost happened to me just now! Thus, I’m not going to train in it anymore. Given my capabilities, this technique is way beyond my reach. I would end up going crazy and die from having all my nerves broken. What I experienced just now was just a warning!” Gloria explained while coughing out blood.
She had pretended to almost lose her senses in front of Floyd so that he would assume she was incapable of practicing Forlevia’s technique.
Therefore, in the event someone else noticed her training in the said technique, Floyd would be able to refute the fact on her behalf.
He would tell them that it was impossible for her to train in that technique due to her lack of talent and weak foundation. In addition, she would lose her mind if she did. He could also claim to have witnessed her throwing up blood during training. Consequently, there was no way she could make that technique her own.
Evidently, Gloria was extremely shrewd. Her plot was so comprehensive that it took into account all the possible scenarios that might occur.
At the same time, she removed all doubt Floyd had of her. By doing so, he no longer had to worry about handing Forlevia’s technique to her.
“Nonetheless, I was able to scratch the surface of the technique. You were wrong about Master, for he was right all along! There’s a difference between the technique Forlevia created and the Art of Consumption. It’s more mysterious and difficult to master. On top of that, its power can reach greater heights too. Therefore, it’s more suited to those who are extremely powerful and talented.
“As for me, I could barely manage with high-level Art of Consumptions. Hence, I would be way over my head to train in Forlevia’s technique,” Gloria explained.
While dispelling Floyd’s doubts, Gloria managed to disconnect herself from being linked to training in Forlevia’s technique.
“I understand! I have failed Master. I shouldn’t have doubted him in the first place.” Floyd was filled with remorse.
“However, you shouldn’t apologize to him. Fortunately, no one knows about the matter, so we can just pretend as if nothing had happened,” Gloria instructed.
Believing in Gloria’s every word, Floyd nodded obediently.
She added on purpose, “Also, you have to keep Forlevia’s self-created technique a secret, and are not allowed to tell anyone else. Or else, you will bring a great calamity upon her.”
She is so thoughtful!
Extremely touched, Floyd broke into a smile.
Gloria had gradually amalgamated herself into his family and began to think on everyone’s behalf.
“In spite of that, her special technique would be exposed sooner or later. When the time comes, you have to be on your guard! This will undoubtedly intensify the pressure on your master. Therefore, we must share his burden with him.”
As Gloria had considered the matter in a comprehensive manner, Floyd felt proud and delighted over it.
She’s the perfect partner who can help me with everything.
In the meantime, Gloria wasn’t in a hurry to get Floyd to check on Levi and Forlevia’s spiritual bone, for doing so would obviously make her look desperate.
Furthermore, obtaining Forlevia’s mystical technique was no different than getting her hands on the legendary spiritual bones.
Consequently, she was extremely satisfied at the moment.
However, that satisfaction wasn’t going to last long, as she was still aiming to obtain Forlevia’s spiritual bone.
Chapter 3286 Tracking The Bonemasters Down
After sending Floyd away, Gloria couldn’t wait to find a secluded spot to start training.
She had made swift progress, as Forlevia’s specific instructions and guidance were like the wind behind her sails.
When Floyd returned to the main base, he ran into Forlevia.
“Floyd, are you still training in the technique that I created?” she asked.
Floyd recalled the scene where Gloria went berserk and threw up blood.
If someone of Gloria’s caliber has failed to do so, I would certainly not make it.
He shook his head at once. “I can’t. Your technique doesn’t suit me at all. Thus, it’s better that I don’t train in it.”
A few days later, Sonja and the others didn’t disappoint in their task, as they had finally gathered the list of all the Bonemasters.
Obviously, they couldn’t have done so without Gloria’s assistance from the shadows.
She had left behind traces of the list for Sonja to find.
Levi’s eyes lit up when he finally saw the complete list of Bonemasters.
He followed up by ordering all of them to be targeted.
Previously, he had already had his men keep an eye on the Bonemasters identified earlier as they waited for the opportunity to round them all up.
Finally, the complete list of Bonemasters was in his hands.
“We will start our operation now. Once we enter the Ecclesiastic Order’s compound, we will still need your help.”
