The business negotiation between Emilia and Kiritaka Muse proceeded surprisingly smoothly.

Kiritaka, being a merchant, doesn’t want to get on the bad side of a major power like the Royal Selection candidates. The very fact that Emilia herself came to meet him holds great significance for a merchant like Kiritaka.

Of course, Emilia, sipping her tea with a nonchalant attitude, had no such intentions. Just beside her, Garfiel also hesitated whether to touch the sweets placed nearby.

In the reception room of the Muse Company, Otto was the only one who seemed to understand Kiritaka’s inner thoughts as he sat across from him.

“I apologize for your trouble in coming all this way. I know it’s disrespectful, but I have a busy schedule… I’m aware I shouldn’t be moving around in a fuss, but it’s become a habit for me to check the scene.”

“I think that’s a splendid mindset. I also feel sorry for taking up your time when you’re busy. I didn’t expect to meet you so soon after my arrival.”

“Well, haste is of the essence in all matters. Especially when it comes to negotiations.”

Exchanging superficially embellished greetings, Otto observed the character of Kiritaka Muse.

The merchant sitting opposite him, Kiritaka Muse, certainly had the demeanor and presence of one of the leading merchants in the city of Pristella.

He was still quite young, likely in his mid to late twenties.

Tall and slender, he was dressed in well-tailored clothes, and his light blonde hair was neatly styled back. Without being overly ostentatious, his accessories exuded a sense of leisure and refinement, and traces of a high-level education were evident in both his speech and gestures.

Having accompanied Roswaal as an internal affairs officer for Emilia’s faction, Otto had indirectly accumulated experience negotiating with influential figures and powerful individuals, and he deemed Kiritaka’s demeanor to be easily comparable.

Simply put, he was inwardly relieved that he had come along.

If Emilia had faced Kiritaka alone, she would surely have been sweet-talked into buying some overpriced pot or something.

Over the past year, Otto had come to regard Emilia quite highly.

“Now, may I ask your business? I heard from one of Anastasia’s messengers that there are products handled by our company that you desire.”

“Then the conversation will be swift. The truth is…”

As Kiritaka was about to get to the point, Otto paused and glanced at Emilia once.

Essentially, Emilia’s stance during negotiations was to leave matters to Otto. Meanwhile, Garfiel was chewing on a sweet while glaring sharply at a man dressed all in white standing calmly in a corner of the room.

This self-assertive person, who seemed to be an employee, was said to be a bodyguard according to Kiritaka. He had declared that things had been somewhat dangerous lately, which was why he sought permission to attend.

Otto recognized the man dressed in white.

He was likely a member of the mercenary group “White Dragon’s Scale,” which was known to be highly regarded by the Muse Company in Pristella. This is a mercenary group that had a certain level of fame even in Lugnica and had a history.

Though the group was said to be akin to a jack-of-all-trades, it was a well-known fact that they had been on amiable terms with the Muse Company for several years. Seeing this, it was likely Kiritaka’s decision to bring them on board.

“There is one request from our side. I would like to acquire the colorless magical ore among the magical ores handled by the Muse Company, which is noted for its particularly high purity. I would like you to part with it.”

While assessing Kiritaka as a cautious individual, Otto straightforwardly laid out their request.

Indirect demands wouldn’t hold any meaning. By the time this negotiation took place, Kiritaka was already aware of the reason for their visit.

Moreover, Kiritaka knew he couldn’t refuse Emilia’s request.

“I see. Our company indeed has magical ores… and I pride myself on handling very high-quality ones compared to others in the same trade. We could prepare as much of the colorless magical ore that Lady Emilia desires as needed…”

“Kiritaka, let’s drop the indirect phrasing. Our request is as I stated: the highest purity colorless magical ore. That’s all.”

“…I apologize for that.”

It wasn’t to the extent of being obstinate; it was merely a back-and-forth exchange of words.

