'Not the first time losing, you say?'
Lloyd couldn't help but scoff inwardly.
'The butler might have described this 'price' in a lighthearted way and told him not to be nervous, but the actual loss probably isn't as trivial as he made it sound. This is a ritual for a Tier Seven to advance to the Eighth Tier, after all.'
He continued to ask,
"So, what I need to do is act as a 'reader,' do my best to crack the Stories of the other two powerhouses, find their flaws, and ensure you are the ultimate victor?"
"Yes. While it won't be easy, I believe you can do it. You're a kid who has never let anyone down."
The butler nodded.
Lloyd thought for a moment more. He realized the importance of his role as a 'reader' in this ritual and immediately understood why the butler had taken an interest in a small fry like him two months ago and wanted to bring him on board.
He had, after all, successfully cracked one of the butler's Stories back then, demonstrating his aptitude in this area.
