The competition for the position of the Head of Devouring is evidently a crucial juncture... That position is still too far from my reach, and I must not aim too high. However, it is essential to seize as much as I need from this struggle.
Simply staying in the office of Garden will yield nothing—therefore, even if Miss Rhine cancels the original plan, I must become Mr. Ansel's traveling secretary.
This is the only bargaining chip that allows me to negotiate with it.
As long as I can follow Mr. Ansel to the Western lands, whether it is to increase Miss Rhine's influence or to disclose Shadewell's actions to it, it is not an issue. Moreover, if I apply in my own name, it will not have any negative impact on Ms. Rhine.
The only problem is, how can I successfully apply in my own name...?
Without relying on the connection with Seraphina, Mr. Ansel has no reason to accept my application unless I can demonstrate sufficient value.