Elemental Magnetic Star

Chapter 136 The Illusory Splendor of the Lustrous Opal

Accepting Auric Forest's suggestion—to first experience the true essence of the Gold and Silver Sea within the Illusory Splendor's fantastical realm—Raina Grace, accompanied by Auric Forest, steps into the Illusory Splendor once again.

This time, the Illusory Splendor's steward, Lustrous Opal, personally welcomes them, a request specifically made by Auric Forest and one that Lustrous Opal is pleased to accommodate, given her curiosity and eagerness to evaluate Raina Grace, whose fame precedes her. Despite her curiosity, Lustrous Opal's professionalism remains intact: "This is the Illusory Splendor's version of the Gold and Silver Sea, about seventy to eighty percent similar to the real one. The mirage is vividly lifelike, revealing only what you wish to see."

A mirage that reveals only what's in the heart? It somewhat resembles the Freedom Tower. Raina Grace begins to doubt whether this imitation of the Gold and Silver Sea is as useful as Auric Forest claims.

Auric Forest is quite satisfied with Lustrous Opal's warm hospitality. Visiting the Illusory Splendor's rendition of the Gold and Silver Sea, although his suggestion, was actually Jadelle's strategy—using the fantasy to coax out Raina Grace's deeply hidden secrets.

Auric Forest, not one to resort to manipulation with women, prefers clear and mutual agreements. However, facing Raina Grace, who is "heartlessly" indifferent yet irresistibly captivating, he finds himself reluctantly employing subtle tactics. Despite this, he somewhat enjoys the ambiguous, chasing game. But as Jadelle points out, if he wishes to win over his lady before Silver Wolf's return, he must act swiftly. It's not that he fears Silver Wolf, but clashing with others is not in Auric Forest's nature.

Moreover, the Illusory Splendor houses a steward who considers Flame Wave an easy conquest. With concerted efforts from all sides, he's confident in securing the heart of the inexperienced girl.

Unaware of Auric Forest's hidden agenda, Lustrous Opal has heard of his reputable character—charming but not indecent, overall gentle and wealthy, making him popular among women. But what intrigues her is the appearance of this girl—carefully shielded by Flame Wave, his legendary "divine couple"—in the Illusory Splendor with Auric Forest, headed for the enchanting "Gold and Silver Sea." Though Flame Wave is currently absent from the Celestial Domain, the girl's open and clear demeanor does not suggest loneliness.

Regardless of her speculations, Lustrous Opal could never turn away guests, only welcoming them with even greater diligence. That's the mark of an adept, versatile steward of the Illusory Splendor.

"Why did you suggest that to Auric Forest?" Silver Tan also questions Jadelle on their way back from the Gold department.

"Don't you think this is the fastest way to resolve the issue?" Jadelle asks proudly in return.

"Isn't asking her directly the quickest path?" Silver Tan, who advocates for a straightforward approach with Raina Grace to clarify the situation, believes their current objective aligns—at least for now—to rid the Azure Phoenix of its abyssal powers.

"Hmph, you think she would tell? Despite your time with her in the Sky Domain, you're still so naive," Jadelle criticizes Silver Tan for his lack of subtlety. "You heard her conversation with Auric Forest. Despite his best efforts, he couldn't get a straight answer from her."

Isn't that because your methods are too roundabout, leaving her confused about your intentions? Silver Tan ponders silently.

However, he's learned not to argue with Jadelle on matters of interpersonal interactions, as she prides herself on her cunning, which she believes he cannot comprehend, often dismissing him with a sarcastic smile that leaves Silver Tan internally fuming.