Chapter 763
Chapter 763:
Noticing her skepticism, Ashton explained, “These ancient artifacts have been around for centuries. They’re often called ‘Glorious Heritage.’ Countless figures throughout history have tapped into their powers, each paying a steep price. Take, for instance, a famous musician who sacrificed his hearing for unparalleled talent, or an emperor mocked for his height but renowned for his unrivaled rule. These weren’t just quirks of fate; they were the costs tied to these artifacts. Each of these items grants unique abilities but demands an equally unique sacrifice. Modern science can’t begin to explain them, which is why they’re kept hidden and hoarded by governments and secret organizations for research. For ordinary people, the chance of encountering one is very slim.”
He paused, shifting his gaze to Leonardo and Hamlin. His expression turned cold, calculating. “But the idea that an entire region suffered a disaster just so the three of you could rise to fortune? That’s a bitter pill to swallow.”
Ashton’s mind briefly wandered to the Figueroa brothers.
According to Malcom, the village where the Figueroa brothers were born had been completely wiped out by that natural disaster, leaving only the three of them as survivors.
The thought lingered in Ashton’s mind. How many others had faced similar fates, entire communities erased so that a few individuals could gain extraordinary power?
Leonardo and Hamlin sat before him, their expressions heavy with guilt.
Leonardo broke the silence, his voice tinged with regret. “We never imagined a wish like that could actually come true, especially at such a devastating cost. We’ve been trying to ease our conscience ever since, funding countless charity projects to make amends.”
Hamlin leaned forward, his tone urgent. “Mr. Baldwin, as much as we regret the past, you need to focus on Stephen. He approached us a while back, wanting to use our treasures against you. We refused him, but now they’re gone. We’re convinced Stephen stole them, and we’re worried he’s planning to use them against you.”
Ashton’s brow furrowed in skepticism. “Why did you turn him down? And why are you telling me this now?”
Let your imagination soar with gαℓησν𝒆𝓁s．çο𝗺
Leonardo met Ashton’s gaze and said honestly, “We didn’t want to get tangled in his mess. These treasures demand a price, and we have no idea what using them again might cost, not to mention the thirty-two-year cooldown period of these treasures. At our age, we might not even live long enough to use them again if we miss this chance. Why waste such a rare opportunity on some petty grudge? It’s not worth it.”
Hamlin nodded, though a touch of embarrassment colored his face at Leonardo’s bluntness. “That’s the truth. Right now, though, Stephen has the three items. He has fallen out with us because we refused to use the treasures against you. Frustrated, we decided to come to you for a plan.”
Leonardo’s and Hamlin’s reasons seemed somewhat self-centered. Ashton had hoped to revise his view of the two, yet he ended up confirming his original thoughts. However, strangely, their self-centered justifications lent credibility to their stories.
Ashton found this information somewhat helpful, yet it was not completely satisfying.
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