Sousetsuka

 13





"Was there really a need to state my name out loud?"

"I thought that was for the best then. Sorry."

"Thanks to that, I received a summon from Earl Chada-sama. Addressed to Wazrof Merchant Chaney-dono, it says."

"Those guys must have heard wrong. Sorry."

"Despite how it seems, I'm actually a pretty busy man, you see. I don't have time to go galloping around in a town with no business prospects like Chada."

"There's none?"

"Of course not. Where in northern region can you find goods that can be sold in the prosperous and more technologically advanced southern towns?"

"What about woodwork and pelts?"

"Yufu mountain range is much closer for that. Just how far apart do you think Vouka is to this region."

"Sorry. But that medal was super effective."

"Lecan-sama could have just asked and Wazrof would give you dozens of such medals. You could have shown that medal and named yourself instead. Say, 'I'm adventurer Lecan, conqueror of Dungeon Tsubolt and Dungeon Palcimo'. That would have been met with a much better reception than naming some shabby merchant from the northern region."

"Right, could have done that. Didn't hit me. Sorry."

"Or better yet, you could have just named yourself a member of Wazrof."

"I'm not a member of Wazrof."

"Lecan-sama is very much one seeing as you are a fiance of the cousin of the head of Wazrof. If Lecan-sama don't think that's right, you could simply lodge your refusal to Wazrof later. At the very least, that would have been much closer to the truth than announcing me as a Wazrof merchant."

"I'm telling you they misheard."

"Lecan-sama. There are merchants who do prefer to involve themselves in the affairs of elite class out there. However, I am not one of such merchants."

"So you are. Sorry."

"And yet, Chaney Company ended up not only interfering in a succession race of Earl of Chada but even tilted the scale to one side through the use of force."

"That wasn't my intention. Sorry."

"And of all things, you mentioned Wazrof name before members of Cogcroix Household."

"Cogcroix Household?"

"It's the family name of Chada townlord. For your information, the present head is Earl Nina Cogcroix-sama."

"Ah, so she really is a woman. So what's so bad about saying Wazrof in front of Cogcroix people?"

"Because they are relatives. I am not well informed on the matter myself, but after a lady of Wazrof married into Cogcroix Household, Wazrof has supposedly showered them with support, and they likely act as a protector of Cogcroix Household at the Royal Court. Cogcroix Household themselves should see Wazrof as an upper ranking relative they're extremely careful about. And also."

Chaney turned all smiles. Scary smiles. This is how this man's like when he's seriously angry.

"When did you become my escort exactly?"

"When we first met."

"Oho."
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"Sorry."

"Lecan-sama."

"Hm?"

"You don't believe you could slip away just because you keep saying sorry, do you?"

"No, that's not what I'm thinking."

"Aren't you itching to flee this place and give a whirl on the shiny new Grace Gear you just acquired?"

"W-what are you."

"You will not get away."

"Eh?"

"We will go to Chada together."

"No. You'll have no use of me there."

"Oh I sure will. Stay next to me. And then simply say, 'Chaney is right', whenever I asked, 'Isn't that right, Lecan-sama?'"

"...."

"I shall have your company."

"...."

"Lecan-sama."

"...I got it."

Despite one such scene, the whole incident is closing in on the finale.

First of all, to Rotor Townlord, a high ranking adventurer, conqueror of two grand dungeons has gone out of his way to conquer Dungeon Rotor and even presented the dungeon boss's material intact to him. That in itself is already profitable and prestigious enough, but having dragon materials in his disposal would hugely improve the townlord's standing among the neighboring southern towns. Naris Kandros refrained from selling the Petitfire Dragon's husk, and connected the cut neck to the body instead, fully intending to adorn his mansion's banquet hall with the full dragon's majestic figure in all its glory.

Additionally, as he succeeded in exposing two merchants who were responsible for a big crime in another town before changing their faces and names to slip into Rotor, it added another point to his prestige.

For Chada townlord, it was a huge relief as well since she almost lost her life along with her retainers. On top of that, as she was saved not by another townlord, which would have incurred them a huge debt, but an adventurer working under a merchant whom they could temporarily hire, they would be seen as the one settling the incident instead. They gained honor in a situation where they were close to losing face.

As a result of the interrogation performed on the little brother of the previous townlord and Ceras of Mace Firm, it was found out that the previous lord's eldest son was assassinated by Ceras. The second son also ended up dying due to a scheme plotted up by the little brother. Both of them were promptly executed. In order to prevent those who had supported them from making their moves. As they rounded up all the treacherous dissenters in one go, it was another huge gain.

