Chapter 346: Die Together
Madelyn stood, gazing at the unconscious Nightingale, distress filling her. Phantom stayed, offering comfort. “You can do it. I believe in you,” he said.
Madelyn felt tears welling. What if I can’t? she thought. The Oceanic Empire are liars! They said I could try my best, so why are they pushing me so hard? Of course, she dared not voice these thoughts aloud. If they overheard, it would be over.
“Don’t worry, I’ll do my best,” Madelyn assured Phantom. He nodded, saying little, seeing her resignation. Then, he left.
Madelyn looked at Nightingale, unconscious on the bed. Seeing his pale face and missing hand, sympathy stabbed her. Oh, Nightingale, you’re so unfortunate, she thought. Thinking of her own plight, she sighed. But I’m no better than you. If I were reduced to a vegetative state like you, I could keep you company. We could at least die together.
This thought forged a profound connection with the stranger. Following this, Madelyn took up residence at the Oceanic Empire base. She had to admit they were generous with their guests. They catered to her every whim—food, hobbies, swimming, even hot spring soaks. They provided everything she needed and wanted. They even assigned her a dedicated maid, though Madelyn suspected surveillance.
Every morning, her maid attended to her with fervent attention. Madelyn was far from happy; the pampering was infuriating. She knew she was temperamental and spoiled, but she could still care for herself. So, each day, she avoided the maid.
However, the Oceanic Empire kept their word. After Madelyn requested information, Morgana promptly provided exclusive access to Nightingale's Class A confidential mission details. Any other information she needed was readily supplied.
Meanwhile, Sebastian had also acted. However, things weren't simple. Oceanic Empire was a large-scale international entity with bases worldwide. While Grimo's arsenal and Oceanic Empire frequently collaborated, their locations were inconsistent. Pinpointing headquarters was a headache. The trio had to search each location individually.
It was odd. Oceanic Empire's bases were bars, amusement parks, karaoke clubs, movie theaters, even brothels—ordinary, everyday places showing no organizational affiliation. That night, they found a club. Disguised as ordinary people, they entered and ordered cheap cocktails to blend in. Despite this, women on the street still glanced at them. It was unavoidable; the three men were exceptionally handsome. Grimo and Sebastian, in particular, remained devastatingly handsome despite their disguises.
The three chatted, sipping their drinks. After scanning the surroundings, Adelar asked, “Boss, Mr. Lockhart, do you think we’ll find anything here?”
“I’m not sure. Probably,” Grimo mused, nodding.
Sebastian, impassive yet insightful, said, “Look over there.”
Grimo and Adelar saw a masked man high-five the bar manager before going backstage.
“That mask must be an Oceanic Empire symbol,” Adelar remarked.
Grimo suggested, “Let’s capture the manager and interrogate him. We might get information.”
Sebastian coldly interrupted, “Unnecessary. I don't think he knows anything.”
“Why?” Grimo asked, puzzled.
Sebastian stated rationally, “Because he’s not the leader of this base.”
Sebastian wisely suggested, “If my guess is correct, it’s that man in the blue outfit.”
Grimo and Adelar saw a blonde foreign man in blue, leaning against the counter, seemingly lost in thought. He looked affable, yet his eyes sharply scanned the room. His gaze landed on Sebastian's group, who were also staring at him. An uncanny vibe passed between them.
The man in blue smiled, took a bottle of premium Lafite from a waiter, and walked toward them. “Hello there! If I’m not mistaken, you’re from Clusia, right?”
Sebastian remained indifferent.
The man chuckled. “No wonder, Clusian men are always handsome.” He continued, “I find you three likable, so this Lafite is my treat. Enjoy!” He left.
Adelar and Grimo stared, confused. Is this guy crazy? Why did he offer us wine?
Sebastian opened his hand. “He gave me a note.”