Levi ordered Sonja and the others to stay behind where they can still be of great use.
As the operation began, Levi set out personally to capture them.
With the details provided by the Bonemaster list and Sonja’s help, those people had nowhere to hide.
One by one, all of them were brought back.
Levi didn’t interrogate them, for he wanted to capture all of them first.
As a result, Levi and his men covered every single corner and seized all the Bonemasters from their hideouts.
Soon, almost all of them were captured except for ten.
Even though Levi was in possession of their detailed information and knew the location of their hideouts, he didn’t manage to find them at all.
The turn of events worried him.
Can the ten Bonemasters be the perpetrators? It’s highly suspicious that we’re unable to find them.
Sonja and the others began to panic.
What’s going on? Why can’t we find them?
Even Gloria, who was observing everything from the shadows, became nervous.
She had hoped that Levi would be able to find all the Bonemasters, and ideally the perpetrators, for it would be a beneficial development for her.
Therefore, when the last ten Bonemasters couldn’t be found, she began to panic and decided to take action.
If Levi and his men can’t find them, I will have to do it myself.
With that, Gloria ordered all the factions under her control to help with the search.
Meanwhile, Levi, together with Sonja and the others, was still unable to find the ten regardless of how hard they tried.
Obviously, Levi was hard-pressed due to the fact that he was unfamiliar with the Ecclesiastic Order.
As for Sonja and her men, they were evidently not as well-connected as everyone assumed.
Given the uncertainty that descended upon the matter, the entire situation turned awkward.
All this while, Floyd wanted to bring up the idea of getting Gloria involved in the search.
However, he decided against it after a slight deliberation.
Nevertheless, Gloria proved herself to be resourceful when she did manage to locate the rest of the Bonemasters.
This time, she didn’t share the information with Floyd, as it would blow her cover.
All the effort she had put in previously would have been for naught, and Levi would definitely not forgive her.
Consequently, she chose to guide Levi’s subordinates instead, especially Sonja. Given that the latter was part of the Ecclesiastic Order, it wouldn’t come as a surprise if they were the ones who found the Bonemasters in the end.
Also, Gloria didn’t dare guide Levi directly, as she was traumatized by him.
In fact, the entire Ecclesiastic Order was fearful of him too.
Even though Levi’s reach had extended into the realms of the Ecclesiastic Order, no one dared to get involved.
The reason was simple. They were terrified of him.
Since getting in his way was the equivalent of death, no one dared to take the risk at all.
Finally, Gloria guided Sonja to the location where more than ten Bonemasters were gathered.
“What? They’re…”
Chapter 3287 A Smarter Monkey
When everyone arrived at the scene, they were shocked by the sight that greeted them.
Staring at more than ten corpses in front of them, everyone was filled with disbelief.
There’s nothing else here except for the bodies! Are they really the remaining Bonemasters?
Luckily, the corpses had yet to rot away entirely.
Indeed, Gloria had found the Bonemaster’s location earlier.
When she first saw them, she too was taken aback to see all of them dead.
In spite of that, she still lead Levi and the others to the location.
“Identify the bodies!”
Levi’s subordinates did as they were told.
After a painstaking process, they finally confirmed that the bodies belonged to the remaining Bonemasters they were searching for.
As a result, everyone was stunned to learn of the Bonemasters’ deaths.
Boom!
The revelation came as bad news to Levi.
The fact that they were all dead clearly indicated that they were the Bonemasters responsible for extracting the spiritual bones from Azure Dragon and his comrades.
Evidently, the mastermind killed them in an attempt to destroy all evidence.
In other words, everything Levi and his subordinates did, including painstakingly compiling the list of Bonemasters, had been in vain.
Previously, the possibility of such a scenario had crossed Levi’s mind. He, too, would have destroyed all traces of evidence, including killing the Bonemasters, if he were the mastermind.
That way, no one would be able to trace the matter back to him.
Nonetheless, there was also the possibility that the enemy was so strong that he feared no one at all.
However, the possibility of such a situation was low. If the enemy was truly powerful, they wouldn’t have needed to be so secretive.