Rotor townlord also delivered Keibun and Zeahad along with all the proof to Chada townlord, relenting the right to punish them to her. As the great criminals who once managed to escape her territory got to be punished in her territory, Chada townlord could save her face. Rotor townlord also profited from getting Chada townnlord's gratitude.

Next, Rintos, Maina and employees of Septema Firm received back all the stolen goods Ceras hid, and was granted permission to revive Setpema Firm by the townlord. A result far above Rintos and co. expectations.

Ceras was planning to use the stolen goods to reinforce their military strength that would then aid them in the planned revolt, but that never came to pass due to the sudden turn of the situation.

All the more unique things among the stolen goods were surprisingly found in Chada townlord's treasury.

They were apparently planning to frame Chada townlord as the perpetrator of the raid 12 years ago.

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12





Getting the spy that was sent to Chada to lead the way would have been best here, but that spy had completely exhausted himself after staying up all night running to Rotor to deliver the information. Up until this point, he would make use of delivery companies to send information, but the man insisted on delivering the last one himself. Since Nirfut at least knows where Chada townlord's mansion is located, Lecan had him be the guide instead. He woke Chaney up before leaving and borrowed the Wazrof Medal.

Naturally Rotor's gate was closed shut. They climbed over it.

They ran on mountain paths.

With <3D Perception>, it's no issue for Lecan to navigate his way under dim star lights. Nirfut managed to keep up with Lecan's pace, either thanks to his vision, intuition or some sort of ability.

Lecan had Nirfut take a Stamina Restorative before departing. He would cast <Recovery> whenever Nirfut slowed down. There was to be no break. Nirfut might have been running like he was being chased down by a devil there. He asked Lecan for water, Lecan told him to drink on his running feet.

Despite all that, they got to Chada just as dawn broke.

The town's gate is still shut down. Lecan grabbed Nirfut and went over the wall with a barrage of <Gust>.

Lecan kept running while leaving behind a rustle from people waiting in front of the gate.

"Where's the townlord's mansion."

"O-Over there."

The mansion's gate has been broken down.

There are traces of magic attack. It likely got pried open with magic.

A tumult could be heard from the big building in the center.

As Lecan was making his way through the courtyard, Chubby showed up.

"Chief! Third floor. The insurgents are close to breaking in the townlord's room!"

Chubby pointed at the target room. Lecan scouted the clash occurring in that room with <Life Detection> and <3D Perception>. It's between those who are attempting to break into the room and those who are trying to block them.

Lecan hurled Nirfut away and ran up the wall.

"<Wind>! <Wind>! <Wind>! <Wind>!"

As he broke through the window into the third floor room, the people inside turned to look at him in surprise.

Lecan held the Wazrof medal high up and shouted out loud.

"I'm an escort working for Wazrof merchant Chaney! I have come here after finding out a scheme by Chada merchant Ceras and the previous lord's brother to stage a revolt made known through an interrogation carried out by Rotor townlord."

After saying that much, he walked up to the nearly broken door while still holding the medal up.

"T-that's a crest of Wazrof indeed."

"Wazrof's merchant?"

Three knights are holding down the door. With two mages behind them, wands raised. There are 20 knights beyond the door, some are working to break it while some are readying to rush inside.

Lecan put the medal away, drew <Comet Cutter> with his right hand and generated the magic blade. Then he thrust his left arm forward. The door broke open that instance.

"<Flame Spear>! <Flame Spear>! <Flame Spear>!"

The magic attacks shot out of Lecan's left hand pulverized three knights' heads. The other knights stopped moving behind their bodies.

"<Lightning>!"
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
Lecan knocked out that group with a moderate strength <Lightning>.

He then grabbed <Wand of Cordishie> in his left hand and recited a spell.

"<Barrier (Ogdim)>!"

As the wand cast the Barrier spell slotted in it, several flying arrows got stopped mid air and fell down the ground.

This should buy some time. Lecan turned around to look for the townlord, but he couldn't find anyone that fits the part. There are men and women. All the knights and soldiers here are badly wounded.

"Who's Chada townlord?"

"That would be this person here."

A dignified elderly man pointed at a very slim blond young man. He's got an elegant visage. You'd think he's a woman at a glance. He's wearing some luxurious looking nightclothes.