Having acted foolishly despite understanding, Kiritaka continued to probe into their finances. For him, the outcome of this negotiation was already decided; the only question left was what price tag would be put on it.

“We are indeed making an unreasonable request, so we are willing to offer flexibility above the market rate. However, Baron Meisars, who is Lady Emilia’s supporter, holds the mining rights for magical ores in Erior Forest.”

“A scam to manipulate the market is hardly worth it in transactions involving magical ores handled individually. Our work is built on trust. You understand that, don’t you, Otto?”

Realizing their identity was already known, Otto let out an internal sigh.

The Suwen family, as a merchant house, does not compare to the Muse family, but they are not small enough that their origins couldn’t be traced. In the camp of the candidate for Royal Selection, who decides the fate of the nation, it is only natural for someone well-informed to have done their homework on the prominent individuals involved.

Moreover, that the Emilia faction had many aspects that couldn’t be traced was a terrifying reality.

Garfiel, who had been holed up in the “Sanctuary” for over a century, and Emilia, who had spanned her time in Erior Forest, as well as the “Young Girl User,” whose identities remained dubious for both parties.

When it came to disclosing Otto’s identity, he’d be wide open to scrutiny.

“Otto? You don’t look so well.”

“Oh, no, don’t mind me. I was just briefly caught up in some irrational thoughts and felt a bit strange.”

Shaking his head at Kiritaka’s words, Otto temporarily cast aside his unproductive thoughts and renewed the push for Kiritaka to answer the main topic. Kiritaka showed signs of thoughtful contemplation.

“From our perspective, it would be odd not to provide what products we have on hand. Naturally, I intend to comply with Lady Emilia’s request.”

“Then…”

“However, the magical ore you desire is something special. It is, in fact, something I inherited when I was entrusted to lead the Muse Company’s branch here in Pristella by the head of the company—my father. Therefore, its value lies more in its significance as a gift rather than as a product for trading.”

“——–”

Whether true or a mere embellishment, Otto bit his lip as he considered it a clever approach.

As Kiritaka himself had stated, although it was a rare magical ore, trading it singularly would not yield much profit when viewed against the scale of company dealings.

If that were the case, where would the additional value be placed? Not in product value itself, but rather in the emotional aspect of parting with something important to oneself, emphasizing that he expected them to recognize that as an added value.

“I see… such an important item.”

In reality, Emilia was clearly shaken by Kiritaka’s explanation.

Seeing the pained expression of guilt on her face made it evident that she was not very adept at psychological strategies. Otto coughed, feeling that he had to step up.

“I appreciate your feelings. However, I would like to request a compromise on that matter.”

“I understand. I am also a merchant dealing with magical ores. Such items shine brightest in the hands of those who need them rather than being displayed on a shelf. I will part with it… however, a few conditions apply.”

“—Conditions. Let’s hear them.”

After preparing to considerably inflate the price tag, Kiritaka stepped into the main negotiation. Otto stood ready to respond, and Kiritaka raised three fingers.

What kind of unreasonable demands would arise? Otto felt a pang in his stomach.

“First, please understand that the colorless magical ore you are seeking was not hidden out of ill intentions by Muse Company.”

“…Of course. Now that you’ve divulged the circumstances, I have no reason to doubt you.”

In making the first statement, Kiritaka sought to eliminate any misunderstandings the Emilia faction had held thus far. To wrap things up harmoniously, this was something Otto could only nod along to.

“And the second: after we finalize our contract, let’s involve the Hoshin Company as witnesses and leave a clear record that this transaction was conducted properly.”

“I would agree to that as well… there are no issues.”

It seemed Kiritaka was indicating that the Muse Company had dealings with Hoshin Company. It appeared he intended to ink a broader acknowledgment of the favor Emilia had done for Anastasia.

Although this inevitably stirred up some unease, since it was a valid request, rejecting it was not an option.

