Chapter 130-2
Edited by: Kanaa-senpai
”This is confidential, so keep your voice down.”
”Understood.”
As I indicated my comprehension of the Viscount’s words, he introduced himself in return.
”I am the head of the Gavrett household, Molder Gavrett. My daughter has been in your care; I offer my thanks.”
He was a gentlemanly figure, not at all outdone by the master of the ‘Moonlight Pavilion,’ bowing his head in genuine gratitude for the matter involving Iris.
Regardless of status, having the right demeanor isn’t a bad thing, but… right now, I’m in a bit of a strange mood.
The reason lies in this room, which seems fit for a Viscount’s office.
It’s clear that guests do come here, as evidenced by the sofas and tables arranged, and the assembly of the Gavrett women.
Iris is recognizable with her smile, but Ms. Elina and Ms. Alicia sit with expressions that suggest the matter is settled.
Ms. Alicia, though her limbs have healed, should still be somewhat weakened by the aftereffects of her prior condition.
I might have my doubts about her walking around yesterday, but it would be odd for me, a stranger, to be surprised.
So, I’ll let it slide.
Allowing him to bow his head in front of his wife and daughter is one thing, but from a dignified standpoint… it feels a bit regrettable.
So, I decide to introduce myself promptly and move the conversation along.
”I’m Koji, an adventurer. No need to stand on ceremony.”
At this, the Viscount lifts his gaze, appraising me, then gestures for me to take a seat on the sofa.
”…I see. Well, there’s more to discuss than just the reward. Please, have a seat.”
”Yes, um…”
Glancing over at the indicated seat, I find 4 sofas arranged around the table, with Ms. Elina and the two daughters seated separately on either side.
Assuming the Viscount will take the empty seat at the back, I sit at the front, and he follows, taking a seat at the head of the table.
”First, I’d like to confirm a few things. Is that all right?”
”Yes.”
”Alright then…”
* * *
He starts by asking about how I met Iris, and I proceed to recount the tale up to obtaining the charm to break the spell.
All I can say is I just happened to get my hands on that talisman by chance.
There’s no other reason, really.
But apparently, that’s just a preamble ── because the Viscount looks uncomfortable and starts probing me.
”Well, given the circumstances, meeting Siera and getting that magic item was pure luck, wasn’t it? So… what’s the deal with Siera? Anything more than that?”
Oh, so that’s why he’s asking ── to confirm that.
Considering what happened to Ms. Alicia, if her marriage was sabotaged, then maybe they’re now after Iris.
This is dangerous.
If a common adventurer lays a hand on a noble’s daughter, that’s something a noble can’t just overlook.
And as her father, if I’m exploiting her weakness, that’s just as unforgivable.
I knew they’d press for answers.
But proving I have nothing to hide?
That’s impossible ── so I’ve got no choice but to bluff.
”Not much, honestly. We only just met. But I heard a few people got burned with magic before I even reached Dungeon City.”
”Yeah… that’s about right.”
The Viscount nods lightly ── he’s heard this from her directly, too ── and he keeps talking.
”But listen… since you’re on our side, and if you pressed her, Siera couldn’t have refused. Yet, you’re telling me you don’t feel a thing for her? You really mean that?”
”I only recently inquired about her origins. But even before that, I suspected she had a rare, possibly dangerous background ── especially given her connection to that shady Lyle and his company. I didn’t want to dig too deep.”
”Guh.”
Iris’ face twisted with discomfort at my words.
I want her to hand over whatever she’s after if she’s that close──but I can’t tell her what it is.
That’s the problem.
If she won’t reveal what she’s after, then she’s likely to claim ownership of whatever valuable or useful thing I’ve managed to get, while I’m just celebrating my haul.
And any group that’d accept someone like that?
Probably just the sort of thugs only interested in bodies, not morals.
So… maybe that’s why the Viscount suspects I’m one of *those* types ── because I helped her.
Maybe he’s questioning if I’m just another opportunist.
That’s frankly insulting.
I don’t usually turn people down if they’re my type, unless I’ve got a good reason.
But that’s only if they’re the ones asking me out.
Well, Iris saw right through me and ended up forcing me to cooperate.
Otherwise, I’d have kept my distance without getting too involved.
”…”
The viscount fell silent for a moment after my reply.
He seemed… a bit put off, I guess.
Did I say something wrong?
As I’m wondering this, he sharpens his gaze and speaks up.
”Koji mentioned it… Are you saying Siera lacks charm as a woman?”
”Huh?”
…Is that what this is about?
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Edited by Kanaa-senpai.
Thanks for reading.
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