Zongman: Pan-dimensional sign-in system

Page 58

Rose looked at her mother who had been acting with her here since she escaped, and felt an unspeakable sadness in her heart. When did her mother betray her and her father? Or had she done it from the very beginning? She said she was worried, but why did a hint of murderous intent flash across her face just now?

"I, during that time, was lucky enough to become a disciple of the Valkyrie Beatrice and learn swordsmanship from her."

Hearing the name of the Valkyrie, Perotti enthusiastically took his daughter's hand and smiled stiffly, with an awkward and tentative look on his face, he said:

"Then you must have learned something. Tell me what you have learned."

Rose's face was filled with bitterness. Her heart had finally died, and her mother could no longer be saved.

"Mother, what are you thinking about? It's only been a short time, what can I learn? Just the basics."

"Fur or fur, fur or fur, so you're coming back now to marry Doem?"

Hearing his mother's jealous voice, Ross clenched his fists where Perotti couldn't see. "Father's Chinese medicine was fed to him by you personally in collusion with that bastard Doem, turning him into a puppet of an idiot old man. Even if he was rescued and treated by Shangguan Wen and others, he would be terminally ill and would not live long. Do you want to use the same method to control me now?"

Ross wanted to say that there was either a better candidate for Doem or you, but considering the subsequent plan, he forced himself to hold back his words.

“No, I want to calm down.”

"Roz, how can this be? You are already 18 years old and have reached the age to get married. Your marriage will also bring more joy to the Kingdom of Oriana."

[What a ridiculous expression of joy! It's to better control Oriana. Do I really not know about the Great Purge of Doem? Most of those loyal to the royal family were killed, and people of unknown origins took high positions. Now the Kingdom of Oriana has become Oriana of the Diabolos Cult!]

Rose's eyes flickered in the dim carriage. She tried to maintain a calm exterior, not letting the anger and despair within her betray even a hint. She took a deep breath and tried to sound calm and resolute.

"Mother, I understand your concerns, but I'm feeling very complicated right now and need time to sort things out. Regarding marriage, I hope to make my own decisions, rather than becoming a pawn in a political marriage."

Queen Perotti's smile froze for a moment, then she returned to her gentle and kind look, as if the calculation just now was just Ross's illusion.

"Roz, my child, you misunderstood me. I just want you to be happy. After all, as the queen, I also have my own difficulties and considerations. But your happiness is always my top priority."

Roz sneered, her heartbroken heart growing even more desolate. She knew there was no point in continuing this conversation. Her mother was no longer the loving and protective mother she once was. She had become a stranger, corrupted by power and desire.

"Mother, I understand. I will consider your suggestion, but before that, please allow me to go home and calm down. I'm not going anywhere."

There was unquestionable determination in Roz's words. She knew that this was the only thing she could do at the moment, and what she had to do.

Queen Perotti seemed to want to say something more, but ultimately she simply sighed and nodded. "Alright, Rose, go ahead. But remember, no matter what happens, you are the Princess of Orliana, and every decision you make affects the future of the kingdom." The train continued to move forward, the scenery outside the window rapidly receding, but Rose's heart was heavy. She knew that upon returning to the capital, she would face an even more complex struggle. Not only would she have to expose and disrupt the Diabolos Cult's conspiracy, but she would also have to protect herself and those who truly cared about her from harm.

When they arrived at the Royal Capital Railway Station, Ross took the opportunity to go to the restroom and replaced the puppet with himself. She hid in the shadow of the puppet and controlled the actions of the puppet that was exactly the same as hers.

Ross said as he looked through the manual:

"As expected of Wen, such a finely crafted puppet, not even the Kingdom or the Diabolos Cult can do it, and he can even hide in the shadows and control it, how terrifying!"

Knock, knock, there's a knock on the toilet door.

"Roz, we've arrived at the station. Haven't you settled it yet?"

"Perotti, this old man, is really a loyal dog. He sold out his daughter and husband so thoroughly."

"It's all right now, Mother."

Ross entered the puppet and used his substitute to push open the door. Outside, he saw his mother and a group of knights from the Royal Capital Garrison dressed in unfamiliar attire.

[These people are... the sons of Diabolos]

"Oh, oh, the princess who went out for fun is finally back home."

Under the train appeared Doem's disgusting face.

"Yes, I'm back"

Ross controlled the puppet, a decent but slightly cold smile on his face, but his eyes flashed with a sharp light, and he observed everything around him calmly.

The scent emitted by these garrison knights is the same as that of the Sons of Diabolos who appeared in the city of Sethu. They are one of the elite forces of the cult.

"Mother, who are these knights..." 340 Ross asked with feigned curiosity, rapidly formulating a strategy. She knew that every step back to the capital was fraught with uncertainty and danger. Her traitorous mother and Doem wouldn't practice chivalry.

"These are elite troops His Majesty has dispatched from far away parts of the Kingdom to strengthen the capital's security. Captain Doem is someone we can trust."

Upon hearing this, Doem just sneered, seemingly unconcerned with such an introduction.