"Are you the townlord?"

The young man nodded.

"Should I slaughter all the hostiles out there?"

The young man looked up at the elderly man.

"Gramps?"

Even his voice sounded like a woman's.

"You must not Earl-sama. They are still knights and soldiers under this household."

"I understand. I would like to hear your name, escort."

"Lecan."

"Lecan. They are vassals of our household. Could you capture them with minimal injury if possible?"

"Ok then, I'll paralyze them with magic."

"Do just that. Lecan."

"Hm?"

"Was the one who kept shouting 'revolt' over and over earlier a friend of yours?"

That's probably Chubby.

"Yeah, must be."

"You have my gratitude, Lecan. Thanks to them, our house aide managed to bring and protect me in this room. We would have been taken completely off guard if not for that voice."

"Yeah?"

The barrier kept getting worn down as they speak. It won't last much longer.

Lecan left the room and rapidly cast held-back <Lightning>. He undid <Barrier> and blew away the clumped up soldiers in stairway with <Gust>. Meanwhile, ally knights and soldiers rushed in and captured the rebelling hostiles.

The elderly man spoke.

"You there, Lecan, was it. I would like to hear your side of story."

"Hang on. <Recovery><Recovery><Recovery><Recovery><Recovery><Recovery>."

"Ooh!"

"Aah!"

Lecan walked up to the window while casting <Recovery> on the injured.

He looked down and saw Nirfut below. The man is sprawling on the ground.

"Nirfut! Do not move a muscle! You might fall otherwise!"

"Uh what?"

"<Float><Move>."

Nirfut's body floated up. Then he kept going up until he landed in the third floor room.

Next to him, Chubby kept pointing at himself as if saying 'me too, me too', but Lecan pretended he didn't see him.

Lecan pushed Nirfut to the elderly man.

"This man will explain."

"Lecan-sama."

Nirfut looked back at Lecan with begrudging eyes.

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 11





"Traitor?"

"Yes. An employee of Mace Firm overheard Ceras calling Muzz that. However, there is also a possibility of Ceras using that word to refer to Muzz's wife instead."

"How are they traitor?"

"We have no idea. But it appears that Muzz's wife was once in a relationship with Ceras before she married Muzz."

"I see."

The spy Nirfut dispatched to Chada was highly skilled, they liberally used up the fund Lecan provided and managed to gain highly dense intel in a short amount of time.

When Cassandra of Boldrin was driven out of her family, many spies under Boldrin left. Nirfut who had started working under Chaney took three skilled spies among those as his subordinates, one of which he dispatched to Chada.

"And then things connect with the results of interrogations. Zeahad got the caravan's schedule, and gave it to Ceras for a huge sum before making himself scarce."

"Yes. Then during his hiding, he colluded with Keibun to snatch away some of the stolen goods with them."

"Then they changed their names and faces before settling in at Rotor."

"Yes."

"Quite a close town to pick as their hideaway."

"Yes. Apparently they were waiting for a chance to blackmail Ceras for money."

"Hmph. So they got some dirt on Ceras huh. Right, those two said Ceras harbors an ambition in their interrogation, what exactly is this ambition anyway?"

"We could not get a clear answer regarding that from the interrogation. We're currently investigating the matter. Please give us a bit more time."

"Where's the stolen goods at."

"We believe they're with Ceras. Although we are unsure if they're still at Chada or if they've been brought to someplace else."

"What's Ceras planning to do with those goods."

"I believe that is the central point in this incident."

"Also don't get why'd the townlord's soldiers take part in the raid. They're his citizens. The heck he's doing slaughtering 'em. Losing an influential company would be quite a blow for the town too."

"It appears that Chada townlord is not aware of this incident."

"What?"

"We cannot say for sure at this point yet. Also."
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
"Hm?"

"There is no truth in Ceras asking Chada Townlord for a Vengeance Permit."

"Knew it. Figured that's the case. But I still don't get it"

"What don't you get, Lecan-sama?"

"Ceras believed either Muzz, a former co-worker, or Muzz's wife betrayed him. So far so good."

"Yes."

"He loathed Muzz to the point of raiding a caravan, butchering all the personnel and took away all the goods leaving nothing behind. He must have been seeking money for some sort of goal. So I can see why he planned out the raid."

"Yes."

"But what about after that. Why'd Ceras offered his aid to Muzz's widow and children when he's the killer? What he did to Muzz doesn't match up with what Rintos had to say about the guy."