On top of that, Sonja and the others from the Ecclesiastic Order had told Levi of the Bonemasters’ special status within the order.
Even though they were treated with scorn, killing them would just reduce their numbers.
After all, there were only so many of them in the first place.
From that perspective, the Bonemasters were of particular importance and highly regarded by many.
When no one had any use for them, they were no better than stray dogs.
However, when they were needed, they became more precious than one could ever imagine.
Therefore, the Ecclesiastic Order had one unspoken rule—Bonemasters should never be killed.
If one were to kill them, none of them would be willing to come forward and offer their skills anymore.
In fact, Sonja and the others had never heard of any Bonemaster being assassinated ever before.
Therefore, everyone was caught by surprise to see more than ten of them being massacred.
Meanwhile, Levi turned his attention toward Sonja and her companions, expecting an explanation from them.
In spite of that, the latter was shaken by the fact that more than ten Bonemasters were slaughtered.
This can’t be happening! Is there no regard for the consequences? What’s going on?
Boom!
However, everything seemed to make sense once Sonja and the others thought of who the culprit could be.
That group consisted of lunatics. They were ruthless in their methods and capable of anything.
Nonetheless, there were still questions about their involvement.
Based on their fearless demeanor, they would never kill the Bonemasters on purpose.
In fact, they would already be gloating over the fact that they had obtained the elemental spiritual bones.
That was how they always behaved.
However, why are they so afraid this time? Is it because they are scared of Levi? But that’s impossible, for they fear nothing. Given that the Ecclesiastic Order sees him as no more than a “smarter monkey,” that group would naturally be unfazed by Levi. Therefore, it’s unlikely that they would act in such a secretive manner. In that case, is there someone else behind the transplant of the spiritual bone? Or is there some other explanation for it? No matter what, there’s definitely something fishy going on behind the scenes.
Sonja and the others speculated in their minds.
Nevertheless, they were adamant in not revealing to Levi who it was.
After all, that faction was aware of how close they were to Levi, and if they found out that it was Sonja who gave them up, her fate would then be sealed.
Chapter 3288 Identification Parade
In fact, the entire North Pavilion might be doomed, as even the Three Sages were not strong enough to put up a fight.
Unknown to them, the Three Sages were already grievously injured.
Meanwhile, Levi was staring at them, waiting for an explanation. However, they didn’t dare reveal the suspects in their minds at all.
Sonja remarked in resignation, “It never crossed our mind that the Bonemasters would be killed. Perhaps, they are too fearful of your power! Until the perpetrator can successfully amalgamate the five elemental spiritual bones, he would definitely not reveal himself.”
Sonja was right. The first priority after completing the transplant of the legendary spiritual bones was to train with it instead of showing off.
Naturally, it made sense to make full use of their potential as soon as possible.
“Doesn’t this mean that we have run out of clues? How are we going to continue our search?” Levi furrowed his brows.
Sonja and the rest fell silent.
Isn’t the situation what it is? What’s the point of looking for more clues?
“There might be a possibility that this was just an accident, and these Bonemasters weren’t the ones who dissected Azure Dragon and his comrades. For all we know, It might even be other Bonemasters,” someone else suggested.
“In that case, bring all the Bonemasters to Azure Dragon, and let him and his comrades identify them. Given the current situation that’s the only choice we have,” Levi ordered.
Since they had reached a dead end, Levi had to start looking for clues from the victims.
“Mmm-hmm, that sounds like a good idea. Take all the corpses with us!”
Soon, the ten-odd corpses were brought away.
At the same time, Levi led the tens of other Bonemasters back to their base so that Azure Dragon could identify them.
Previously, Levi never brought the matter up, as he was worried that it would affect their recovery from the traumatic experience.
Every time the incident was mentioned, Azure Dragon and his comrades would go berserk.
Therefore, Levi never talked about the Bonemasters or the perpetrator.
But now, he felt that the time was ripe to discuss it as Azure Dragon and the other four were close to full recovery.
After all, they had first-hand experience of the incident and would definitely know which of the Bonemasters were involved, and perhaps, even the mastermind.
Hopefully, they were able to provide some clues.
In fact, they could even get criminal profilers and professional artists to draw the mastermind’s face based on the memories of Azure Dragon and his men.
