Chapter 471

Sebastian produced a sheet of paper listing various drugs and poisons, along with their effects and side effects. He briefly showed it to them before explaining each in turn.

The first, Hellfire, caused hallucinations, magnifying a person's deepest obsessions and thereby granting them greater strength. However, it required an antidote. The woman, after killing her family, had attempted to chase down the neighbors. But when officials arrived, she had calmed down. Therefore, Hellfire was not the cause.

The second, Shadecap, a type of fungus, could induce hallucinations and madness, potentially leading to self-harm or violence. Before such effects occurred, the person would display symptoms like uncontrollable crying or laughter, and erratic movement. Shadecap would not give someone enough strength to kill twelve people.

The third was the Soulgrip Threadworm, a parasitic worm that enters the brain and allows another person to control its host's actions. The controlled individual would retain memories of the event.

Sebastian continued, "The most crucial point is that a Soulgrip Threadworm causes hallucinations and can elicit tremendous, frenzied strength. During the period of control, the person would appear transformed, with their body and limbs under the controller's command. If the controller is a skilled martial artist, the person would exhibit similar strength and martial prowess."

After hearing Sebastian's explanation, Patrick and the two deputy ministers exchanged glances, their brows furrowing in contemplation.

"But how did a Soulgrip Threadworm enter her head?" Patrick asked.

Sebastian replied, "Through food or medicine. The worms might have been in her brain for a long time, as they grow slowly. It usually takes six months to a year for them to mature and become effective."

Patrick said, "Just because such a thing exists doesn't mean she was infected with them."

"I'm here to clarify a few things. This case still has its mysteries. For example, why was she able to kill twelve people—her own family members, no less—so easily? The most plausible explanation seems to be the Soulgrip Threadworm."

Rafael asked the crucial question, "If it is indeed a Soulgrip Threadworm, are you confident in removing it from the woman's body?"

"No need for me. My apprentice, Ivy, can handle it. She is deeply knowledgeable about and very familiar with parasitic toxins," Sebastian replied.

Rafael nodded. "Thank you, Sebastian."

Rafael then turned to Matthew and said, "Please have someone escort Sebastian back."

Matthew personally saw him out. Upon his return, silence fell over the room.

Matthew asked, "Your Highness, should we return the case for re-examination?"

Patrick responded first, "With the doubts resolved, it should indeed be returned for re-examination."

Rafael, however, shook his head. "No. This case is more complex than it seems. Mr. Lloyd, I suggest that both the Supreme Court and the Ministry of Justice submit a joint petition to the king, requesting him to appoint a special investigator."

Patrick was taken aback. Generally, when doubts existed about a case, it was returned for re-examination. Appointing a special investigator implied distrust in the local governor. Could it be that the Hell Monarch had uncovered information unknown to the Ministry of Justice?

Realizing this, Patrick immediately said to the two deputy ministers, "Keep this matter confidential. Don't utter a word to anyone, especially regarding the Soulgrip Threadworm. We will decide after submitting a joint petition to the king."

Those present understood the gravity of the situation. The evidence was questionable, and the victims were respected locals. The entire family was wiped out, and the case had caused a significant stir, suggesting someone might be manipulating the situation.

They had to handle this case carefully, or they could lose their jobs.

After further consideration, Patrick broke into a cold sweat and bowed to Rafael. "I apologize for any offense, Your Highness. I hope you can forgive me."

Rafael replied, "Your urgency stems from public pressure to convict the accused woman quickly, Mr. Lloyd. But rushing this could lead to mistakes."

Patrick wiped the sweat from his forehead. "Your careful approach is admirable, Your Highness. Fortunately, you have delayed things. If we had followed the initial ruling, it might have caused bigger problems."

Rafael warned, "Being in a high position means you need to be extra cautious, especially with your daughter in the palace. Any mistake could be costly."

"Yes, of course!" Patrick murmured, his previous anxiety and agitation replaced by a calm demeanor.