"It seems Ceras would regularly visit the widow. He might still have some lingering affection. Or perhaps, it's not a matter of likes or dislikes, and he simply wanted to take back what was stolen from him. Only Ceras himself would have the answer to that. It's just, we have also obtained some intriguing intel."

"Hou, speak."

"Some people think Ceras see Rintos-dono as his own son."

"What. I see. So that's how it is."

"No. After taking all kinds of things into consideration, I don't believe there is a shred of truth in Rintos-dono being Ceras's son."

"What? So it's just Ceras's misunderstanding?"

"It might not be a misunderstanding, but what he wants to believe. That the son of a woman he loved, or thought he owned, must be his own as well."

"Uumu. I don't really get it."

"That's simply the nature of human's hearts, they are not easy to comprehend."

"For sure. Magic beasts are so much more honest and comprehensible."

"I'm afraid I cannot say yes to that assertion."

As they would have a follow-up report in a few days time, Lecan told the rough outline to Rintos before going back to his inn and went to bed. It's a high class inn referred by Rotor townlord, the same one Chaney is staying at.

Nirfut slipped in Lecan's room that night.

"What do you need, Nirfut."

"The situation has taken a turn for the worse."

"Hou."

"Ceras's daughter had a son with the previous lord of Chada. Instating this grandson as the earl of Chada was Ceras's goal all along."

"An insurrection huh."

"The little brother of the previous Chada townlord held a quarter of the town's military power under him. However, this quarter reserve force has no fixed duty and acts as a  free-moving unit. We initially had no intel on when they would stage the uprising, but that was no longer the case."

"When's."

"It could happen as soon as by dawn tomorrow."

"What!"

"Ceras found out about how Rotor townlord has arrested, interrogated and exposed Hotan and Nuga's true identities. He knew the information gathered from their interrogation would eventually be conveyed to Chada townlord, which will bring about his fall."

"So he chose to revolt."

"Yes."

Rintos has asked Lecan to help him in his quest for vengeance. That was the condition to transfer over <Leg Bands of White Devil> ownership. Rintos's true enemy turned out to be Ceras. Lecan doesn't give a hoot about Chada townlord's well being, but the townlord is the one who's going to hand down punishment to Ceras. As such, saving and making Chada townlord indebted to him would be the best course of action toward obtaining <Leg Bands of White Devil>.

"We're departing Rotor right away, can your legs get you to Chada before dawn?"

"That would be a tall order."

"I'll give you some Stamina Restorative. I'll also cast <Recovery> along the way."

"Wha?"

"I'm coming along."

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 10





Back at their hideout, other former employees had gathered. Their faces lit up when they listened to Hotor's report.

"Hotor. Could you contact the atelier and ask for an artisan that can discern the vase? If we could prove that the vase belonged to our firm, we should be able to interrogate Hotan, no Keibun."

"Rintos-sama. We can get an artisan here. We can also prove the vase's origin. However, Hotan would likely feign ignorance on the vase being a stolen goods. At this stage, I believe getting more than that would be difficult. It would have been easier if only the items Hotan and Nuga presented to Rotor townlord were still here, but they are no longer in this town from what we know. We have not gathered enough proof yet."

"There must be something, anything we can do."

"Rintos."

"Y-yes. Lecan-sama."

"You want to exact revenge, don't you."

"Yes."

"Is that for the sake of killing the mastermind behind the raid that massacred your father and employees with your own hands. Or is it to expose this mastermind's crime to the world, and to hand down punishment."

Rintos fell deep in thought for a while before speaking resolutely.

"If possible, I would like to swing the sword of justice with my own hands. But that will be my selfish desire, not the end goal of our struggle. My, no our objective is to make the violent crime perpetrated by the culprit be known to the world. And to have them pay for their sin. And for the gods to witness that it was the children and employees of Muzz of Septema Firm who brought down the hammer of justice upon them. That is precisely how my father's honor will be restored."

"I see. Then how about leaving it to me."

"Eh."

"It seems this Ceras guy is helping you in this matter, at least he's sympathetic enough to ask for a Vengeance Permit from Chada townlord. But what we need most right now is Rotor townlord's cooperation."

"W-well that may be true, but we have no connection whatsoever with Rotor townlord-sama."

"That's where I come in the picture."

"I understand that Lecan-sama is a high ranking adventurer who's also engaged to a high ranking noble lady. But Rotor townlord-sama is well known for his profit-driven thought process who's also hard to please and ask to cooperate."

