An Owl's Rise-Chapter 458 - Chaos in the Miris Sect

'Wow, she looks like she's aged several decades.' Evelyn thought upon seeing the grand elder of the Miris Sect.

This was the first time they had met since the incident involving the Deamhain Sect members and the owls had occurred.

The vibrant woman that had appeared to be in the prime of her life now had heavy bags under her eyes and numerous wrinkles marring her brow.

Her previously lustrous brown hair had also turned mostly grey and was frazzled.

Overall, Vivienne's appearance was so drastically different that she looked like a different person.

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'I knew stress could age people, but this is pretty extreme.'

Evelyn almost felt bad since it was her and her companions' actions that had brought about the calamity that was soon to befall Miris Sect, and Vivienne along with it.

Nevertheless, to destroy the Tyrannis Union, crushing Vivienne's home was a necessary first step. If she was able to do it over a thousand times, Evelyn would make the same choices she had. She was resolved to leave a mountain of bodies in her wake if it brought her to her goal.

"I was a bit surprised to hear from you lady Vivienne, but we are glad to once again get to enjoy the company of the Miris Sect's Grand Elder." Lucia said, taking the lead since she was technically in charge of their group.

"Yes, it was difficult to make time for this, but as things are going, this is my only option."

There was a desperate look in Vivienne's eyes as she spoke. It was clear that she was at her wits end and grasping for anything that might help.

She then turned to Evelyn and brought up the debt that she owed her for the abrupt request for a method to enter the Miris Sect's largest entertainment venue.

"To pay both Maeve and me back, I want you all to take my grandniece away when you leave. I was hoping to provide refuge for her here far away from our family's struggles, but it seems that will be impossible now. At this rate, all that awaits her is a horrid fate. If she stays here, death will be the most merciful outcome. In the worst case, I don't even want to imagine what might happen." Vivienne said, wearing a terrified expression.

While she had already accepted her own downfall, she wanted to save Maeve if at all possible.

Evelyn had to fight back a grimace at this proposition. She did not hate Maeve, but that did not mean that she wanted to be responsible for the girl.

Having someone tag along with them would only impede their plans. Afterall, causing a schism between the Miris and Deamhain Sects was only the first step.

Before Evelyn could answer, though, Lucia responded in her stead.

"Very well, we will bring Maeve with us. It is the least that we can do to thank you for your assistance during our stay here."

Vivienne sighed in relief hearing this, and a great weight seemed to be lifted from her shoulders.

'She's more caring than I thought. I figured that she cared for Maeve, but not to this degree. To think she'd prioritize her grandniece's safety over her own.' Evelyn thought, her opinion of Vivienne rising.

Feeling curious she asked Vivienne if she wanted to accompany them as well. If she left with them, it would be easier to hand responsibility of Maeve off to her once they left the Tyrannis Union.

Yet, despite being conflicted, Vivienne only shook her head.

"Maeve is one thing, she's only been here for a short time. But this place had been my home for decades now. If I abandon the Miris Sect, it will fall shortly afterwards. I'll then be hunted down by the Union's inquisitors. My only hope is to stay and fight. Ellison and I still have some allies to call upon. We might get through this yet."

After discussing her plan in more detail, Vivienne handed over a storage bracelet to Lucia.

Inside was practically a fortune in magic crystals.

"I know that this is not an official job, but please consider that as an advance payment for keeping Maeve safe."

"Understood. We'll look after her in your place." Lucia responded resolutely.

Once their meeting had wrapped up, Evelyn went to personally get Maeve while the others completed some last-minute preparation now that they would have another companion accompanying them.