Chapter 972: Castoria's Resistance
"Aurora wishes to see you."
The pink-haired secretary fairy, Claer, delivered the clan leader Aurora's command to Mike's Tavern with a visibly displeased expression.
Gudao and the others exchanged puzzled glances before walking shoulder-to-shoulder toward the Grand Cathedral.
"Everyone, I've just received news that the Fairy Knight Gawain is currently stationed with troops near the Human Pasture. This isn't an opportune time to search for someone. Please wait a few more days."
Shortly after their arrival at the Grand Cathedral—without needing to announce their presence or facing obstruction from the human guards as before—Aurora appeared before them with the same gentle smile as always.
"Regarding that matter, we've actually already found Mash. There's no need to go to the Human Pasture anymore. We sincerely apologize for wasting your time and resources."
Da Vinci-chan stepped forward like Chaldea's diplomat, offering Aurora an apologetic smile.
"Oh my, you've already found her? That's undoubtedly wonderful news! I should be happy for you—how could I possibly consider it a waste?"
Hearing this, Aurora showed a genuinely pleased smile for their sake, without a trace of dissatisfaction.
"The Fairy Knight Gawain is undoubtedly a formidable enemy. If you wish to aid the Child of Prophecy, she is an unavoidable obstacle. I hope you'll remain vigilant at all times."
"Thank you for your advice."
"Actually, I called you here for another matter I wish to inform you about."
Aurora paused, her smile growing even brighter.
"I've been pondering deeply these past few days and concluded that continuing to play both sides is unwise. One should make decisions promptly. Therefore, I intend to open the Bell Tower for the Child of Prophecy!"
"Eh?"
Castoria suddenly froze.
"Please wait, Lady Aurora!"
Before Chaldea's team could react, Claer urgently stepped forward.
"Please reconsider! Opening the Bell Tower carries immense significance. If we open it now and allow the Child of Prophecy to ring the bell, it will certainly draw the Queen's wrath! When that happens, Salisbury will undoubtedly be destroyed by the Queen!"
Whoever first supports the Child of Prophecy will become the example the Queen makes to warn others!
Aurora's actions were essentially pushing the fairies of the Wind Clan toward certain doom!
"It's alright, Claer. I have faith in the capabilities of the Child of Prophecy and her companions."
Aurora smiled as if basking in spring breeze.
Her dismissive attitude made it clear she hadn't taken Claer's words to heart at all!
"You're willing to let us ring the Pilgrimage Bell at this time?"
Da Vinci-chan was also swept up in this sudden surprise. Gudao and Mash exchanged glances, seeing joy reflected in each other's eyes.
According to the prophecy, when the Child of Prophecy rings the six bells, it will signify the end of the Queen's reign!
"Th-that's right... When opportunity presents itself, we should seize it... We should ring the bell here without delay..."
Castoria forced down her inner panic, a strained smile appearing on her face.
Observing her barely maintained composure, one person remained silent for a moment before stepping forward.
"Wait, Aurora! I believe ringing the bell now is inappropriate!"
The voice was like a bucket of cold water, dousing the joy of the surprised crowd.
"Oberon?"
Aurora looked at the stern Fairy King with astonishment.
"I'm surprised. Given your enthusiasm for opposing the Queen, you're actually the first to object to ringing the bell?"
"Precisely because I must overthrow the Queen at all costs, that's why I oppose ringing the bell!"
Oberon shook his head, his expression grave as he looked at everyone.
"It's true that ringing the Pilgrimage Bell here would greatly boost the Child of Prophecy's fame and gain us many allies, but have any of you considered what comes after?"
"The Wind Clan would be targeted by the Queen?"
"That is indeed a concern, but forgive my bluntness—and Aurora, don't take offense—the Wind Clan is merely an insignificant trifle to the Queen. The more critical issue is that she would immediately see the Child of Prophecy as a thorn in her side!"
Aurora slowly nodded.
This wasn't an insult but rather the truth.
The Wind Clan could be dealt with at any time. The priority was to eliminate the Child of Prophecy who threatened her rule—that should be the smart ruler's first concern!
"Our greatest advantage right now is that we remain in the shadows. The Queen's army still doesn't know that Artoria is the Child of Prophecy. We can still operate covertly, stirring the waters and strengthening our forces. But once the Pilgrimage Bell is rung, that advantage vanishes. The Queen's attention will immediately shift to us. Given her merciless nature toward enemies, we'll inevitably face a fierce storm of attacks!"
Oberon's analysis made everything clear to everyone, and even Aurora praised his rationality.
"I see. That is indeed a wise consideration."
"According to the prophecy, the first bell to be rung should be the one in Norwich."
"Not ringing the bell now is actually the best choice."
After some discussion, Gudao and the others were quickly convinced by Oberon's reasoning.
"Since you insist, we'll let it go for now."
Aurora didn't press the matter, though she seemed somewhat resigned.
"However, the Wind Clan's Bell Tower will always be open for the Child of Prophecy. I hope you remember that."
"Ah, it's wonderful that you're so understanding!Oberon greeted him with a playful smile, his frivolous demeanor more akin to a street ruffian than a Fairy King.
Artoria slowly let out a sigh of relief, the tension in her heart finally easing.
"This can't go on... I need to make a resolution soon, but..."
An image of a village vanishing in flames flashed through her mind, and she unconsciously bit her lip.
Her mood instantly turned sour!
"Mr. Eiji, I opened the Bell Tower for them as you requested, but they were unwilling to go."
Back in her private room on the top floor of the cathedral, Aurora regretfully reported to the cloaked figure standing by the window.
"No matter. In fact, that's the smart move. But they'll have to go eventually. Just continue supporting them until then."
The cloaked figure stood by the window, taking in the entire view of Salisbury.
"That's exactly what I told them."
Aurora pursed her lips into a smile, her eyes gleaming with slight pride.
"Come here."
The cloaked figure turned around and crooked a finger at her.
Aurora's heart skipped a beat, then began racing uncontrollably. A pink flush rose from her cheeks, spreading to the tips of her ears and down her neck.
Suppressing her intense, throbbing emotions, she slowly walked toward the cloaked figure.
"You've done well with this matter. This is your reward."
The cloaked figure reached out and wrapped an arm around her waist.
Even when keeping a舔狗 on a leash, one must occasionally offer some sweetness.
Anyway, he wasn't taking responsibility—a pretty face was enough.
As he thought this, his gaze shifted toward the door, where the sound of heavily suppressed, ragged panting could be heard.
Heh heh, right in front of the husband—aren't you furious?