"I'll take care of it."

"Why would you go so far?"

"Cause I want those gaiters you have. Those gaiters are objects of extreme worth to me. I absolutely must have them to get me, an adventurer, even stronger. Your father left you those. So just think of it as your father lending a helping hand."

"My, father, lending a helping hand. By leaving these gaiters on me."

Rintos closed both his eyes.

Tears fell down his cheeks.

Next to him, Maina covered her face with her hands. Tears fell down her eyes.

"We shall leave everything in your hands."

Rintos, Maina and the six former employees all bowed.

Afterward, Lecan discussed things together with Chaney. They had Nirfut go to the temple to check something who then went back with good news. Lecan had meal and returned to his inn in good mood.

The day after, Lecan went in Dungeon Rotor after breakfast, warped to the last floor and defeated the boss there, Petitfire Dragon. He put the magic stone and dragon materials in <Storage> and headed for the townlord's mansion. Chaney was already waiting at the front gate. Lecan and Chaney asked for an audience with the townlord. Luckily for them, the townlord was available at the time.

"I just beat Dungeon Rotor's boss for your sake."

"Wha?"

"Besides half of the dragon's meat, I'm offering all the mats including the magic stone to you."
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"Wha?"

Lecan took the townlord to the courtyard and started taking dragon materials out of <Storage>.

The townlord dropped his jaw.

Lecan kept taking more and more dragon materials out.

The townlord's jaw kept getting lower instead of closing.

"A dragon, a whole dragon intact? Besides the missing meat and a clean cut on the neck, it's the whole thing here. I've never seen or heard anything like this."

"Half of the meat is yours. Turn the other half into preserved meat for me."

"Y-yeah."

"To tell you the truth, I've still got another dragon's worth of mats."

"W-What did you say?! I see, so that was really your damn-no, your doing. Not just once, but twice."

"Sure was. And the other one is all Chaney's."

"What."

"Eh?"

"I've left them under Chaney's care."

"Lecan-sama."

"Chaney. Naturally, you'd sell them to me, wouldn't you."

"M-milord. Of course I would."

"Oh today is truly a joyous day. Aah, oh great Elex!"

"Got one thing to ask you."

"I shall do anything in my power."

"Prepare this town's <Bell of Truth> to help Rintos's group, a merchant from Chada, interrogate Hotan, a merchant from this town. We've confirmed that the bell hasn't been used in the past year yet. Also, dispatch your trusted representative there. Hotan aka Keibun might be a major criminal depending on the result. That'll be your job as this town's lord to administer justice."

Chaney explained the circumstance to the bewildered townlord.

Afterward, things simply flowed like surging waves.

The <Bell of Truth> revealed that Hotan aka Keibun was responsible for stealing the goods, so Earl of Rotor arrested Keibun and made him confess everything through magic and tortures. Nuga aka Zeahad's crime was also made clear during the whole thing, he was also arrested and put under harsh interrogations.

The one who planned and gave the orders for the raid was none other than Ceras, the president of Mace Firm. And the ones carrying out the raid were soldiers of Earl Chada.

And just as the truth came to light, a spy Nirfut had dispatched to Chada came back, bringing news about a complicated quickening of the incident.

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 9





"Did you say Zeahad?"

Rintos looked surprised. Same with his little sister Maina and the six former employees who have gathered here.

"You know him?"

Rintos looked at the most senior looking man among the former employees. The elderly man spoke.

"The man known as Zeahad once worked as a head clerk of Septema Firm. He resigned to retire after the incident. I thought he did it to lessen the load of the firm, but he never got in touch thereafter, and never informed us on his whereabouts, I did think it was odd."

"Hmph. So you're sure it's the same man?"

"Now that you mention it, Nuga's face does look like Zeahad's. How could I overlook that."

"Have you met the guy yourself."

"I only peered from afar. Nuga, no Zeahad never saw my face."

"Good. What about this Keibun guy."

"There was a man called Keibun who worked as a head clerk of Mace Firm in the past. He was in charge of his workplace's business relationship with Septema Firm. I have heard that the man also resigned after the incident. I have seen Hotan's face as well, and they do indeed look alike."

"I see. It's all coming together. Now then, Rintos."

"Y-yes."

"We're going to the townlord's mansion. Two other attendants are allowed to go with me and Chaney. Your pick."

"Yes. One will be me. And the other."