However, up to this point, it was something that could be rectified without too much trouble. The third request—the last one to be introduced—would clearly show Kiritaka’s position.

In front the breath-holding Otto, Kiritaka lightly waved his third finger.

“Third: Don’t make contact with the ‘Songstress’ Liliana while staying in the city.”

“—What?”

Otto stared, dumbfounded, at the sudden mention of an entirely irrelevant person.

Of course, Emilia and Garfiel, who were present, were also similarly stunned—no, the two had maintained their earlier expressions. Emilia was sipping her tea, while Garfiel continued to glare at the man in white. Even though the negotiations were technically being handled by Otto, their unwavering posture was rather admirable.

“I’m sorry. If I didn’t mishear, it sounded like you were asking us to stay away from the ‘Songstress’?”

“Yes, that is not mistaken. That is all our demands. If there’s any issue with this, I would like to reconsider this transaction…”

“That’s not a problem, but can we know the reason? For now, it doesn’t seem like our transaction relates to the ‘Songstress’.”

“…I don’t think there’s any need to discuss that. It’s simply whether you can concede to my request or not.”

With a drop in tone, Kiritaka revealed an emotional side that he hadn’t shown before. At that perplexing demand, Otto found himself hesitating on how to respond.

Quite frankly, the third request was unexpected and did not seem to interfere with Emilia’s plans.

Emilia might lament not being able to meet with the ‘Songstress’, but she could simply set that aside for the sake of achieving their goals this time around.

Considering that, a surprisingly straightforward answer began to surface.

If that were what it took to finalize the negotiation, then all the better. They should settle things before Subaru, who had been left behind, caught up and complicated matters.

“Lady Emilia, would that be alright?”

“Yeah. It’s a little disappointing, but it can’t be helped.”

As she nodded to this confirmation, Emilia tucked her chin down. Otto was about to respond with acceptance when Kiritaka happily accepted it, marking the preliminary stages of the magical ore transaction’s conclusion. All that was left was to negotiate the actual price and retrieve the merchandise.

“Here are the physical items. While I have several other quality ones prepared, would you like to take a look?”

Kiritaka rose and took a wooden box from the back shelf.

Once placed atop the table and opened, it emitted a radiant glow like that of a treasure chest, momentarily causing Emilia and Otto’s eyes to blink in surprise.

Different colored magical ores were neatly arranged atop cushions. Among them, the one standing out was the transparent magical ore, unmarked by any elemental color.

That was none other than the colorless magical ore Emilia sought.

“Would you like to take it in your hands and confirm it?”

At Kiritaka’s words, Emilia looked up.

When Kiritaka nodded, Emilia let out a small sigh and gently reached for the magical ore. However,

“Lady Emilia!”

“Youth!”

At the same time, two martial types in the room called out to their respective masters.

They exchanged glances and then turned to face their puzzled masters.

“What’s all this noise about?! Cut it out already! Inside, Emilia-tan and the others are in the middle of a negotiation…”

The moment Emilia recognized a familiar voice, the man in white swung open the reception room’s door.

On the other side stood a puzzled-looking man, undoubtedly familiar—a small girl at either side, making him perfectly suited for the title “Young Girl User”: Natsuki Subaru.

“—Subaru?!”

Called by Emilia, Subaru finally noticed the scene around him and turned pale.

Otto felt an overwhelming urge to sigh internally, but for the moment, he chose not to raise his voice but rather to observe the reactions around him.

At that moment, Subaru, with a resigned expression, raised his hand slightly.

“Y-yo, Emilia-tan. What a coincidence.”

“What do you mean ‘coincidence’? You’ve been so loud… Wait, is that Kiritaka?”

Emilia’s puzzled voice drew Otto’s attention once again.

Looking over, he saw Kiritaka, who had reached into the wooden box, standing up with a wild gleam in his eyes as he glared at Subaru.

In his hand was a high-purity blue magical ore—

“D-don’t touch my Liliana!!”

