"Mr. Ronald, here's the situation—"

Having previously interacted in Springs, Fanny roughly understood Ronald's personality. So she took the initiative to sit in front of Ronald, and the witch began her purpose for appearing before him as soon as she greeted him.

"In fact, the headquarters of our [Twelve Witches Coven] is located in the country of Ariny, sharing the governance of the mysterious side of this region with the [Dawn Spell Society] for a century."

"This morning, my teacher heard the news that the Gerald Fleet had arrived at the port, and then sent me to extend an invitation, hoping you could meet her."

"Your teacher…" Ronald immediately understood who the real inviter was, "Could it be that the Great Witch Theresa is actually in Carpine now?"

"Yes." Fanny nodded slightly, then said seriously, "Mr. Ronald, my teacher instructed me not to hide any information from you—inviting you this time is likely to entrust you with a rather important matter."

"Entrust me with something…"

Upon hearing Fanny's response, Ronald reached out to scratch his head.

Before setting off, he knew this voyage would surely encounter many incidents.

But he hadn't expected that in just two weeks, he would encounter situations that required his intervention, both at sea and in the first port city.

However, after all, this invitation was extended by the Great Witch Theresa herself.

Recalling the favor she had shown him in the past, regardless of what task the Great Witch intended to entrust him with, the opportunity to meet her should at least be given.

"In that case, let's set off right after dinner."

"But please do have someone inform the fleet, as someone like me not returning to the ship at night might lead to misunderstandings or unexpected incidents."

Fanny naturally nodded immediately to assure:

"Mr. Ronald, that certainly won't be a problem!"

"..."

After enjoying dinner,

Ronald and his two companions, led by Fanny, headed southward into the city of Carpine.

After merely an hour's walk,

they arrived at the local branch of the [Twelve Witches Coven].

Presumably to adapt to the new world order, the branch of the [Twelve Witches Coven] in Carpine was evidently a recently renovated building. Moreover, the sign at the entrance of this sizable three-story theater conspicuously bore a dazzling and grand message: [In a Dream, the Witch Guides Your Fate].

"As expected of the [Twelve Witches Coven], even a single branch occupies such an imposing building."

Ronald couldn't help but praise the building before him.

It was not only a gesture of friendly courtesy but also genuine admiration.

After all, this wasn't Gerald!

A spacious three-story theater like this is indeed a rare luxury in the city of Carpine, and it wouldn't be an exaggeration to call it a standout. The fact that the [Twelve Witches Coven] could secure this place for their branch undoubtedly showcases their power in this country.

In response to Ronald's compliment, Fanny also smiled appreciatively:

"Mr. Ronald, you're too kind."

"Although our [Twelve Witches Coven] has some capability in Ariny, it also depends on with whom we're being compared."

Speaking of which, Fanny couldn't help but glance in the direction of the port:

"For instance, those three steamships docked at the port; if they came to occupy this city, it's likely the practitioners here would flee headlong without a word."

Ronald immediately reassured:

"How could that be possible? The fleet set sail to exterminate the remnants of the [Nine Commandments Covent], with no malice toward any normal country or force."

"..."

While chatting, the four of them continued moving inside the theater.

This building still retained the various functions of a former theater, but its users were now vastly different from its past performers.

Some evidently experienced witches took to the stages in the auditoriums, acting as lecturers and promoters, conveying the abilities and philosophies of their respective schools to the audience below, thereby recruiting more people to join their ranks.

Seeing this scene, Ronald felt quite touched at heart.

In this era, the recreational facilities of ordinary people, even nobility, probably weren't as developed as modern society, and this enormous and luxurious theater certainly represented the pinnacle of enjoyment and entertainment in the city of Carpine.

By taking over this space, the [Twelve Witches Coven],

the most immediate impact is that those holding wealth and power, recalling their previous theater experiences, are very likely to come for a glance. And once such individuals witness the abilities of a Caster firsthand...

It would be only natural for them to become swayed.

The scenes further confirmed Ronald's assumptions.

Several independent large rooms and practice studios within the theater had been modified by the witches. The newcomers who formally chose to join their school received further teachings in esoteric knowledge here, including segments where spells were taught.

This essentially reflects the current trajectory of this world.

In older and more feudal nations, those in power might have hoarded their strength, thereby consolidating their position.

But a world already witnessing the emergence of nations like Gerald,

The capabilities that an industrialized country possesses are quite apparent. Whether in the mysterious sphere or among ordinary people, once they perceive the power stemming from this progress, anyone with even a little foresight to see crises would understand how to make their choice.

The [Twelve Witches Coven] aptly exemplifies such cases.

And once the restrictions on the dissemination of spells are lifted...

Just like what Ronald saw before his eyes now, the knowledge dissemination systems within the mysterious sphere expanded rapidly. Once the majority learned some of the basic spells, the entire world would likely face new developments and opportunities.

The world is undergoing a massive transformation, and no one can foresee its future course.

"..."

"Mr. Ronald, turn left ahead."

Leading in front, Fanny naturally noticed Ronald's persistent glances around within the theater.

However, this witch seemed quite pleased to see such a situation.

She even deliberately slowed down in leading at the front, allowing Ronald to wander around the theater for nearly a quarter-hour before they finally reached their destination for this visit.

At this moment, the room before the four was once the theater manager's office.

After the [Twelve Witches Coven] took over this theater, the most well-positioned office logically became the working place for the branch leader, namely, the Great Witch Theresa.

Arriving here, Fanny took two light knocks on the door.

When the voice inviting guests in emerged from the room, she immediately pushed the door open.

Swish—

The outside light shone through the office window.

In this last light of the approaching evening, Ronald saw the long-seen Great Witch Theresa.

Currently, this had been seated in a rocking chair.

While lighting a candle several meters away single-handedly, Theresa beckoned Ronald with a kindly look.

"Mr. Ronald, long time no see."