窃情谋欲

Lucy followed the Grandmaster as he led her to a small chamber within the Judicial building. The chamber was filled with various artifacts and symbols of the Holy Church. At the center of the room stood a round crystal globe, emanating a soft, ethereal light.

The Grandmaster gestured for Lucy to approach the crystal globe. "This is a special communication device, something far more advanced," he explained. "It allows us to contact the church directly. Place your hands on the globe and focus your thoughts on the globe alone."

Lucy nodded, understanding her task. She walked up to the crystal globe and gently rested her hands on its smooth surface. Closing her eyes, she concentrated on reaching out to the Holy Church, visualizing the image of a spiteful young nun in her mind.

After a few moments of deep concentration, the crystal globe glowed brighter, and a faint humming sound filled the room. Suddenly, a holographic image appeared above the globe, revealing the face of the young nun.

Lucy stared at the crystal globe, preparing herself for the conversation with the young nun. The holographic image materialized, and the spiteful nun appeared before her, wearing a disapproving scowl.

"Oh, it's you again," the nun sneered. "What do you want this time?"

Lucy smirked, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Ah, Sister Madelyn, always a pleasure to see your radiant face. I must say, your charm is truly unmatched."

Sister Madelyn's scowl deepened. "Cut the flattery, Lucy. You're wasting my time."

Lucy leaned in closer, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "Oh, but Sister Madelyn, I thought you enjoyed wasting time. Isn't that what you do best, aside from your impressive collection of scowls?"

The nun's nostrils flared in irritation. "I have important duties to attend to. Speak quickly and get to the point."

Lucy feigned innocence, her voice dripping with faux concern. "Oh, my apologies. I forgot how precious your time is, attending to those oh-so-crucial tasks like polishing your halo and perfecting your scolding techniques."

Sister Madelyn's eyes narrowed, her patience wearing thin. "Enough of your insolence. Speak, or I will end this conversation."

Lucy chuckled, thoroughly enjoying the nun's discomfort. "Very well, Sister Madelyn. Straight to business, then. The Four Border City is under attack, and we require the assistance of the Holy Church to purify the area and drive out the undead menace."

The nun crossed her arms, a defiant glint in her eyes. "And why should we lend our aid to the Grand Magic Judiciary? You've always had a knack for stirring up trouble, Lucy."

Lucy leaned back, her grin widening. "Ah, Sister Madelyn, your wit is as sharp as ever. But let's not forget that the Holy Church has always relied on the Grand Magic Judiciary's protection. Without us, those pristine robes of yours would be nothing more than targets for those abominations."I think you should take a look at

Sister Madelyn's face flushed with anger. "How dare you! The Holy Church has its own responsibilities and duties. We are not your personal army."

Lucy leaned closer, her tone lowering to a sly whisper. "Oh, Sister Madelyn, don't be coy. We both know that the Holy Church has always had a soft spot for grand entrances and dramatic rescues. And what better opportunity than now? The world is watching, and the Holy Church wouldn't want to tarnish its impeccable reputation, would it?"

The nun's eyes flickered with uncertainty, a battle between pride and practicality raging within her. "Fine," she grumbled. "We will send a team to assist you, but don't think this means we owe you anything."

Lucy's grin widened triumphantly. "Of course not, Sister Madelyn. We are forever grateful for the Holy Church's timely intervention. Just think of it as another chance for you to bask in the glory of being a heroic savior."

With that, the holographic image of the nun disappeared, leaving Lucy standing alone with the crystal globe. She couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. Manipulating the situation to her advantage was a skill she had honed over the years, and it had served her well once again.

Leaving the chamber, Lucy stepped outside the Judicial building and was met with a surprising sight. The building was encased in a large, shimmering shield, emanating a protective aura. Standing beside the shield was the Grandmaster himself, his eyes focused and his hands outstretched, channeling his magic to maintain the barrier.

Undead creatures, with their glowing blue eyes and twisted forms, attempted to approach the building but were repelled by the shield. They disintegrated upon contact with its protective energy, their bodies turning to dust and fading away.

Lucy watched in awe as the Grandmaster displayed his power and resolve. His frail form seemed to radiate strength, and his determination to protect their city was evident in every fiber of his being.

She approached the Grandmaster, a mix of admiration and concern in her voice. "Grandmaster, this shield... It's incredible. How long can you maintain it?"

The Grandmaster smiled wearily, sweat glistening on his brow. "As long as I must," he replied. "I may be old, but my will is unwavering. I will protect this city and its people with everything I have. We can stretch this and cover the entire city but for that, we need time and the help of the sun."

Lucy's admiration for the Grandmaster deepened. She understood now why he was revered as the leader of the Grand Magic Judiciary. His unwavering dedication and selflessness were qualities to be admired and emulated.

Together, they stood in front of the shield, their eyes fixed on the battle raging beyond its protective barrier. The city may have been under attack, but Lucy felt a renewed sense of hope. With the Grandmaster's leadership and the combined efforts of the Grand Magic Judiciary, the Holy Church, and their allies, there was a chance to reclaim their city and restore its former glory.

For in the face of darkness, they would emerge as beacons of light, pushing back the shadows and ensuring that the Four Border City would once again shine brightly as a symbol of hope, strength, and unwavering defiance.