Rintos looked at the senior former employee.

"Hotor. Will you come with me?"

"Yes. Allow me to accompany you. Speaking of, Rintos-sama."

"Yes?"

"Should we go get people from Chada here?"

Some former employees are staying at Chada to care for their store and gather intel.

"No. It is still too soon. We will definitely call them here once it is time to settle the matter."

"Yes. Thank you very much."

On the 32rd of month nine, Lecan and Chaney paid Rotor townlord, Naris Kandros, a visit.

"Earl Rotor-sama. This gentleman here is adventurer Lecan-sama. Lecan-sama. His lordship is Earl of Rotor, Naris Kandros-sama."

"Lecan is it, well met. Glad I could see the conqueror of Dungeon Tsubolt in person. And you even managed to obtain a <Comet Cutter>, wonderful. Do bring your good fortune to this town of Rotor."

"I'm Lecan. Nice to meet you."

"On top of it, the recent conquest of Dungeon Palcimo is apparently your handiwork. Unbelievable. You must be one of the strongest adventurers in this country huh."

"I was blessed with party members at Palcimo. The presence of Great Guide Jiza Morfes was especially huge. Could have never done it without Guide Morfes's participation."

"Hahaha. You're unexpectedly modest for a visual embodiment of boldness. This town's got good food and booze. Do enjoy yourself."

"For sure, the food and booze are all good. The inn bath is decent too."

"Hahaha. I see you've been enjoying yourself. What about the women. Or do you got companionship already?"

"They're not with me right now, but I've got two fiancees."
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
"Two?"

"Earl-sama. One of Lecan-sama's fiancees is the cousin of Marquis of Mashajain-sama."

"What. No way. Ah, pardon me. But could a lady of Mashajain be engaged to an adventurer. Hang on, did you say two?"

"Yes, Earl-sama. The other fiancee is Eda-sama of Vouka."

"Eda, of Vouka. Isn't Vouka your hometown, Chaney. Eda. I've heard that name before."

"She was the one who cast <Purification> on <Herb Saint> Skalabel-sama."

"<Saintess of the North>! The rumor about her has even spread far into the south. But if you have two fiancees, are you, no, could you be... Right, I've heard rumble about adventurer Lecan being a <Descender>. Were you perhaps of a noble origin at your original world?"

"Well yeah, something like that."

"Pardon my manners. I would like to formally invite you to a banquet tomorrow or perhaps the day after tomorrow."

"I'm grateful for the invitation. But, before that, I'd like to finish our business."

"Ah, right you would. Well then I shall take my leave here. Do make yourself at home. Our chamberlain shall remain. You are merchants who have neither brought in nor out anything."

"Sorry for this. We'll leave after a short break. We'll see you again later."

"I look forward to the occasion."

Rintos and Hotor in attendant outfits are standing behind the sofa Lecan and Chaney sit down on. Vandam is standing by outside. As for Nirfut, he's officially absent, investigating something in concealment. With Nirfut possessing mana, Lecan can easily tell where he is. But it might be difficult to locate him if he lost him once. Since there's quite a lot of people with Nirfut-level mana in this mansion.

Hotor wouldn't avert his line of sight from a vase put near the wall. That mus be the object in question. Hotor is an <Appraisal> user, he was appraising the vase. Lecan appraised it too.

The group left the mansion, and then Hotor spoke inside their wagon.

"The vase was one of the stolen goods. There is no doubt about it. The maker could testify for it as it was a custom ordered vase by Septema Firm. Their atelier had a good relationship with our firm for years. And above all, it is simply not an object that can be mistaken for something else."

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 8





"Ah right, Lecan-sama, I must express my gratitude once again."

"Hm?"

"My company has been granted the permission to associate with Wazrof Household."

"Hou?"

"Wazrof artisans renowned for their skills in woodworking and pelt handling in the northern region have been giving us guidance and advice."

"Is that a good thing for your business?"

"But of course! Even the fact that we are allowed to associate with Wazrof is a major deal. Not even the top merchants of Vantaroy are permitted to do business with Wazrof directly. On top of that we have been given opportunities to learn from Wazrof's artisans. It has been nothing but a miracle."

"Really. Good to hear."

"It's all thanks to Lecan-sama."

"I haven't done anything."

"I was granted an audience with marquis-sama. The marquis himself in person."

"Hou."