"Welcome back, Ross. However, your journey seems to be a little slower than we expected."

Ross's heart tightened, but his expression remained calm.

"After a tiring journey, a short rest is only natural. Besides, I heard that things in the capital have been quite uneasy lately, so it's always better to be cautious."

"Roz is right. Safety always comes first. Now, let's return to the palace as soon as possible. The palace needs you, the heir, to take charge of the situation."

The group walked along the VIP passage of the train station. Ross hid in the shadows of the puppets, taking advantage of this rare opportunity to observe the enemy's every move. Along the way, she noticed the subtle glances occasionally exchanged between the queen and Doem, as well as the silent understanding between the knights. She became more convinced that the moment she stepped into the palace again was the moment she was placed under house arrest.

Let's wait and see!

Chapter 122 Entering the Kingdom of Oriana

Ross's entry into the game attracted the attention of the Diabolos Cult, while Shangguan Wen brought Epsilon into the Kingdom of Oriana as their student.

Sitting in the carriage, looking at the Oriana soldiers moving around from time to time, there was still a smell of blood in the air that had not been cleaned up.

Epsilon, nestled in Shangguan Wen's embrace, said:

"Cid, this country is completely controlled by Doem and the cult behind him. The apparent peace is nothing more than a false alarm before the approaching storm."

Shangguan Wen gently stroked Epsilon's soft hair, his eyes gleaming with determination. He whispered back:

"Yes, Epsilon, but precisely because of this, we must delve deeper into the tiger's den and uncover that veil of hypocrisy. Ross has already opened the first door for us. Now it is our turn to find the truth and save this country shrouded in darkness."

Outside the carriage, the streets of the Kingdom of Oriana were still prosperous, but upon closer inspection, it was not difficult to see the worry and uneasiness in the eyes of the citizens.

Although the vendors' voices were loud, they could not drown out the occasional whispers, all of which expressed their fear and dissatisfaction with Doem and the forces behind him.

After entering the palace, Epsilon snuggled intimately in Shangguan Wen's arms and walked inside. They were going to meet the pianist who was going to perform.

At this time, an uninvited guest interrupted what Shangguan Wen and Epsilon were about to say.

“Isn’t this Lord Xilong?”

The two turned around and saw Doem Ketzhart, the most powerful man in Oriana, approaching with a group of nobles and merchants who were prostrating themselves at his feet.

"It turns out to be Duke Doem-Ketshihart. It's me, Epsilon."

Aidom nodded slightly and said:

"Is Siron going to perform at lunch today?"

"Yes, according to the performance treaty signed between the Royal Family of Oriana and me, it is today..."

Aidom looked at Shangguan Wen beside him, feeling that he had seen this guy somewhere before, and asked tentatively:

"Sir Xilong, may I know who this is?"

“He is my student.”

"Oh, student, I wonder if you can have your student perform a piano performance?"

Epsilon replied confidently with a smile:

"Of course, Sid, you go first."

"Yes, Mr. Xilong."

Shangguan Wen nodded slightly when he heard this, and a calm smile appeared on his face.

He slowly approached a magnificent piano perched in a corner of the palace. It was a work of art meticulously crafted by top-tier artisans and inlaid with dazzling gemstones. Its sound was said to touch the deepest emotions of the human heart. The crowd around him automatically made way for him, all eyes focused on the young musician. The air was filled with a mixture of anticipation and tension.

Shangguan Wen sat down gracefully, adjusted his posture, and gently placed his hands on the black and white keys. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath, as if he was having a silent conversation with the piano. A moment later, his fingertips gently fell, and a series of clear and melodious melodies flowed out, like the first ray of sunlight in the morning penetrating the mist, warm and full of hope. This piece of music was composed by him based on the customs and people of Oriana. The melody contains both deep affection for this land and infinite longing for the future. As the music progresses, the melody is sometimes passionate and surging, like the magnificent mountains and rivers; sometimes gentle and delicate, like the gurgling stream. Every note is precise and every turn is just right, showing his profound musical foundation and deep understanding of the art of piano.

Duke Doem-Ketshart and the nobles and merchants around him had originally suggested Sid perform out of politeness and curiosity, but now, they were all captivated by the sudden and beautiful music, their faces filled with surprise and admiration. Even Edom, who always considered himself a music connoisseur, had to admit that this young musician possessed extraordinary talent and charm. Epsilon stood nearby, taking out his camera and snapping photos of Shangguan Wen non-stop, his mouth almost watering.

As the last note slowly faded into the air, the audience erupted in thunderous applause. Shangguan Wen stood up, bowed slightly to everyone around him, his face filled with a smile of satisfaction and joy.

Shangguan Wen's outstanding piano performance prompted many people present to come forward and ask for his contact information.

"Everyone, wait a minute, my apprentice hasn't finished his apprenticeship yet."

The dignitaries were a little disappointed, and they all had great respect for the famous piano teacher Epsilon. Shangguan Wen's performance just now had surpassed most pianists, and there were almost no peers who could compare with him. If he was not even a master, how much stronger would he be in the future?

