Silence filled the chamber.

  They were offering me **a job as their personal enforcer.**

  It was tempting.

  Being in the church’s favor would **give me more power and resources.**

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  But it also meant walking on an even **thinner tightrope.**

  I smirked. **"And what do I get out of this?"**

  The cardinal scowled. **"You dare ask for compensation—"**

  Aurelia raised a hand, silencing him.

  She looked at me **thoughtfully.**

  **"A pardon. And access to restricted church archives. The ones that contain… forbidden magic and lost relics."**

  I **stilled.**

  That was valuable.

  I leaned back. **"Sounds interesting."**

  Aurelia’s lips curled into a small smile. **"Then we have a deal?"**

  I extended my hand. **"Sure. Let’s have some fun."**

  Our hands clasped.

  The **Holy Church** and **Eclipse** were now both using me as their secret weapon.

  But the truth?

  I was the one **using them.**

  ---