A frantic voice rang out, followed by the throw of the magical ore.

Before anyone could stop it, the ore shot towards Subaru—radiating a blue glow, sending him flying.

※※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※

“I’m sorry about that. Our young master usually stays sharp, but when it comes to Liliana, he gets even sharper… I’ll square it away by tomorrow, so for now, just go home.”

After the commotion, the middle-aged man in white, having established calm between the two factions, bowed with an apologetic look.

Inside the now-closed room, Kiritaka’s shrieks could still be heard, evidently not a sight to show others, so the area was now effectively forbidden to enter.

“I truly have my troubles with you, Kiritaka. Trying to steal away the chance for me, Emilia-sama, and Natsuki Subaru-sama to talk… it makes me furious!”

On the other hand, Liliana was fuming, having been schemed against without her presence.

Puffing her cheeks in anger, she expressed her frustration while considering producing a new tune titled “Outrageous Heroic Legend” based on Subaru’s toppled figure, just after incurring Beatrice’s displeasure.

“Liliana, today you must consider our young master’s feelings.”

“………………………………………… understood.”

Though it took a while to sink in, Liliana finally relented.

As a result, Emilia’s faction returned gloriously with seemingly nothing accomplished in that negotiation due to Subaru’s grand mishap.

“In other words, that girl Liliana is quite the celebrity fanatic—having a severe case of a trendy hobby, which is why Kiritaka wanted us to stay away from her. That was the condition of the third request concerning the magical ore.”

“Thus, just when things were about to settle, Natsuki-san came and smashed it all up. I understand now. You really know how to cause a ruckus, don’t you?!”

“I feel awful about it too, but who would’ve imagined I’d run into that kind of flag after getting seasick… That was way beyond my control…”

Otto couldn’t hide his displeasure after the negotiation ended up fruitless.

Subaru’s reasoning had lost its edge, partly because the aftermath remained, but it also became clear that tomorrow’s negotiation would be pretty challenging due to Kiritaka’s frenzy.

“Hey, come on, Otto-kun, don’t get all worked up about it. This was no ill intention on Subaru’s part. Sometimes, such things just happen.”

“You’re right. Emilia-tan, give him a little more encouragement.”

“Subaru needs to reflect. Even if we set aside Miss Liliana, causing such a ruckus in someone else’s work environment is quite bothersome. The receptionists will be troubled, too.”

“Yes, I’m sorry.”

Subaru sincerely bowed his head, eliciting a nod of approval from Emilia.

Watching this casual banter between them, Otto let out an exasperated sigh.

“Anyway, today’s negotiations end here. For now, I’d like to return to the ‘Water’s Feather Robe Inn’ and rethink our strategy… but I have some business to attend to, so I’ll step out for a moment.”

“Business?”

Upon hearing this unexpected remark, everyone tilted their heads while Otto gestured towards the Muse Company.

“Having gone all the way to Pristella, it’s essential to create what connections I can. I’ll just talk today, but there might be a need for you, Emilia-sama, to visit later. When that time comes…”

“Right, understood. But do I have to go alone today?”

“If you arrive unannounced, it could cause great trouble as they may not be able to provide a satisfactory welcome. Caution is part of consideration.”

“Alright. I understand. I’ll remember that.”

As Emilia replied positively, Otto reiterated, “Make sure to head straight home.”

He left towards the depths of the second district.

Garfiel attempted to follow Otto but was denied with, “Prioritizing delivering Emilia-sama safely comes first.”

“So what did Subaru talk about with that Miss Liliana?”

“Oh? Emilia-tan is curious about the other girl I’m chatting with? I don’t know, it feels pretty nice to have such a little change happen for me.”

“No, I’m just curious about what kind of person the Songstress is—so please don’t get the wrong idea.”

“I’d rather it stay a misunderstanding!?”