Furthermore, they could even use special techniques to help Azure Dragon and his men to recall all the details that happened back then.
These options never crossed the mind of the Ecclesiastic Order at all.
Soon, Levi met with Azure Dragon and the other four.
“Can we discuss the issue now?”
Just as Levi spoke, the group trembled when they realized what he meant.
As the few of them exchanged glances, their eyes flashed with conviction.
Now that they were almost physically and mentally recovered, it was time to settle some scores.
There was no way they could let what was done to them slide.
“We have captured all the Bonemasters that belong to the Ecclesiastic Order. You should come and identify if any of them were among those who dissected you,” Levi stated candidly.
Azure Dragon and the others nodded in agreement despite feeling a chill down their spine.
After all, they were still traumatized by the hellish torture back then.
One by one, the Bonemasters were led in for the identification parade.
Even though many among them were either crippled in the limbs, born ugly or had faces covered with scars, one could still tell them apart.
Azure Dragon and the others began to go through the parade.
No!
No!
…
Still no!
Despite going through tens of them, they didn’t see the culprits among the Bonemasters.
With their last hope snuffed out, everyone’s expression darkened.
In the beginning, they had hoped to find one of the perpetrators among the tens of Bonemasters.
Unfortunately, they were now filled with disappointment, for the Bonesmasters who were involved would likely come from the group of corpses.
Feeling helpless, they brought out the dead bodies to be identified.
Chapter 3289 Hypnosis
At the sight of the corpses, Azure Dragon and his group’s expressions drastically changed.
As their bodies began to tremble, horror descended upon their faces while the look in their eyes revealed only fear and pain.
Evidently, the ten-odd Bonemasters’ faces had been seared into their souls.
In fact, the Bonemasters had made such a strong impression in their subconscious minds that they had become the latter’s nightmare for the rest of their lives.
Every time they recalled or dreamt of the Bonemasters, they would inadvertently be gripped with pain.
Therefore, all of them became hysterical at the sight of the Bonemasters.
After all, the Bonemasters had dug out their spiritual bones in an extremely gruesome manner while they were still conscious.
As a result, the faces of the Bonemasters were carved into the minds of Azure Dragon and his comrades, to the extent that they could remember every single feature of the former.
Consequently, they lost control of themselves, contrary to Levi’s expectations.
He had assumed that they were strong enough to face it.
Nevertheless, their reaction proved that the dead Bonemasters were the ones responsible for dissecting Azure Dragon and his comrades.
Unfortunately, it meant that they had run out of clues too.
It wasn’t until the bodies were carried away that Azure Dragon and the others calmed down.
“Boss, we’re sorry for losing control,” Azure Dragon apologized in a self-deprecating tone.
Levi replied with a frown, “I’m the one who should be sorry, as I had played down the horror you have been through. I thought that you were able to bear with it.”
In truth, Levi had underestimated how badly they were traumatized.
It was precisely because the incident had turned into the stuff of nightmares for them that Levi’s urge for them to confront it intensified.
Otherwise, they would never be able to overcome their fears and would be significantly hampered in the future.
Even if they stopped their training in martial arts, it would still be a cruel impediment to them as normal human beings.
Due to that, they had to face their fears until they were able to talk about the matter with smiling faces and not be bothered at all.
“You will still need to confront your inner demons, as I don’t want them to take root. You still have a chance to do so now before it’s too late. Once it becomes part of your being, you won’t be able to do anything about it,” Levi advised in a solemn tone.
Upon hearing Levi’s words, the gravity of the matter dawned upon them, especially after the hysterical episode earlier.
After exchanging glances, the five of them nodded with conviction.
“Boss, you’re right. Just like how important revenge is, it’s also imperative that we dispose of our inner demons.”
Their eyes glistened resolutely.
“All right then. The path ahead will likely be difficult, but you must put up a strong front. Bear with it and conquer your fears. There is no room for failure!” Levi encouraged them.
Soon, Levi gathered a group of specialists that consisted of criminal profilers, artists, psychologists, etc.
Furthermore, a plethora of equipment was brought to where they were.
