Realm of Myths and Legends Chapter 1300: A Live Will of Fortune, Eye of Insight

"To employ the life of an innocent child—how utterly detestable," Hyrell declared, a grimace etched onto his face.

"You speak the truth. Certain boundaries must never be breached. It appears the Golden Dragon Association is riddled with a deep-seated corruption that demands eradication," Izroth proclaimed, his voice firm.

Vexpela remained in thoughtful silence. Her upbringing was marked by the stark contrast between her own solitary existence and the attentive care her numerous siblings received from their mothers. Each observation of such affection invariably stirred within her a potent cocktail of envy and sorrow.

However, now that the grim reality behind her mother's demise had been revealed, Vexpela found those resurfacing childhood memories twisting her insides into knots, filling her with palpable disgust.

How could they celebrate and laugh with such unbridled joy after stealing her mother away? How could they look down upon her for lacking maternal support, when they themselves were the architects of that very absence? The more these agonizing thoughts churned within Vexpela's mind, the more she felt her entire world was nothing but an elaborate sham.

"Your mother was far from foolish. She foresaw that her life was being targeted. Seeking me out was merely a contingency, a safeguard, for she was no naive soul to be ensnared by such a transparent trap. Initially, I possessed no concrete proof. Yet, after dedicating several years to diligent investigation, I finally unearthed the truth. I understand that rectifying the past is an impossible feat. My sole aspiration is to depart this world without any lingering regrets," Dagraen articulated, extending his open palm.

In the ensuing moment, the ring adorning his finger pulsed with a soft, white luminescence, and a diminutive, purple crystal materialized in his grasp.

"...I deeply regret the sequence of events that transpired back then. Even in the slightest measure, I yearn to atone for my past complacency. My life is drawing to a close, succumbing to an incurable ailment that has plagued my family for generations. I always considered myself fortunate to have lived such an extended lifespan, but it seems one can never truly escape the consequences of their karma. Before that inevitable moment arrives, in addition to this final piece of critical information I can bestow upon you, I intend to bequeath my entire fortune to you," Dagraen conveyed.

Dagraen, a figure who had amassed considerable wealth over more than a century through his operations within one of the most esteemed merchant guilds in the entirety of the Mortal Realm, possessed riches that defied the comprehension of ordinary individuals!

"Naturally, this excludes the **Transforming Rebirth's Embrace**. That shall be my final tribute to Sir Balthaazar, who has faithfully attended to my needs and served as my steadfast protector for the past three decades," Dagraen specified.

"Master..." Balthaazar managed to utter, his features clouded with profound sorrow.

Shortly after Dagraen concluded his statement, an oppressive silence descended upon the room. It was only broken when Vexpela finally broke her silence.

"You have honored the promise made to my mother after all these years. For that, I express my gratitude. As someone well-versed in the ways of commerce, I comprehend the necessity of setting aside personal animosity when presented with a lucrative opportunity. However, allow me to be unequivocally clear: I harbor no intention of forgiving you, regardless of any attempts at amends you may undertake. Nor do I plan to be so foolish as to reject the invaluable information or the considerable fortune you are offering. Nonetheless, the burden of regret stemming from your choices—your passivity—that, you must carry with you for the remainder of your days," Vexpela declared, her fury now somewhat subdued as she regained her composure.

Vexpela accepted the crystal from Dagraen's hand. After gazing at it for a few moments, she clasped it tightly within her palm.

"This old man lacks the audacity to solicit your forgiveness—nor do I anticipate receiving it. Consider it merely the final, albeit selfish, desire of an old man. It is unlikely we shall cross paths again after this day. My fervent hope is that the time will come when you ascend to the pinnacle of the Golden Dragon Association and steer it away from its errant course," Dagraen proclaimed before laboriously rising to his feet with the aid of his cane.

He then turned his attention toward Hyrell, inquiring, "Would it be permissible, Formation Master Head Hyrell, to request the release of Sir Balthaazar? I guarantee his complete compliance and assure you he will pose no further disturbance."

"Pavilion Head?" Hyrell inquired, seeking clarification.

Hyrell's actions and pronouncements effectively underscored Vexpela's supreme authority within the current situation. This realization dawned upon Dagraen, confirming that Vexpela was not merely a pawn being manipulated by others.

Despite his advanced age, Dagraen remained a cunning strategist, a formidable presence not to be underestimated. Therefore, he resolved to meticulously observe every detail until he had safely exited the premises.

"...You may grant his release, Miss Hyrell," Vexpela stated with composed finality.

Upon receiving Vexpela's directive, Hyrell promptly deactivated the magical formation that had been restraining Balthaazar's movements.

Balthaazar stood upright, then turned to bow respectfully toward Dagraen.

"Master, I have failed in my duty to protect you. Please, forgive my incompetence," Balthaazar lamented mournfully.

"Yes... You bear no fault, Sir Balthaazar. Even the notoriously difficult Sage of a Thousand Mazes retreated and bowed before Formation Master Head Hyrell. I ask for your forgiveness for the suffering you endured over these years," Dagraen replied with a smile.

He then turned his gaze towards Vexpela, Hyrell, and Izroth.

"Supreme Elder of the Fourth Pavilion, Formation Master Head Hyrell—I entrust the Fourth Pavilion Head, Vexpela, to your care. I wish you a pleasant journey," Dagraen said with deep respect.

Afterward, Dagraen and Balthaazar departed the private chambers. With less than a minute remaining until the bidding recommenced, Izroth had already determined to accept Dagraen’s offer for the Transforming Rebirth’s Embrace. It was far preferable to it falling into the hands of the Duvelle family, and the bid itself was exceptionally valuable.

Suddenly, Vexpela shattered the crystal in her hand, reducing it to dust that streamed into her head.

"So, the Eye of Insight still exists. It seems not all has changed in 150 years. Though its application appears different from what I recall," Hyrell remarked, observing the crystal's dust merging with Vexpela.

The Eye of Insight was a creation of the Alchemy profession, designed to store information. Upon shattering, the data would be directly imprinted into the user's mind. In Hyrell’s era, it was primarily utilized for transmitting forbidden techniques or clandestine messages. However, with the advent of superior alternatives, its use had diminished over time. Given its age, exceeding 130 years, it was understandable that someone like Dagraen would employ such an archaic method. Furthermore, as few individuals remained knowledgeable about the Eye of Insight, it offered a degree of security, evading detection spells that were not programmed to identify it.