After going over the plan once more with Odian and the others, Nina confirmed that everything was in order. They decided to explore the city lord’s residence the next day.

She carefully put away the map when Little Bun’s cheerful voice rang out in her mind. "Host, the jammer you requested is ready. Once you wear it, Yosan shouldn’t be able to track your location anymore."

Relief flickered across Nina’s face. "Thank you, Little Bun."

Thinking ahead to tomorrow, she asked, "Does the system store have anything that can protect everyone or boost combat ability?"

Little Bun quickly checked. "For protection, shields are your best option. As for combat, there are plenty of weapons available now, both heavy and light, capable of dealing with beasts below the tenth rank."

It paused, then added, "There are also enhancement crystals that can increase strength. If needed, you can purchase those too. Most attributes are available."

Nina’s eyes lit up. That would significantly improve their chances.

She browsed the recommendations and bought a large number of shields, portable weapons, and various crystals.

Since she would be heading into the city lord’s residence tomorrow, the children would have to remain behind. It was best to prepare in advance.

Nina gathered everyone and began distributing the items. "Yosan already knows our location. We don’t know when he’ll act, so I’m giving everyone these in advance."

She explained each item carefully and demonstrated how to use them.

The males found it hard to believe that something so small could harm beasts below the tenth rank, but they trusted Nina completely and asked no questions.

As for where these items came from, no one pressed her. Every beast had their own secrets. Perhaps it was some rare ability.

Nina handed a batch of crystals to Odian. "These can enhance strength. I’ll leave them with Odian. Later, take what suits your attributes. Everyone will get some."

The males were visibly excited.

Crystals were extremely valuable, yet Nina gave them out so generously, along with shields and weapons. Gratitude swelled in their hearts, and they silently resolved to serve her even more faithfully.

After Odian distributed the crystals, Nina called her mates into the room.

She gave them additional shields and weapons. "The children will stay here. Take these and make sure both you and the children stay safe."

"We will," they assured her. "You be careful tomorrow too."

They turned to Aviel. "You’d better protect Nina well. If she loses even a single hair, you’re finished."

Aviel pulled Nina into his arms. "Of course. Even if it costs my life, I’ll protect her."

Nina covered his mouth lightly. "Don’t say things like that. We’re just scouting, not fighting. Nothing will happen."

He smiled and kissed her hand. "I know. I’m just telling them I’ll take good care of you."

After distributing the equipment, everyone returned to rest.

That night, Nina slept with the children again, with Sal and Kith staying by her side. Dian’s bonding was postponed.

***

The next morning, Nina set out.

She originally planned to carry both Aviel and Idir in her pocket, but Aviel refused to share the space with Idir and insisted on coiling around her wrist instead.

Nina sighed but indulged him.

Idir said nothing and remained quietly in her pocket.

With her form concealed, Nina led them through the eastern gate and into the city lord’s residence.

At the same time, Lina was finally allowed to leave the residence.

After much consideration the previous night, Yosan summoned both Zena and Setan that morning.

Zena arrived first. Seeing Yosan, she smiled alluringly. "Great Shaman, you called for me?"

"How far have you progressed with those males?" Yosan asked.

At that moment, Nina had just reached the main hall. Hearing his voice, she quietly concealed herself nearby, listening.

"They’ve already begun to lower their guard and developed some interest in me," Zena replied smoothly. "I’ve also befriended Nina. If there’s anything you wish to know, I may be able to gather information for you."

Yosan’s expression darkened slightly. "So slow? When exactly will you take them down?"

Zena remained calm. "It will take a few more days. Those males are extremely powerful. My ability has far less effect on them, so naturally it won’t be quick."

Yosan considered this and found her reasoning acceptable, so he did not press further.

After a moment of thought, he said, "Find out whether Nina possesses anything unusual, something related to sorcery."

There had to be something on Nina that could counter his witchcraft. Otherwise, she wouldn’t have been able to disrupt it again and again.

"Understood," Zena replied. "Is there anything else you want me to investigate?"

"Look into the abilities and weaknesses of the males around her. Report everything to me in detail," Yosan replied.

Those powerful males were troublesome.

"No problem," Zena answered smoothly.

Yosan continued, "When you met Nina, did you see a serpent male with black markings near his eyes?"

Zena shook her head. "No."

Yosan frowned. Had the teng snake concealed the cursed markings? Or was he simply not with Nina?

He then thought of Setan, whom he was about to meet. "And the male staying in the eastern district. How is your progress with him?"

"It’s progressing fairly well..." Zena began.

Before she could finish, a male at the door reported, "Great Shaman, the male you summoned has arrived."

Yosan glanced toward the entrance. "Let him in."

Setan entered shortly after. When he saw Zena, his expression did not change. He walked past her without a glance.

Zena’s heart jolted.

Why was he connected to Yosan?

Her fingers curled slightly, stiff with tension. He had been there that day. Would he expose her?

Nina, hidden nearby, was equally surprised. 𝓯𝓻𝓮𝙚𝙬𝓮𝙗𝒏𝙤𝒗𝙚𝙡.𝒄𝒐𝓶

Why was Setan here? He seemed like a principled male. Why would he be involved with Yosan?

"Have you decided on the three tasks?" Setan asked directly.

"Yes. The first task is for you to help me deal with a group of beasts. They live directly opposite you," Yosan said.

Setan’s gaze sharpened.

He wants me to deal with Nina?

The realization struck instantly, but just as quickly, he made his decision.

"How do you want me to help?" Setan asked calmly.

He needed to understand Yosan’s plan first, then find a way to warn Nina afterward.

As for his brother, he would think of another way.

A flicker of guilt passed through him, but he could not bring himself to harm Nina or stand against her.

If he openly opposed Yosan now, the shaman would never help him again.

Zena’s heart skipped.

Was this male actually agreeing to help Yosan deal with Nina?

Didn’t he like Nina? Had she misjudged him?

She subtly stepped back toward the door, ready to flee at any moment.

If he truly sided with Yosan, he might expose her. She needed to escape and warn Nina if possible.

"I’ll inform you when the time comes. You only need to show up and assist," Yosan said.

There was no way he would reveal his full plan to an outsider.

"Then notify me early," Setan replied coolly. "If I’m not there in time, that’s your problem. I’ll still consider the task fulfilled."

He looked at Yosan. "Tell me the other two tasks as well."

If they also involved Nina, he needed to know.

If they did, he might still have a chance to warn her in advance.