As ever, Emilia’s innocent yet blunt remarks pierced Subaru’s heart without restraint.

That being said, there was no reason to stay silent, and this was the norm, so Subaru quickly bounced back and began recounting the events of their time together.

“When I first spotted her singing in the park, I thought it was something amazing! It’s easy to see why she’s called the ‘Songstress.’ Right, Beako?”

“I do not deny that. I cannot deny that.”

“But Beatrice, why do you emphasize it so much? Did something happen?”

“One particular talent’s prominence raises the question whether it diminishes other essential elements—a profound proposition Liliana presented to us.”

Subaru understood Beatrice’s insistence on such a point.

Liliana must have ended up like that due to pouring everything into her singing talent.

“People might not always get the skills they desired, but even if they do acquire such talent, it doesn’t mean they become extraordinary beings.”

“Oh, you’ve gotten quite philosophical there, captain. Did such a thought come to you because of her song?”

“I’ll give you that much. It’s a universal conclusion regarding Liliana.”

As they walked back, unlike on the way there, they all were heading back on foot, facing the issue of leaving Subaru behind.

“Since the town’s scenery is so beautiful, I’d like to walk around and enjoy it properly. Since it sounds like Otto-kun won’t have anything left to do today.”

Expressing this whim seemed to evoke some guilt in Emilia, but it was such a cute request that it hardly fell into the domain of being a spoiled one.

Subaru, Garfiel, and even Beatrice offered no objection.

“The real challenge is whether we can successfully guide Emilia-tan back to the inn without issue.”

“Don’t worry. Worst case, Beatrice can touch the wall with her left hand.”

“We already had a proper discussion about the flaws of that method.”

“You both needn’t worry. My nose will handle it. I can remember the inn’s location just as well as I can recognize a child’s scent!”

“—Oh?”

Prompted by Garfiel’s mention of scents, Subaru couldn’t help but smile at Mimi’s existence.

The timid little cat-girl’s responses to Garfiel were overflowing with energy but completely oblivious, indicating she must have a kind of affinity. It was an intriguing combination at their ages.

Meanwhile, Garfiel remained resolutely brushed off by Ram, who seemed uninterested in feelings deeper than kindness to a younger brother.

“Anyway, Garfiel. From the bottom of my heart, I wish for your happiness.”

“Huh? Don’t suddenly say such creepy things, captain. I don’t mind though…”

Subaru, with a knowing smile, slapped Garfiel’s shoulder, who tilted his head in confusion while baring his teeth in a smile. May happiness find the straightforward, lovable younger brother. That was the genuine wish from Subaru’s heart.

“By the way, what a lovely town it is. Every sight feels fresh, making it a bit disorienting.”

In the midst of their return, Emilia appeared to be in high spirits, enjoying the constantly changing scenery. Subaru, simply witnessing Emilia’s cheerful expressions, felt his own spirits rising, yet he agreed with her statements about the town’s architecture.

The town’s architecture seemed calculated to the point of resembling fine works of art or crafts. Even the waterway running through the city’s center had an appeal that transcended utility.

“It’s all pretty suspicious gossip when it comes to the town’s origins, though.”

“There were rumors about the limits of the technology at the time or that they tried to contain a nasty magical beast. Still, regardless of the trigger, it doesn’t change the fact that what exists here is beautiful. Am I right?”

Emilia stopped in the middle of the bridge, smiling as she gazed at the grand waterway.

Lost in her beauty, Subaru nodded happily, “That’s right.”

Regardless of the cause, all that exists here is all that matters.

The feelings driving them toward their goals, the results in hand—if they reached that point, it was all good.

What truly mattered was not the beginning but the conclusion.

“That’s right, Mother.”

“Huh, what did you just say?”

“I was just recalling those words of magic from the most respected woman in the world.”

Time may pass since those memories, but even now, Subaru found much encouragement from them.