"I was allowed to sit before his excellency's presence and even served tea. That was also when I heard about Lecan-sama's success at conquering Dungeon Palcimo. The subject is apparently a hot topic even among high ranking nobles at the capital. Marquis-sama thus spoke. 'I have been told that you are close to adventurer Lecan, a fiance of my cousin. You may come and go as you please to our residence from here on.'"

"Hou?"

"In other word, I am to not merely be treated as a business partner, relative may be too much, but a close associate might not be out of question. I was also bestowed this medal."

Chaney showed a big golden medal attached to a beautiful silver chain.

"By showing this, my wagon would be granted passage to the very front door of Wazrof Main Mansion."

"You're a friend. I did say that to Manfrey yeah."
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"Lecan-sama."

"It must have been Manfrey's discretion. But, Chaney. You don't gotta worry about me. Do your business as you like."

"I should be the one asking that. Please do not mind about our company, keep following the path you have chosen to tread on."

"Fret not. I live the way I want to."

"Right of course, how could I forgot that."

The two looked at each other and laughed out loud.

"Do Vengeance Permits thing exist?"

"Yes. They do exist. Although they rarely ever get issued. As for the Vengeance Permit Chada townlord issued to this Rintos young man Lecan-sama mentioned, it felt slightly odd to me."

"How come."

"To begin with, disputes between noble houses are to be settled between those noble houses, even if the townlord meddles in to arbitrate, they never issue Vengeance Permits for it. And yet, Vengeance Permits are not usually issued to commoners before everything has been made clear, ordinarily they are to decide whether a vengeance is just or not after the deed has been carried out. In such cases, if the object of vengeance's guilt could not be definitively proven and that the one taking vengeance is clearly not at fault, they will be receive due punishment."

"Make sense."

"With a Vengeance Permit, one is given permission to challenge the other party to a duel. But at the same time, the other party can also turn the table on them. This will afford the object of vengeance time to prepare their hands, so Rintos will be at a disadvantage. Besides, I am unsure how valid is a Vengeance Permit issued by Chada townlord at town of Rotor."

"I see now. It's odd for sure."

"However, were Ceras-dono of Mace Company paid a huge sum to Chada townlord-sama, a Vengeance Permit would not be totally out of question. They could also afford to assemble powerful forces. Although, it would likely greatly offend Rotor townlord-sama."

"Is that so."

"Townlords are even more profit-driven than merchants. And they value their public face much more than any merchant out there. Rotor townlord would lose both his face and gains if he failed to protect merchants he had dealings with."

"Ah, yeah, for sure."

Lecan greatly enjoyed the food and the booze during their chat.

By the time he left, Chubby had disappeared.

Then evening two days later, Lecan dropped by the diner with Chaney and Nirfut already waiting.

"Nirfut. Report the results to Lecan-sama."

"Yes. Lecan-sama. Both Hotan and Nuga are false names."

"What."

"I had always suspected as much. As you must use your real name when you seal a contract under Gods' names, naturally Rotor townlord should be aware of their real names."

"Why didn't they just change their names?"

"Lecan-sama. In this world, you would either lose protection or incur Gods wrath if you change your name without a just cause. Changing one's name is not to be taken lightly at all."

"Really now. So what's those two real names."

"The man who called himself Hotan is Keibun while Hoga is Zeahad. These two have changed their faces as well."

"Change their faces?"

"Yes. I believe it was done through <Morph (Wejapada)> magic."

"No. Neither of those two had mana permanently wrapped on them."

"Lecan-sama. <Morph> is a magic that modify a part of your body. Once the magic has been exercised, there will no trace of mana left."

"Oh right, <Morph> was a Body type, not Mind nor Perception."

"Yes. And it's common to have vestiges of your original face left if you have your face changed through <Morph>. Otherwise, your face could crumble and leave you dying if you make too drastic a change."

"Hou. Really."

"Yes. And Lecan-sama, Hotan is scheduled to present a treasured vase to Rotor townlord-sama in four day time. Later on, when Chaney-sama and Lecan-sama as well as a few attendants come along to greet Rotor townlord-sama, the room you are welcomed in will be decorated with that vase. The servants there will look the other way even if Lecan-sama have that vase <Appraised>."

"Well done. You really got things through."

"You are too kind."

"Chaney. This guy's pretty handy."

As Lecan left the private room, Chubby was having meal in the diner.

He smiled and waved at him. Just as Lecan was going to ignore and pass by Chubby, he changed his mind. Lecan turned to Chubby and walked up to him.

