It took a mont, but the others accepted it. Whether they liked it or not, the Fool had spoken.
When the gathering shifted into open discussion, Audrey raised her hand first.
"I recently tried to purchase the Spectator formula at a Beyonder gathering," she said carefully. "Two individuals who may belong to the Psychology Alchemists have begun contacting through certain nobles. I’d like more information about the organization before deciding whether to join."
Originally, she had intended to ask the Fool privately.
But the Tarot Club had grown. With mbers like Mr. Strength and the three newcors, she suspected she might receive broader insight by speaking openly.
Klein spoke first.
"The Psychology Alchemists likely ford over two centuries ago. They began as a circle of mysticism enthusiasts interested in exploring the power of the human mind. Later, they supposedly acquired a treasure map that led them to significant occult knowledge, including formulas connected to the Visionary pathway."
He paused.
"From what I’ve seen, joining them shouldn’t pose imdiate danger."
Bernadette added quietly, "Their leader is Boli Delrau. His other identity is one of the Four Pirate Kings, ’King of the Black Throne’ Barros Hopkins."
The table stirred.
"Years ago," she continued, "the treasure map they found was said to be part of Hers’ legacy."
That na landed heavily.
Alger’s expression sharpened.
Roselle rubbed his chin.
"Knowing Hers, that map wasn’t generosity. It was positioning," he muttered. "He’s one of the senior mbers of the Twilight Hermits Order. If he left sothing behind, it was to cultivate influence."
Alger looked stunned.
"Hers? The Hers who codified modern mysticism and created Ancient Hers language? He’s still alive?"
Hers dated back to the Second Epoch. He had organized foundational mystical theory and, through language, given humanity the tools to wield spiritual power instead of remaining prey.
Audrey blinked.
"What’s the Twilight Hermits Order?"
Fors and Xio looked equally lost.
Roselle gave a concise explanation.
"It was founded by Adam," he said. "If you ever speak of that organization or Adam’s na outside a protected space, assu you’ve been heard. I’m only saying this because the Fool’s authority shields us here."
The room grew quiet.
"Adam..." Audrey whispered.
The Angel of Imagination. One of the Eight Kings of Angels.
A legend brushing against reality.
Audrey inhaled slowly.
"So the Psychology Alchemists may be tied to Adam?"
The scale of it unsettled her.
She had expected an esoteric club.
Not a shadow linked to an angelic king.
Perhaps it would be wiser to withdraw.
Rowan rcer finally spoke.
"You should join."
The words were calm.
"Don’t be afraid. I will protect you."
Audrey looked up.
"If you can trace their connection to Adam," Rowan continued, "you may negotiate with the Black Emperor for the complete set of Visionary formulas, from Sequence Six through Sequence Zero. I will cover the cost."
Silence followed.
Roselle nodded once.
"If you et the requirent, I’ll provide every Visionary formula and the associated knowledge."
The offer struck like lightning.
Audrey’s composure cracked.
Every formula.
Every step of her pathway.
All the way to the summit.
She swallowed.
The more she learned of the hidden world, the clearer it beca that safety was an illusion. Power was the only shield.
Even nobles died if the wrong high-level Beyonder decided it.
If she succeeded, she would secure her future.
And her family’s.
Rowan’s promise of protection steadied her racing heart.
She trusted him.
"Respected Fool," Audrey said, voice firm now,
"I accept the task."
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