He had not forgotten, nor could he forget everything those moments had given him. Today, Natsuki Subaru still held onto that warmth and lived on.

While Subaru and Emilia exchanged smiles, Garfiel and Beatrice read the mood and distanced themselves slightly.

The people around them commonly aimed to provide such small moments for two busy figures who rarely had time to spare, a sentiment that even Beatrice could openly acknowledge.

“Your nose seems to be extended and looks pitiful.”

“When you’re getting cozy with someone you like, it can’t be helped. I find that somewhat reassuring. It’s good to see the captain openly show his manly side.”

“What do you mean by that?”

“Well, usually the women around the captain tend to be younger, or if it’s not that, it’s mostly men… I wonder if you’d be suspected of getting close to Emilia-sama.”

“Natsuki’s delightful and oddly romantic side is completely fine! He often gets overly friendly with Beatrice and Petra!”

“That guarantee doesn’t sound that reassuring either.”

As they traded barbs about Subaru’s preferences, unbeknownst to the chaotic conversation going on behind them, Subaru was having an enjoyable time savoring Water City with Emilia.

“Well then, shall we head back? I want to see the inn we’ll be staying at today. The building has such a strangely fascinating shape!”

“That’s a Wafoo building. To be honest, I’m curious too, just from a different side than you, Emilia-tan.”

“Oh really? Then let’s hurry!”

With hands freed from the railing, Emilia stepped back slightly, and perhaps in her excitement, she failed to check behind her.

“Oh!”

“Oops.”

At that moment, she bumped into a cloaked individual who was walking by. The person quickly supported her with a hand as she let out a small sound.

“I’m so sorry! I wasn’t looking behind me properly…”

“I apologize as well. This child can be a bit careless. I’ll be sure to lecture her properly.”

As Emilia turned around hurriedly to apologize to the hooded figure, Subaru rushed to her side and bowed his head to the stranger too.

He chose not to mention Emilia’s name instinctively, wary of anyone recognizing her identity. If Emilia’s identity became known out in the open, it could inevitably lead to a commotion. Naturally, Emilia was also clad in a coat designed to obscure her identity.

Thus, such a minor interaction with an outsider should not lead to significant problems.

Even this occasion was no different.

“Although it was my fault for not paying better attention. I momentarily lost myself in thought.”

“Um?”

“I was mesmerized by the beautiful silver hair of the young lady I bumped into. It reminded me of a woman I once considered marrying; her hair was equally beautiful. I recall that and lost track of time.”

Depending on how it was interpreted, it sounded somewhat flirtatious, but there was a sticky heat in his voice.

The hooded man was slim, likely still quite young, and Subaru was puzzled about how long ago this potential bride he spoke of was from.

However, he decided that it was directly related to some type of individual who purely intended to keep their distance from Emilia.

“Then let’s call this mutual carelessness, shall we? It seems the apology from our side has been conveyed, so we’ll take our leave.”

“Wait a minute, Subaru! That’s not a sincere way to apologize…”

“Just trust me, alright?”

“——–”

Once Subaru pulled Emilia back slightly, she seemed to sense something and fell silent. As the two interacted, the hooded figure slowly shook his head.

“It’s perfectly fine. For now, I hold no grievances or business with you. If you wish to leave, please feel free. If something arises, destiny will prepare the necessary setting for that.”

“Right, I guess I’ll wish for tomorrow’s reunion to be orchestrated by destiny.”

Answering poetically, Subaru replied with a middle school-like response and turned to leave.

As he pulled Emilia along, he stole a quick glance at her, noticing she seemed a bit distracted while glancing back at the man who had just left.

“Well, it was kind of rude of me. I just wanted to protect Emilia-tan from any strange individuals.”

“Huh? Oh, no. I do think Subaru’s behavior wasn’t proper, but it was ultimately my own carelessness that caused this. But that’s not the point. That’s not what I meant to say…”

At that point, her words trailed off as uncertainty settled in her eyes.

