Chapter 698: Cindy Volunteers

Cindy's sharp mind opened a new door for Steven.

He had never considered the possibility of a traitor within Blizzard City.

Even with power struggles, no one would be crazy enough to collaborate with Eroding Moon.

But when you eliminate the impossible, whatever remains, no matter how improbable, must be the truth.

Steven had been puzzled for a while about how the Heavenly Team was so easily wiped out.

Even if Miles couldn't win, he should have been able to escape, right?

At least when Steven took down those four Eroding Moon members, it didn't take much effort.

Sure, his strength played a part, but the Heavenly Team members weren't weak either.

The most likely explanation was that all their intel had been leaked to Eroding Moon!

That's why they were so thoroughly countered in battle.

And no one paid attention to Steven, an outsider psychic.

Because of this, he managed to seize a great opportunity and achieve a brilliant victory.

Steven fell silent.

It was all too complicated, too convoluted for him to grasp.

He hadn't planned on getting involved in other people's affairs.

But now, he was in the thick of it.

Could he be dragged into this mess and stabbed in the back?

Seeing Steven's troubled expression, Cindy continued to analyze the situation.

"Steven, Ian wants you to lead the new investigation team, right?"

"Have you thought about why?"

Steven looked at Cindy and said, "Because my abilities can help them fight Eroding Moon. And from the previous battles, my strength is evident."

Cindy nodded.

"That's part of it. Strength is important. After all, if some people in the district really wanted to harm Miles, they've already achieved their goal."

"But they don't actually want the district to fall to Eroding Moon. So, moving forward, no one will sabotage the efforts to eliminate Eroding Moon."

"And the team leader needs to be strong but also non-threatening to the higher-ups' power."

"Any local psychic in Blizzard City with enough strength would have a significant status."

"At this point, whoever defeats Eroding Moon and restores the reputation of Silvercrest District, or even the entire Astralium Kingdom, will see their fame skyrocket!"

"And that person could become Ian's successor."

"In Blizzard City, multiple factions keep each other in check. No one wants another to claim this glory."

Steven pondered, "So, they pushed me, an outsider psychic, to the forefront?"

"I have no roots in Blizzard City. Even if I complete the mission, I won't threaten the higher-ups' power."

"And," Steven suddenly smiled, "I've always rejected Blizzard City's attempts to recruit me. This shows I'm not interested in power or Blizzard City."

"Even if I become a hero, they can easily let me stay in Starlight City."

"I see, I see!"

Steven wasn't foolish. With Cindy's analysis, he quickly understood.

"This is a tricky situation to get involved in!"

Steven sighed.

Cindy, however, smiled. "Actually, you don't need to worry so much. If things are as they seem, you'll be safer."

"Only by you leading the Dire Wolf Team can Blizzard City maintain relative peace. The major factions will reach a consensus and not sabotage each other."

Steven shrugged. "I hope so! Anyway, I've decided. This mission is challenging. If things go south, I'll bail and save my own skin first."

Steven knew himself well.

He didn't let his newfound powerful abilities make him arrogant.

The Eroding Moon incident involved too many complexities, like a giant roulette wheel.

Anyone could become a casualty.

He had to tread carefully, not letting his emotions cloud his judgment.

Cindy lowered her head and smiled mysteriously.

"If you're worried, take me with you this time! I can help you strategize."

Cindy finally revealed her true intention.

Only when Steven needed her could she stand by his side and showcase her abilities.

Steven gave Cindy a long look.

Her intentions were clear, with no attempt to hide them.

After some thought, Steven said, "You've never been on a real battlefield. People die there. I can't even guarantee I can always protect you. Do you understand?"

Although Cindy had awakened her supernatural ability, Steven wasn't sure how effective it was.

An eighteen-year-old girl on the battlefield, if something happened, Steven couldn't bear to think about it.

Cindy earnestly replied, "I won't be a burden! Don't treat me like a child."

"And having someone you trust by your side is safer, isn't it?"

Henry chimed in, slapping his thigh and seriously suggesting:

"That's right, Steven. The people in Blizzard City might not be trustworthy. It's better to rely on our own."

"Let me go with you too!"

Steven quickly waved his hand.

"Don't joke around. This opponent is no joke. Even Blizzard City has carefully selected elites for this fight."

"I'll think about it."

He realized he did need Cindy by his side.

In terms of brains, Cindy was much more useful.

Steven's smarts were enough for small matters, but this situation was clearly more complex.

Plus, Cindy's upper-class background meant she knew more about these intricacies.

He had to focus on the battle and navigate Blizzard City's undercurrents, which was too much for him alone.

On the other hand, taking Cindy along would let him observe her supernatural ability and train her combat skills.

At worst, he could have Fluffy protect her.

After dinner, Steven chatted with everyone, reminding them to stay indoors and keep an eye on Starlight City's happenings.

Then, he pretended to go to his room to rest.

But he quietly went to Cindy's room.

Cindy sat on her pink princess bed, looking up at him.

"Steven, I knew you'd come!"

"You made your choice, so you need to know what comes next."

Steven took a deep breath and pulled a gun from his pocket.