CHAPTER 104: THE CHOOSING!

At that, Rin’s crimson eyes narrowed, then gleamed with something dangerous—a spark of anticipation, of hunger. He broke the seal and scanned the elegant script, his lips curling into a slow, predatory grin. "...Interesting."

He handed the letter to Lirien, who scanned it quickly, her brow furrowing.

"You’re actually thinking of going?" she asked, her voice tight with concern.

"I have to go," Rin said, his voice dropping to a whisper, sharp and resolute. "I need to see what those Vortellion bastards are planning."

"I’m coming with you," Lirien said firmly, her eyes blazing with determination.

Rin smirked, a flicker of amusement breaking through his intensity.

"Fine. The game’s a week from now. Until then... I’ll play by your rules."

Lirien rolled her eyes, shoving her pipe between her lips again. "Then start with your next appointment. Two days. Don’t forget."

Rin gave a long-suffering sigh and brushed past her, leaving the room. Alone, Lirien let out a shaky exhale, her shoulders slumping. She wasn’t afraid Rin would kill someone—they could always cover that up. What terrified her was the idea of him stepping outside these walls. His beauty, his power, his defiance... they were dangerous enough to spark a war. And with the Vortellions circling, that war might be closer than she feared.

.

The next morning, the brothel was quieter, the aftermath of the gunshot lingering like a shadow. Rin sat in the kitchen with Lia, Soren, and Kiro, a tray of bread and fruit between them. The room smelled of fresh-baked dough and strong tea, a rare moment of calm in the chaos of the Pleasure District. But Rin’s mind was anything but calm. The Vortellion invitation burned in his thoughts, its words a lure and a threat.

Lia pushed a cup of tea toward him, her red hair tied back, her eyes searching.

"You’re too quiet," she said, her voice soft but firm. "What’s going on in that head of yours?"

Rin took the cup, his fingers brushing hers. A faint flicker of Memory Echo sparked, but he pushed it down... he didn’t need to see her worries right now.

"Just thinking," he said, sipping the tea. "The Vortellions invited me to their ’game’. It’s a trap, but it’s also a chance."

Soren leaned forward, his scar twisting as he frowned.

"A chance for what? To get yourself killed? You know what that bastard Evan did to you last time."

Rin’s jaw tightened, his fingers gripping the cup.

"I’m not the same kid I was two years ago. I’ve got Memory Echo, and I’m going to use it to tear them apart."

Kiro, sitting cross-legged on the floor, looked up, his eyes wide.

"What is Memory Echo?" he asked, his voice small but curious.

Rin hesitated, his gaze flicking to Lia and Soren. He hadn’t told them the full truth about his skill, but they deserved to know something.

"It’s just a trick," he said carefully. "I can see pieces of people’s memories when I touch them. Things they’ve done, things they know. It’s how I’ve been staying ahead of Vortellion spies."

Lia’s eyes widened, her mouth parting slightly.

"That’s how you knew about the guard who tried to sell Kiro?"

Rin nodded, his lips twitching into a smirk.

"Yeah. I touched his hand, saw him deal with a noble. Got him blacklisted before he could try anything."

Soren whistled low, leaning back in his chair.

"That’s some trick. You’re like a walking spy."

"It’s not perfect," Rin admitted, his voice quieter. "It messes with my head sometimes. Too many memories cause too much pain. But it’s going to help me bring down Lucien... and Evan."

Kiro tugged at Rin’s sleeve, his eyes shining with admiration.

"You’re gonna beat them, right? Like you saved that courtesan last night?"

Rin ruffled Kiro’s hair, his expression softening.

"Yeah, kid. I’m gonna try. But I need you guys to keep your eyes open. If the Vortellions are watching the brothel, we can’t let our guard down."

Lia nodded, her face set with determination. "We’ve got your back, Rin. Always."

Soren grinned, cracking his knuckles. "Let’s make those bastards regret ever stepping into our house."

Rin’s chest warmed, a rare flicker of hope cutting through his anger. These people he met two years ago... Lia, Soren, Kiro... they weren’t just allies. They were family to him, the kind he’d never had growing up in this world. And he’d do anything to protect them.

Two Days Later... It was time for the Golden Goose’s Game

The brothel was alive like a festival, its main hall transformed into a glittering arena. Red lanterns swayed overhead, casting a warm glow over the crowd of nobles, merchants, and commoners, all vying for entertainment and a glimpse of the legendary Golden Goose. Music filled the air... lutes and flutes weaving a lively melody... while laughter and clinking glasses created a chaotic symphony. The scent of perfume and wine was thick, almost suffocating, but it fueled the energy of the night.

Rin stood backstage, his white robe shimmering under the dim light, his half-mask concealing his face. He adjusted the fabric, ensuring his silver hair was tucked away, his crimson eyes hidden in shadow. The Vortellion invitation was still on his mind, but tonight, he had a role to play... the Golden Goose, the omega who commanded the capital’s desires.

Lia slipped beside him, her own costume sparkling with beads.

"You ready?" she whispered, her voice steady but laced with worry.

Rin smirked, though his heart raced.

"I’ve been ready. Just keep an eye on the crowd. If you see anyone with a Vortellion crest, let me know. They’ve been trying to infiltrate the building. This will be the perfect time for them to enter,"

Soren joined them, his dagger hidden under his loose tunic.

"Already spotted a few knights near the back," he murmured. "They’re not wearing crests, but I know their type. They are stiff, too watchful and not interested in the courtesans,"

Rin’s jaw tightened, but he nodded.

"Good. Stay sharp. If Lucien’s here, I’ll find him."

Kiro peeked out from behind a curtain, his small face pale. "Rin, what if they recognise you?"

"They won’t," Rin said, his voice firm. "Not with the mask. And if they do..." He patted the gun hidden in his robe, its weight a comforting reminder. "I’ll handle it."

Lia grabbed his arm, her grip tight.

"Don’t do anything stupid, okay? We still need you."

Rin met her gaze, his expression softening.

"I won’t. Promise."