Chapter 454


    “Your friend has likely possessed the artifact for a while now,” Skr exined gravely.”


    Unfortunately, it’s toote to save him. The artifact can only be destroyed after his passing.


    Destroying it now would be fatal.”


    She, too, desired to save him, but the window of opportunity had closed. His friend had unknowingly


    sacrificed himself through prolonged contact with the artifact.


    The weight of the situation pressed down on Alexander. With a heavy sigh, he conceded, ” Alright.”


    John, whispering to Joe, expressed his worry, “Aren’t you concerned about being affected?”


    Joe, ever nonchnt, replied coolly, “Worried? I’m with Skr every day.”


    John internally cursed his question. Was it a subtle brag or a genuine expression of their


    rtionship? Regardless, it was enviable.


    Recognizing the potential benefits of a good rtionship with Skr, John, a shrewd strategist,


    formted a n. He recalled Steven’s employment at a techpany he had invested in. Rumors


    of funding shortages reached his ears.


    John decided to call thepany’s head honcho tomorrow. After all, building good rtionships


    was always a wise investment for the future.


    Meanwhile, Alexander arranged for the artifact’s return and nned to visit his friend in the next


    couple of days.


    cwn if you carry it with you, it will help wand off the effects of this artifact datke sure y Apered the


    time in the sunlight the month, the influence of the brande gefact will bade within a month. Watch


    your diet and try not to get sick


    Skr possessed a stockpile of these amulets, courtesy of Vi. While Skr could craft them


    herself, Vi had instructed her that creating them for others was restricted by certain conditions–


    she couldn’t create them for others unless the timing was right.


    After her rebirth, Skr received a letter from Vi indicating that the time hade. However,


    hesitant to take unnecessary risks with Alexander, she opted to give him one of Vi’s pre–made


    amulets.


    John, rubbing his nose, hesitantly inquired, “What about us?” Though young, he wasn’t eager for a


    shortened lifespan or even a sniffle.


    Caleb, unconcerned, focused solely on Alexander’s well–being.


    Joe, a silent observer with one hand in his pocket, watched Skr handle the situation. In these


    moments, she seemed to radiate an undeniable charm.


    Skr addressed John’s concern. “Mr. Gardner, you’ll face minimal effects. Prioritize outdoor


    activities and rest well. Nightmares might ur asionally, but they’re nothing serious. I can


    create amulets for you and Caleb.”


    Caleb puffed out his chest, a young man brimming with bravado. “Just nightmares? That’s a breeze!


    A man like me fears nothing!”


    His courage far surpassed John’s, who responded with a stern look. “This blockhead!”


    Skr, relieved, retrieved two pre–made amulets from her bag. “Here, take these for now.”


    Turning to Alexander, she exined, “Mr. Gardner Senior, this artifact is attuned to its owner and


    must be returned.” Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    “Return it?” Alexander’s brow furrowed. How could he return something that might cost his


    friend’s life?