Norton saw the same thoughts in his companions' expressions. His face flushed red and pale by turns—he thought them utterly irrational, useless allies.

Though several urged him to leave, Norton ignored them completely. His expression darkened as he spoke firmly: "No matter why young master Lyn is here, he must cooperate with our inspection."

"Just let the Eye of Judgment scan him. Young master Lyn can easily prove his innocence. It won't waste time—just offer a single drop of blood."

Norton finished and coldly blocked Lyn's path.

Lyn sensed the man's eagerness to use the Eye of Judgment. He replied calmly, "And if I refuse?"

"Isn't Belmond's honor enough to prove my innocence? Do you think I, as Belmond blood, would conspire with the Abyss you hunt?"

"We trust Belmond's reputation, but Church law is strict. This is routine. Please, young master Lyn, don't make this difficult."

"One drop of blood won't harm you. Dragging this out wastes your time. If you're truly innocent, you should cooperate."

Norton's eyes flickered.

"Everyone knows the Truth Church covets noble bloodlines. How do I know you want my blood for investigation—or something darker?"

Lyn smiled, utterly unafraid. "You want my cooperation? Too bad. I, Lyn, love saying no to arrogant fools!"

Arrogance +1!

"Then I must apologize for this," Norton snapped, dropping all pretense. Cold light flashed in his eyes—he realized arguing was pointless.

"Seize him. I'll take full responsibility for any consequences."

In Norton's view, Lyn was pure trash. Without Belmond's glory, he was nothing.

The girl in Lyn's arms had shocked him with her strength earlier—but that was only due to his carelessness. With magic ready, he'd rewrite the outcome.

His goal now was to shatter this noble's pride. One drop of Lyn's blood would give him absolute proof to cast Lyn into the Abyss.

"Norton Knight—"

The other knights tried to protest, but Norton's icy glare made their hearts lurch.

They followed him because he held their secrets. When he pushed hard, they had no choice.

That glare also made them realize: Norton had targeted Lyn deliberately. Noble politics were at play.

None wanted this whirlpool—but seeing Norton's murderous look, they knew retreat was impossible.

These thoughts flashed in an instant. Norton unleashed his magic, lunging for Lyn with a cold command:

"If young master Lyn avoids pain, he won't resist."

But before his words faded, Norton's eyelids jerked. The girl in Lyn's arms had vanished.

He looked down—only to find a tiny figure darting right before him!