Yet, unable to remain silent, she quivered her lips in hesitation.

“I felt like I’ve met that person somewhere before… although I couldn’t see their face well, I got this strange feeling.”

“Oh? You know someone? I should probably know that person too.”

“Yeah… but I can’t remember. Who could it have been?”

With something clearly weighing on her, Emilia glanced back again. However, the hooded figure was already gone, and it seemed answers would not unfold.

“Hey, captain. You were in quite a hurry pulling her away, did you feel like you were about to lose her to that handsome guy?”

As Subaru and Emilia crossed the bridge, Garfiel, waiting ahead, teased him. Subaru clicked his tongue at that remark.

“Stupid! What do you think I’d do if something strange popped up while you weren’t around? If I’m unable to deal with someone, it could pose a danger for Emilia-tan!”

“If you’re going to claim that, then it’d be a chance to show your manly side by standing protectively, Captain!”

“If I use my body as a shield, what then? What if they break through? I’m not confident about my bulk either as a shield or for my personality.”

At Subaru’s self-depreciating assessment, Garfiel chuckled.

Although Garfiel perceived it as a humble attitude, Subaru saw it as a fair evaluation. In fact, they likely had overly optimistic expectations regarding his capabilities.

“Just rest assured. If I assess someone as problematic, I won’t hesitate to jump in. You don’t have to worry about that earlier guy; he’s clearly an amateur, from his gait to where his eyes venture.”

“You can say that for sure?”

“You can tell just by watching. I noticed that you swung a blade at some point, captain. You have a distinct way of moving your feet and arms.”

“Are you serious? That’s a crazy knack to have.”

I had not shared my kendo experience with Garfiel.

At best, it was just middle school kendo, and it was already established that those skills wouldn’t be suitable for this world. Still, those traces of perseverance had clearly played well enough for those who could tell.

Since Garfiel deemed it valuable enough to caution regarding, it was possible that this worry was unfounded.

“So let’s go then, Emilia-tan. Or do you still have something else in mind?”

Setting aside his own thoughts for the moment, Subaru inquired of Emilia.

She glanced around, but eventually shook her head, appearing to settle the matter.

“No, I’m fine. I don’t want to make it awkward by worrying. Let’s head back.”

“That’s the plan. Better to go back and cuddle with Mimi for some soothing. Oh, and I’m satisfied with Beako’s cuddles, so don’t you get spoiled on that.”

“Beatrice didn’t say anything!”

In response to Subaru’s teasing, Beatrice responded with a poke as Emilia laughed.

Then, while placing her hand on her mouth, she said, “I know. If I hold Mimi, I’ll likely feel really satisfied. Let’s do that.”

With that said, she resumed walking with a face that seemed to shed her worries.

※※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※

“—I see now. I finally understand what coming here meant.”

A hooded figure swayed his coat’s hem and muttered quietly.

He was the man everyone had brushed against earlier. He reflected on the small girl’s appearance in his mind and let a smile creep onto his lips—one that carried a sense of chilling malice.

“You went out of your way to have me come out. I had been prepared to take my leave if it was something boring, but if that’s the sort of company that’s around then the conversation changes.”

His voice remained flat, yet emitted a sticky heat from within.

What could be perceived was the culmination of undying obsession being overcooked like something burnt in a pot, the vile outcome of grotesque obsession.

“I will ensure that my property never escapes me. I must exist as I am, with nothing missing from my completeness. Being full means one must be continuously fulfilled. Thus, it is only natural that the vacant slots be filled.”

The man spoke quickly, then looked upward.

At that instant, his hood flew off, revealing white hair.

The wind caught the hair—hurling it was enough to cause him to click his tongue in irritation.

“I’ll have to go collect my seventy-ninth wife who has remained vacant so far.”

With that assertion, the white-haired sorcerer found himself laughing derisively amidst the Water City.

“`

 

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