Black Shores...
Flower Warden?
What is that?
A worker from some organization?
Puzzled, Ray looked at the woman who claimed to be from the Black Shores, then leaned closer to Lupa, lowering his voice to ask, "The Black Shores... what's that place?"
Lupa was momentarily taken aback, a look of confusion appearing on her face.
She thought for a moment before cautiously replying, "I think... I've heard the name before. They're one of the most mysterious international organizations in the world today, not belonging to any single country or region."
"They also have an extremely unique selection process for members. Generally speaking, they would never easily reveal their identity."
"But why would you expose your identity to us?"
As she said this, Lupa looked warily at Isidora.
The latter still maintained a modest smile. Facing the young woman's questioning, she replied very naturally, "Actually, the Black Shores isn't as mysterious as you might think."
"We are an international non-profit organization that maintains good cooperative relationships with various countries and regions. The Black Shores has always been an expert in responding to the Lament and a defender of human civilization."
"However, due to the special nature of our work, the Black Shores' demand for talent is always urgent. Therefore, Flower Wardens like me, besides gathering intelligence and monitoring Lament anomalies worldwide, also shoulder the responsibility of seeking suitable talent for the organization."
Hearing this, Ray suddenly understood.
So it's an HR person.
No, that's not quite HR; more like a headhunter.
"So, you chose to expose your identity to recruit us?"
Isidora nodded with a smile. "Yes, the Black Shores always keeps its doors open to talent from all over the world, fighting to protect our shared future."
Future Guardians, indeed.
"So, you're planning to recruit Lupa?" Ray asked.
Otherwise, who else could it be?
As a star gladiator of Septimont, Lupa's strength was self-evident.
In Septimont, gladiators weren't just symbols of glory; they were also a core force in resisting the incursions of the Dark Tide.
So, it wasn't surprising at all that the Black Shores wanted to recruit Lupa.
As for me?
Ray didn't think his modest reputation and ability were enough to catch the eye of such an organization.
Though he had indeed prevented a major disaster before, the incident involved special circumstances, and he had never wanted it publicized.
Now, apart from Phoebe, only Carlotta knew about it oh, right.
Almost forgot about Phrolova.
"Yes, and no." Isidora's reply carried a hint of ambiguity. When she looked at Ray, a trace of something elusive entered her gaze. "Gladiator Lupa's fame is naturally known to everyone in Septimont. The Black Shores indeed needs combatants like her to prepare for the impending crisis."
She gently shifted the direction of her words, her gaze returning to Lupa. "However, for Gladiator Lupa, the arena is her entire world. I think, before she wins the Grand Tournament championship, she probably won't consider joining the Black Shores." She offered a slight smile, her tone gentle yet certain. "Wouldn't you agree, Gladiator Lupa?"
Lupa was momentarily taken aback before letting out a hearty laugh. "That's about right. My only dream right now is to win the Grand Tournament championship. As for saving the world or something... that's still too distant for the current me. That kind of thing can wait until after I win the championship."
"Is that so?" Ray narrowed his eyes, staring at her. "If you're not here for Lupa, then... are you here for me?"
Isidora turned to look at him, smiling without confirming or denying. "Actually, the Black Shores' early warning system detected anomalous Dark Tide fluctuations around the Riccioli Islands several months ago. However, because the local Order is relatively closed-off, and Dark Tide activity had remained stable, we chose not to intervene directly, maintaining only surveillance."
She paused briefly, her gaze quietly resting on Ray's face, her tone meaningful. "Until a few days ago, that Dark Tide frequency suddenly vanished. Regarding this, Mr. Ray... don't you have anything you'd like to say?"
"..."
The Black Shores already knew about this?
So soon?
And with so many people in the Riccioli Islands, how did they know I was the one who resolved the Dark Tide?
Dammit, my info's been leaked!
"You've been investigating me in secret?"
Isidora shook her head. "Only because the incident was too extraordinary, forcing us to invest significant effort into investigating it."
True enough.
The Dark Tide was the vanguard of Leviathan's corruption, the sworn enemy of civilization.
Its sudden disappearance would inevitably attract attention.
Thinking of it that way, it wasn't so strange after all.
Ray subconsciously glanced at the Tacet Mark on the back of his hand, his tone cool. "I have no comment."
He knew nothing about the Black Shores organization and wasn't willing to gamble on how they might act upon learning of Anby's existence and unique nature.
No matter what, he absolutely did not want to see Anby confined in a laboratory, reduced to a manipulated research subject.
"Mr. Ray may have some misunderstanding about the Black Shores." Isidora's voice remained calm. "We are fundamentally different from organizations like the Fractsidus. The Black Shores has always upheld the principles of civilization and freedom and would never force anyone against their will."
She leaned forward slightly, her tone sincere. "Why don't we find a quiet place for a detailed conversation? Even if you don't wish to join, as fellow members of civilization, we should still contribute to our shared future. Regarding the truth behind the Dark Tide's disappearance... I hope you'll consider it carefully."
"The Fractsidus? What's that?" He whispered to Lupa.
Lupa whispered back, "Seems to be some kind of evil organization."
Ray nodded with partial understanding before addressing Isidora. "Regarding this matter, I need some time to consider. Besides... this isn't a decision I can make alone. The Dark Tide's disappearance is indeed related to me, but it's not solely my affair. Next time we meet, I'll give you an answer."
With that, he took Lupa's arm and left the area.
Isidora watched their receding figures, letting out a soft, involuntary sigh.
Even though she had mentally prepared herself, the feeling of being rejected still didn't sit well.
"But at least it's confirmed for now that he isn't an enemy."
"However..."
"A strong individual capable of defeating the Dark Tide."
Isidora murmured softly, a fleeting image blooming in her mind.
"Perhaps someone like Camellya would be interested in someone like him?"
"Should I... ask her to give it a try?"
"Mmm, that's what I'll do."