Azure Dragon and his companions were to go through psychotherapy. At the same time, they were to recount the incident in detail so that the perpetrator could be revealed.
This was one of Levi’s methods that the Ecclesiastic Order wasn’t aware of.
Just like a country bumpkin who had not been exposed to the world, Sonja was especially curious.
Do they think they can find the perpetrator this way? Impossible!
After all, the Ecclesiastic Order had been living in their own confines, sealed away from the rest of the world.
Therefore, they had no inkling of the wonders of modern technology.
Moreover, everything they had viewed with contempt was now brought to the forefront to do something the Art of Consumption wasn’t capable of.
Levi explained to them, “Today, I will broaden your horizons by showing you the face of the perpetrator!”
“Hmm? Show us the perpetrator’s face? How is that possible?”
Sonja and her companions didn’t believe Levi.
Even if the five of them could remember everything they saw, how is it possible to reveal the mastermind’s face?
Chapter 3290 The Worries Of Floyd
There’s no way they can produce an image of what’s in Azure Dragon’s mind.
Sonja had never heard of such a thing before.
This is unbelievable!
At that moment, the psychologist began making preparations for the psychotherapy session with Azure Dragon’s group.
“Get yourselves ready. We’re about to begin.”
Once everything was in place, the process started, which was going to be painful for the five victims.
Soon, all of them were hypnotized and began to recall the events of that fateful day, starting from the time they were still at Heavenly Base.
Their memories revealed how the Ecclesiastic Order came to see them and tested their spiritual bones.
Even though the five were already in pain, Levi knew that it was just the beginning. The real test would come toward the end.
Once they were brought under hypnosis, the five of them recollected the events from back then.
They were hooked up to some equipment that was able to convert the information they were sending into a format everyone else could refer to.
At the same time, a group began working on the information they received and converted everything in the five’s memories into images on a screen.
The images not only revealed the characters’ faces but also the clothes they were wearing and their surrounding environment.
Everything was clearly reconstructed.
While Levi looked on steadily, Sonja and her companions began to lose their calm.
“Oh my God! That’s the South Pavilion’s… and the West Pavilion’s…”
When she saw the characters on the screen, Sonja could recognize all of them at once, for they were members of the Ecclesiastic Order.
As they were certain Levi had never met or seen those figures before, they were astounded by how accurately the figures had been depicted.
Is this a “divine tool” of the mundane world? Looks like we have underestimated it. There is something to learn from it still.
Given the eye-opening experience, all of them were so awestruck that they looked like country bumpkins.
Consequently, Sonja and her group felt embarrassed by their reaction when everyone else started to give them a strange look.
She explained at once, “I know all of them. They’re from the Ecclesiastic Order.”
“Mmm-hmm. That’s good to know. Continue!” Levi instructed.
Sonja felt as if her mind was blown.
At the rate Levi was going, the mastermind would be revealed really soon.
Holding that thought, she couldn’t help but feel a chill down her spine.
Even though reconstructing memories was a laborious process, it was proceeding swiftly by industry standards.
After all, Levi had gathered all the specialists from within the field.
As the pain Azure Dragon and the other four felt gradually intensified, more details of their memories were revealed.
Most importantly, it included all the details of where they had been and who they met.
In fact, Sonja was shocked to see their own images appear on the screen.
During that period, everyone that Azure Dragon encountered was shown.
As many members of the Ecclesiastic Order met with them, everyone was naturally a suspect.
Theoretically, even Sonja and her men were considered so, causing Levi’s expression to darken.
This isn’t making the search any easier.
In the meantime, Floyd began to feel unsettled.
He was worried that Gloria was also among those who met Azure Dragon to test the latter’s spiritual bone.
If that were to happen, she would become a suspect in Levi’s eyes even if she wasn’t the culprit, as anyone who appears on the screen is likely to have designs on the spiritual bones.”
As a result, he began to feel fearful, for how was he going to bring Gloria to see Levi in the future.
If she were to appear on screen, everyone would grow wary of her.
Therefore, Floyd’s concerns increased as they got closer to the end.
After all, he wasn’t actually sure if Gloria had met with Azure Dragon before.