Chubby's face brightened up with expectations.

Lecan looked down at Chubby sitting over his table.

"Chubby."

"Y-yes. Chief."

"You're not needed."

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 7





Nirfut was a spy working under the influential Boldrin Household of Vantaroy town. Seeing the need to gain power to oppose Zack Zaikaz, Boldrin had sent Nirfut to Vouka in a ploy to take over Goncourt Household. Nirfut took the life of Dopus, Prado's grandchild and even made an attempt at Prado's life. However, Norma who happened to be present at the time awakened to <Purification> and saved Prado's life, further, her wisdom and knight Jinga's prowess together succeeded to smash Boldrin's scheme.

They even got Nirfut testified under the temple's <Bell of Truth>, exposing Boldrin's misdeeds. Cassandra, the then head of Boldrin Household was ousted by her sons, stripped of her wealth and forced to retire, they also paid a huge amount of reparation to Goncourt.

Nirfut was supposedly going to be executed then. This matter was left to Vouka's townlord's discretion as he was the one who allowed the use of <Bell of Truth>, Goncourt also agreed to it. Thus, the execution date was scheduled.

Yet the intel Nirfut had on Vantaroy and its neighboring areas proved too valuable to Vouka's townlord. The execution kept getting delayed to fish out more intel from Nirfut. Meanwhile, a messenger of Cassandra came visiting. Cassandra presented most of the very little fortune she had left begging Vouka townlord to spare Nirfut's life.

Crimus was perplexed. Despite being a mere spy, it appeared Cassandra held Nirfut dear. Crimus would like to avoid unnecessary grudge if possible. However, Goncourt had lost their heir and even the present head almost didn't make it. He couldn't think they would agree to have Nirfut's life spared after all this time. Nevertheless, Crimus conveyed the matter to Norma.

Norma consulted it to Prado. Surprisingly enough, Prado left it to Norma to decide without showing any anger.

Norma advised Crimus to revoke the decision to execute Nirfut and to repatriate him to Vantaroy. Crimus gladly accepted this advice.

Chaney was the person entrusted to send Nirfut back to Vantaroy. Because he was in charge of the several businesses whose rights Boldrin transferred to Vouka.

Chaney was shocked to witness the awful life Cassandra was leading when he got there and began sending her all kinds of stuff such as medicine, foodstuff and clothing.

Cassandra eventually died. Nirfut who had been taking care of Cassandra offered his service to Chaney to repay his kindness.

Of course, Chaney is aware how Nirfut is a spy as well as an assassin whom Goncourt loathes. Hence, he didn't take Nirfut back to Vouka and instead left him to gather intel on Vantaroy and adjacent area.

Nirfut possesses a vast amount of knowledge regarding the area. And as Boldrin had business dealings with the towns along the southern part of the capital, he's also well informed about Rotor and Chada to a degree.

"Rumors regarding the misfortune befalling Septema Firm of Chada also reached Vantaroy at the time. From the little information I gathered after the incident, the rapid fall of the firm afterward points to there being a traitor inside the firm, thus a local informant theorized."

"Hou."

"Despite of that, there was no sign of any company or noble house that enjoyed a sudden influx of wealth after the fall of Septema Firm. It was a bizarre event."

"Hou."

"As for Hotan Company and Nuga Company, I have always find them a bit suspect."
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"How so."

"How their origins are clouded in mystery, and how their outward appearances look suspicious."

"Speak clearly."

"I beg your pardon, Lecan-sama. Master."

"What is it."

"I am unable to dig out anything more in this matter without a proper investigation. However, that would cost days and money."

"Chaney. I want all the information you can get. I'll pay."

"Yes, Lecan-sama."

Lecan took a platinum coin and handed it to Nirfut.

"This is front payment. Speak if you need more. I'll spare no expense."

"Much obliged. I shall take Lecan-sama's resolve to heart. Allow me to take that in my custody."

Nirfut put away the platinum coin in his chest pocket.

"Master, if you could please give your permission for my absence."

"Permission granted. Meeting Lecan-sama's demand is of utmost importance now. Is there anything I can do?"

"Then I shall take it up on your offer. Could you have a few words with Rotor townlord-sama? If at all possible, it would be tremendous if he could answer a few questions I pick."

"Very well. Lecan-sama, let's meet again in this establishment evening the day after tomorrow. Nirfut, that's fine with you yes?"

"Yes."

"Sorry for the trouble. Be counting on you."

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