Chapter 138

Aria Bennett had just ended the call, her fingers lingering on the phone screen. She turned to Damian Cross beside her and recounted the Rhodes family's situation.

Damian's brow furrowed slightly as his long fingers tapped rhythmically against the table. "The Prices would dare use such underhanded methods?" His voice was low, edged with coldness.

"I'll report this to the Special Response Division and the Arcane Society immediately," he added, a sharp glint flashing in his eyes.

Aria blinked. "Arcane Society?" The name was unfamiliar to her.

Noticing her confusion, Damian patiently explained, "It's the authoritative organization in the metaphysical arts, founded by masters from both Taoist and Buddhist traditions."

He took a sip of tea. "Beyond academic exchange, they assist official agencies in handling supernatural cases."

Aria's eyes brightened. "That sounds fascinating."

The corner of Damian's mouth lifted. "With your abilities, it won't be long before they extend an invitation." He paused. "The society exists to maintain order in our field."

Their conversation was interrupted by a soft knock at the private room's door.

Malcolm Rhodes entered but froze mid-step upon seeing Damian. Surprise flickered across his face before he bowed respectfully. "Master Aria, Mr. Cross."

Aria noted how Malcolm's demeanor toward Damian was unusually deferential, almost reverent. It only deepened her curiosity about Damian's background.

"Mr. Rhodes," Damian acknowledged with a nod, his posture relaxed.

Malcolm ventured cautiously, "I didn't realize you two were acquainted?"

"Friends," Damian replied succinctly, making Malcolm's eyes gleam with sudden understanding.

Aria smoothly redirected the conversation. "Mr. Rhodes, did you bring what we discussed?"

Malcolm hastily produced an exquisite necklace. Aria accepted it, retrieving a sheet of talisman paper from her bag. Her fingers moved deftly as she inscribed a sigil.

"Have the person being followed wear this," she instructed, handing him the completed talisman. "And switch out your surveillance team."

Malcolm accepted it like a priceless treasure. "Thank you, Master Aria." With practiced tact, he excused himself. "I won't intrude further."

Once Malcolm departed, Aria arched a brow at Damian. "You know him?"

"We've crossed paths at family gatherings," Damian dismissed lightly.

Afternoon sunlight streamed through the car windows as Damian turned the steering wheel. "How's the script coming along?"

Aria lifted her chin confidently. "I've thoroughly analyzed the female lead's character."

Damian glanced at her, amusement dancing in his eyes. "I've always had faith in you."

The car eventually stopped before a traditional courtyard house. At the stone table in the yard, a vigorous middle-aged man sipped tea.

"You're here," Director Alistair Grant said, his piercing gaze assessing Aria.

Damian made introductions. "Director Grant, this is Aria Bennett."

"An honor," Aria greeted with poised courtesy. She hadn't expected Damian's promised audition to be for Alistair Grant's new production.

The director set down his teacup, giving Damian a meaningful look. "Anyone personally recommended by Mr. Cross deserves close consideration."

Ginkgo leaves rustled overhead as if bearing witness. Drawing a steadying breath, Aria knew—her opportunity had arrived.