CLEAVER OF SIN Chapter 684: Associated With The Devil

Asher, who had been listening in, commented, "Seems like a chill, nice guy. I’m surprised he didn’t follow you both here to try to meet me," his gaze drifting towards the direction of his door as if anticipating another arrival.

It wasn't that Asher considered himself some sort of celebrity or a prominent figure. He was simply making a straightforward observation. After all, perhaps people might desire friendship with any Wargrave. In a team where two individuals were already acquainted with a Wargrave and were heading to visit them, the occasion would naturally present an opportunity to join their party and visit by association, making such a development almost inevitable under certain conditions.

'Besides, on Earth, the name Lucifer Morningstar is linked to the devil,' Asher mused inwardly, giving a slight shake of his head. Though he had held a belief in God during his previous existence, he wasn't particularly religious. It wasn't as though he would suddenly deem a random individual connected to demons solely based on their name; that would be both illogical and uncalled for.

"He is indeed a chill guy, but he prefers to keep to himself and doesn't really talk much," William explained composedly, his voice steady as he provided a brief yet accurate assessment.

"Well, enough about Lucifer. Tell us about your own mission. I'm sure you had something far more exciting, perilous, and adrenaline-inducing," Finch chimed in, his eyes sparkling with keen interest, clearly eager for a thrilling account.

Asher remained quiet for a moment, as if contemplating whether to divulge the full extent of the mission details. After all, based on his assessment, the mission involving Debro seemed intended for third-year students, though he couldn't be entirely sure. Finch and William appeared considerably less experienced for such a challenging level at present, making it somewhat inappropriate to reveal everything in complete detail.

"Well... nothing truly riveting. But I should caution you both to take the stealth and assassination class more seriously. Starting from the second year, the Logistics and Missions Operation Hall ceases providing compasses, and you'll need to manually navigate to your destinations," Asher advised, offering guidance that would genuinely benefit them. Many students, he noted, barely paid attention in the stealth and assassination class, content with merely passing, as if the knowledge imparted was not essential.

William and Finch simply nodded, remaining silent, evidently expecting more information about the mission rather than advice concerning compasses, their curiosity not yet fully satisfied.

Asher, perceiving their continued interest, merely sighed and began to recount the events. He framed the mission as originally described: a straightforward kidnapping case where he had located both the perpetrator and the victim. He deliberately omitted the horrors he had witnessed, the true vastness of the organization's scale, and the intensity of his confrontation with Debro. He did mention his battle with Debro, but only in an understated manner, and even then, he explained it in such a way that if either of them were to undertake that mission, they would undoubtedly perish.

"Damn, you must have had a really tough time. That mission sounds harder than anything you've handled before," William remarked. He didn't bother asking Asher if he was alright, as he was already certain of his well-being.

"The difficulty level is insane," Finch added, shaking his head and leaning back in his seat with a soft exhalation.

"Hearing about your mission, I'm almost glad I didn't accompany you. I probably would have met my end a hundred times over," William stated with a sigh, mentally acknowledging that he was still a considerable distance from achieving such a level of power.

Asher offered a slight smile. "How about I join you guys on a mission this time?" he proposed, already anticipating their likely acceptance of his offer without much hesitation.

"Huh, why?" Finch inquired. While pleased at the prospect of Asher rejoining their group, even temporarily, he still sought to understand the reasoning behind the suggestion.

"Well, my mission was quite overwhelming, so I've decided to take things easy with you all. Since you're both heading out on missions, I might as well tag along," Asher replied truthfully, seeing no need for any pretense.

His words caused William and Finch to fall into complete silence for a moment. The quiet lingered briefly before William finally spoke.

"I certainly don't know whether to be glad you're joining us or annoyed that you're treating missions at our level like some laid-back, stress-relieving vacation," William vocalized, each moment spent with Asher reinforcing the idea that despite his ability to copy, he could never truly measure up to the formidable individual before him.

"It’s best not to dwell on it," Finch advised, a smile gracing his features as he shook his head. "But regardless, it's great to have you back."

"So, we're a group of four now, are we?" William remarked, a hint of excitement coloring his tone.

"No need for concern regarding points; I won’t be taking any share. I’m the one imposing myself where I’m not strictly needed," Asher stated. Though he required points, he would never deceit his friends out of theirs.

"We ought to tackle the most challenging missions this time, seeing as we have the strongest among us," Finch immediately proposed, his enthusiasm palpable.

Asher remained quiet, observing Finch and William as they had already commenced their planning for the missions, their spirits high and uninhibited.

"You know, when you two arrived, I assumed you were also here because of the circulating rumors," Asher mentioned casually.

Finch and William paused their conversation momentarily. Then, William finally responded, "We are quite certain the rumors hold truth. Besides, you're still present, which signifies that everything is stable with the Wargraves, and similarly, all is well within our own territories and families, given that you never once brought up any issues regarding them."

"Well... that’s accurate," Asher conceded, grasping the implication behind their words. Neither Finch nor William delved into the intricate details concerning the Empire's war; they were not part of the Imperial family nor any Ducal lineage, but simply the offspring of Barons, nothing more.

With that, the circle of friends, who had been apart for over a month, resumed their discussion. Laughter filled the air as they playfully jested with one another, recounting the happenings in their individual lives. Despite all residing within the Star Academy, their bond remained naturally strong and unbroken.

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