After a brief greeting, Shangguan Wen and Epsilon came to the VIP lounge under the pretext of taking a break.

A servant in a maid's uniform came in and respectfully poured water for the two of them.

"I'm the maid Margaret, usually in charge of Lord Ross's bedroom. I'm very familiar with the royal city. Let me show you around here, my guest."

Shangguan Wen cast a hypnotic spell into Margaret's eyes, simply testing whether she was a spy sent by Doem.

After hypnosis, Margaret truthfully told the purpose of her trip and the place where Princess Roz was recently imprisoned.

"I see, Margaret, thank you for speaking frankly."

Shangguan Wen withdrew the magic of hypnosis, and a hint of apology flashed in his eyes. After all, it was not a gentleman's behavior to explore other people's thoughts without reason, but in this royal city where undercurrents were surging, it was necessary to act cautiously.

Epsilon nodded silently, acknowledging Shangguan Wen's sharpness and caution. She turned to Margaret and said gently:

"Margaret, since you have no ill will towards us, we will naturally not make things difficult for you. However, for your safety and ours, we hope you will remain vigilant. If you notice anything unusual, please inform us immediately or protect yourself."

Margaret nodded gratefully, her eyes slightly red, as if she was moved by the tolerance and understanding of the two distinguished guests.

"Yes, sir, ma'am, I will. Please allow me to continue to serve you and take you to enjoy a pleasant time in the royal city."

Under Margaret's guidance, they arrived at a pavilion in the garden and looked around.

"I've sensed that there's no one within 50 meters."

"Yes, the princess is in the tall building ahead. There's a magic-triggered alarm system installed below the building, and the downstairs and corridors are being guarded by Duke Doem Ketzhart's men."

"Thank you very much".

Chapter 123: Farce at the Wedding

After avoiding the guards, Shangguan Wen came to the room where Ross was. At this moment, she was wearing a black dress, her face was haggard and her mind was exhausted.

If it was the swords of the Diabolos Cult, Ross wouldn't even frown as she swung her sword at them, but her mother's betrayal was what hurt her most.

"If you want to cry, then cry. I've set up a barrier to block any outside eavesdropping."

A familiar voice interrupted Luo Zi's sorrow. She turned around and saw Shangguan Wen standing in front of her.

Luo Zi could no longer bear the longing and flew into Shangguan Wen's arms.

"Sid, how did you get in? The entire building is guarded by members of the cult. That's right, with your strength, no one can find you."

"Let's not talk about this. I've been working hard these past few days."

"No, this is what I should do. I can't let you and my father protect me from the wind and rain."

Shangguan Wen gently stroked Luo Zi's jade back, gently and firmly, as if he could dispel all the haze in her heart.

For Rhodes, this blow was not only the loss of a safe haven, but also a severe blow to her deepest beliefs.

"Roz, you know what? True strength isn't about never crying, but being able to stand up after crying and keep moving forward. Your mother made the wrong choice, but you still have your father and me. What you need to do is be more clear-headed and stronger than your mother."

Shangguan Wen's words were like warm sunshine, penetrating the haze in Rose's heart and giving her strength.

Ross raised his head from his arms, his eyes slightly red, but with a bit more determination in them.

"You're right, Sid. I can't allow myself to remain immersed in sorrow. I must stand up for my father, for myself, and for those who have suffered innocently. I must eliminate the heinous [Diabolos Cult] and its lackeys and accomplices!"

Shangguan Wen smiled and nodded. This was the strong Ross.

"Well, in a few days, Mordred from the Diabolos Cult will emerge. If we eliminate him and his leading members, Oriana will be safe for the time being."

Speaking of safety, Ross hurriedly said:

"Since I came back, that bastard Doem and his backstabbing mother have been urging me to get married."

Shangguan Wen stroked Luo Zijin's hair and said:

"The marriage is fake. The ring needs your blood to be real. I need you to open the door of the Black Rose in the Kingdom of Oriana."

Hearing the word "Black Rose", Ross hugged Shangguan Wen tightly, his eyes filled with worry, fear, and terror. Shangguan Wen told her that in the past, on the eve of the demise of the Kingdom of Orliana, the invading 10 Bekada army was annihilated by an unknown monster outside the royal capital.

The [Diabolos Cult] is eager to gain more powerful strength through the [Black Rose] channel connecting to the other world. Its Mordred faction is so eager to target Oriana because there is a powerful enemy [Shadow Garden] outside. Under the competition between different factions inside, they put all their chips on the line for the [Black Rose] door where Oriana once appeared.

Rose's voice trembled slightly, and she buried her head in Shangguan Wen's chest, as if this could temporarily escape those disturbing memories and the impending danger.

"If...if my blood really triggers the mechanism inside the ring and opens the Black Rose Gate, what consequences will it bring? Can we prevent this?"

Shangguan Wen patted her back gently, and their eyes met, full of trust and determination. His eyes were firm and gentle as he said:

"Rhodes, I'm here. Try to stop it and avoid more casualties."

Ross hummed softly. This had already been the chosen battlefield, and minimizing casualties was already the best option.